Shaka Zulu a music destination

Shaka Zulu – the name alone conjures up South African imagery, smells and tastes.

Lavishly decked out in South African furnishings, this huge 27,000 square foot venue features warrior statues, a champagne bar and a cocktail lounge, as well as a traditional braai restaurant. The walls and ceilings are adorned with stunning wooden murals, giving an exotic and extravagant feel to proceedings.

Given the unique surroundings, the venue has featured prominently in the regional and national press, as well as in various TV programmes. And the clientele -- ever since Amy Winehouse & The King opened the old Camden Lock venue 4 years ago – now includes Nicole Scherzinger, Nancy Dell'Olio, Jo Wood, *Emeli Sandé*, The stunning Michelle Keenan and her guest (husband to be) Mark Wright and Bruno Mars, to name but a few. And just recently, singer-songwriter FiL Straughan attracted a sell-out crowd to this unusual venue for a Luther Vandross tribute. In light of the event's success, the restaurant now holds a Soul Night each Thursday.

But this is a venue capable of hosting various adventures. It is ideal for clubbing, romantic nights out, or for a few cheeky cocktails. Award-winning mixologist Tony Safqi ‎has created the most amazing cocktails including his latest creation the Buffalo Meat - Hidden Treasures - cocktail made with Buffalo Whiskey and Buffalo Consomme. With my visit I had "Burning Red", a fiery hot mixture of Santa Teresa Claro Rum, raspberry puree, lime juice and red chillies! For something a little more subtle, "Angel Face" is a rustic and delicious blend of Klipdrift brandy, fig, fresh lemon and apple juice. Having imbibed a few drinks, the dance floor, host to frequent live performances, awaits. At its core, though,The award-winning chef Stephen Boucher is now at the helm and Shaka Zulu is all about its mouthwatering menus on offer.

The crocodile offers plenty of bite, the springbok is the 'fast food' option, or maybe you could earn your South African stripes by tasting some zebra. I started my experience with some crocodile cigars (lightly-marinated crocodile meat in spring rolls) before tasting the gorgeous springbok carpaccio (loin lightly marinated in olive oil and black pepper). We then tucked in to a gorgeous selection of biltong, *droëwors* sliced beef and chilli snap sticks.

Having tickled our taste buds, we then went the whole hog. We ordered the King Shaka Game Board – feauring springbok, chilli *boerewors*, ostrich and zebra with potatoes, confit tomato and red win jus. This succulent smorgasbord of South African treats was supremely satisfying, and washed down with two bottles of sexy Shiraz from the extensive wine list, as recommended by the attentive and insightful waiter.

My Shaka Zulu dining experience was certainly a night to remember. The staff are lovely and are always at hand to guide you through the stunning food and drinks menu's. We left the restaurant stuffed as a greedy crocodile and buzzing from the atmospheric experience. Remember: if you hear the bongo drums playing upstairs, don't be afraid – get off your seat and start dancing with the African entertainers.