We’re excited to share that a new Afro-lounge, featuring a restaurant, bar and event space, is set to open at Castle Quarter this summer — the first of its kind in the East of England.
Las Gidi will open at 114 Timberhill, just outside one of our entrances, bringing African cuisine, music and culture to the heart of the city. The venue is currently undergoing renovation, with an opening date not yet set, but likely to be in July.
Taking over the former Silhouette restaurant and cocktail bar across two floors, Las Gidi will be a new lounge with an Afro-modern appeal. As well as a restaurant, bar and live music, the venue will also have private hire areas and a balcony, offering a new cultural and entertainment destination for Norwich city centre, and creating 20 hospitality jobs.
The name Las Gidi is a popular slang term for Lagos, Nigeria’s largest city, which is widely regarded as the commercial, fashion and entertainment capital of the African continent. The owners say they hope the space will offer an experience of the vibrant, colourful lifestyle of Lagos and the continent.
Uzo Joe-Ihedoro, Ene Apeh and Charles Mokwe are directors of Few Good Men, the business behind the launch. The trio have a proven track record in bringing the spirit of Africa to Norfolk, staging AfriFest East, the largest Afrocentric summer event in East Anglia, at Chapelfield Gardens every August. Since starting out in 2024, the event has attracted more than 5,000 people, becoming one of the city’s most popular outdoor summer events.
Charles Mokwe, Director of Few Good Men, said: “We’re excited to be opening a permanent African music, food and entertainment venue in the city centre, which will be the first of its kind in the East of England. Las Gidi is about bringing people together to enjoy bold flavours, great music and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects Africa’s legendary hospitality.
We can’t wait to welcome Las Gidi to our growing and eclectic mix of tenants. It promises to bring a vibrant new restaurant, lounge and events to the heart of Norwich, and we’re looking forward to seeing it open soon.
More details about Las Gidi’s events programme, menu, opening times and launch date will be shared soon.
