London, UK. October 16, 2024.
It’s official – I’ve signed Heads of Terms on my FIRST restaurant premises! I’m feeling excited, nervous, anxious, and thrilled all at once – but most of all, I’m ready to take this huge step forward! 
The journey to this point has been incredible, with so many twists and turns. But now, the dream of sharing the vibrant flavours of Sierra Leone in my very own space is becoming real. There are still hurdles ahead, but I can’t wait to bring you all along for this exciting new chapter!
For those who don’t know, I was born and raised in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Some of my fondest memories involve my childhood fascination with age-old African recipes, discovering fresh, local ingredients, and cooking for friends and family. My enduring love for the taste of home has taken me to this point.
Looking back, there have been so many moments that shaped this path. A dear friend summed it up when she said, "From playcook to culinary placemaking playbook, connecting people, planet, and place." I started with play cooking in a broken-down car as a child in Tengbeh Town, Freetown. In 2006, my husband encouraged me to draft my first early Sierra Leonean cookbook, inspired by the food we shared at home.
After having my two children, I realised my heart wasn’t in finance and accounting—I wanted to follow my passion for food. In 2017, I catered my cousin’s wedding in our Kent back garden, and that’s when Maria Bradford Kitchen was born. I began posting my food on Instagram, and slowly, my following grew. From there, I expanded into drinks and sauces, culinary school @leithseducation and eventually, Maria Bradford Kitchen evolved into Shwen Shwen. Thanks to the encouragement of my wonderful Sierra Leonean literary agent, I pursued a publishing deal, and in 2023, my debut cookbook Sweet Salone was published by @quadrillebooks
This journey has had its fair share of ups and downs, moments of doubt, and challenges, but I’ve stayed consistent and determined. My passion for what I do keeps me going, and now, as I prepare to open my first restaurant in 2025.
Wish me luck, and thank you for your constant support and encouragement!!! Salone to the world and back!! This is my calling and I love every part it!
