Down in Peckham, you’ll find two sisters who are working hard to bring the flavours of their upbringing and culture to the tables of London. Jess and Jo Edun are The Flygerians and their mission is to “introduce Nigerian cuisine to the forefront of the food market”. Since landing on the scene in 2016 they’ve worked everywhere from street food stands to pop-ups and pub residencies as well as serving food at the likes of Uber HQ and Dr Martens. Famously, they turned what was supposed to be a six-month stay at Peckham’s The Old Nun’s Head pub into a five-year stint. Now, they’ve got their own spot in Peckham and a cookbook. But they’re not done yet!
Hot off the back of chatting with the likes of Athinagoras Kostakos, Nathaniel Mortley (AKA Natty Can Cook), and Tarell McIntosh, we had a chance for some ‘Kitchen Chatter’ with Jess and Jo Edun – AKA The Flygerians:
What inspired you to become a chef, and who are your biggest culinary influences that have shaped your cooking style?
We were inspired by our beautiful Grandma. She was the pillar of her Hackney community and used to host cookouts and BBQs for her church and strangers that became family. She taught us that no matter your race, gender or sexual creed food should be shared with all, with love. She was a remarkable woman, who made us into the legendary chefs and Nigerian food pioneers that we are today.
Everyone eats at our table; we also have made it our mission to make Nigerian food inclusive. Vegans? We got you huns! Pescatarian? Grab a chair! Meat eaters? Don’t delay your beef suya is already cooked babe!
What are the biggest challenges and rewards of being a young chef in London?
Our motto is to chop life before life chops you! Which means ‘chop’ to eat but also to enjoy life to the fullest before you’re gone, because tomorrow isn’t promised or guaranteed.
A big challenge is juggling world domination, daytime jobs, and writing our cookbook whilst still trying to gym, have full enjoyment with our partners, running an ‘only way is up business and seeing those who are important to us. Jo is an occupational therapist still working full time for the NHS, and I (Jess) have a law degree and worked in corporate events as an events manager and as an EA to an EVP (Executive Assistant to an Executive Vice President) – I now work full time for The Flygerians.
Running a successful business and brand built from the ground up is a marathon not a sprint but when you love something as much as we love being The Flygerians and putting Nigerian food at the forefront of the British food market, nothing is more rewarding than seeing life change, challenging perceptions of Nigerian food, revolutionising it and the warming people’s souls with great food. We have produced a cookbook that honours our Grandma’s legacy and this has been life-changing for us.
How have media representations influenced public perception of chefs?
Media representation has changed the game for chefs as it spotlights outstanding chefs doing sensational things within the industry and contributes to sharing our culture with the world. Nigerian food is the UK’s best-kept secret and there is nothing more beautiful than seeing people from all walks of life cooking recipes from our book or coming to eat at our restaurant. It’s broken down the boundaries and connects people on an indescribably beautiful level.
How has the London culinary scene changed over the past few years? And, where do you see it heading?
We are seeing a massive and incredible shift to people more open and willing to try new things. Our first-ever residency was in The Old Nun’s Head pub cooking Nigerian food, managed originally by Nick and now Allie (both legends btw). We were told by so many people that it wouldn’t go down well as people weren’t used to Nigerian food, but Nick & Allie believed in us! We had sold-out days pretty much every night we popped up. A 6-month residency turned into 5 beautiful years.
This is why we say to anyone wanting to become a chef to believe in yourself and take the risk because good food is undeniable, and the masses will come. Keep pushing and thriving. Nothing is beyond your reach. We hope it’s heading in the direction that will unite cultures and bring joy because we all deserve this harmony and food is a great way to start. Whether you’re cooking along at home or dining in our restaurant at Peckham Palms – at The Flygerians we want you to feel part of our family.
Can you share a memorable experience or anecdote from your time working in London’s kitchens?
One of our most memorable times was filming ITV’s Peckham’s Finest at The Old Nun’s Head pub and dancing around the pub always with our babes Allie. They really were a joy to work with and we are blessed to still know them and count them as someone who always champions and supports us.
Another thing we love about being a chef in London is the sensational people you meet that make a positive impact in your life. Our advice is always be authentic and speak people’s names into rooms they are yet to enter. We are grateful for where we have been and where we will go. We are shooting for the stars!
You can find The Flygerians cooking up “vibrant and flavorful Nigerian dishes” at their eponymous restaurant in Peckham. Find it at Peckham Palms, 14 Bournemouth Close, SE15 4PB. The nearest station is Peckham Rye. They also have a cookbook, The Flygerians Cookbook, available wherever you buy your books.
Make a booking to try out their food here.