Will Smith Shakes Up Camden with Surprise Lunch Visit

Hollywood superstar Will Smith made a surprise visit to Camden Town last week, enjoying a Caribbean lunch at Roger's Kitchen before his performance at King's Cross. The actor, known for his chart-topping 90s hits and iconic TV role, was in London for the Summertime Ball.

A Taste of Camden

Roger's Kitchen, a popular Caribbean restaurant in Camden Road, received a discreet request for a special order of goat curry. The restaurant's owner, Roger Shakes, was initially unaware of the celebrity diner's identity but noted the usual signs of a high-profile guest, including requests for privacy.

• Will Smith visited Roger's Kitchen in Camden Town.

• He enjoyed a lunch of goat curry.

• The visit preceded his performance with DJ AG at King's Cross.

• Smith was in London for the Summertime Ball.

Celebrity Encounters

Mr. Shakes shared his surprise and delight at meeting the "Fresh Prince of Bel Air" star. "I had a chat with Will and we shook hands, he was very appreciative of the food," he said. Smith reportedly spent time relaxing on the sofa, mentioning he was tired. Roger's Kitchen is a known haunt for other celebrities, including Emeli Sande, Big Zuu, and Jazzy B, with Ashley Walters being a frequent visitor.

The Restaurant's Journey

Roger Shakes, who opened Roger's Kitchen in 2020, comes from a family with a strong culinary background, being the cousin of the late Derek Blake, founder of the renowned Mango Room. Shakes expressed the challenges faced by restaurant owners today, citing high electricity and gas bills, increased produce costs, and the general difficulty of the current economic climate. Despite these hurdles, Roger's Kitchen, which won best Caribbean restaurant in 2023, is preparing to celebrate its fifth anniversary next month.

Sources

• Shake the room! Will Smith enjoys lunch in Camden Town, Camden New Journal.