Actress Anita Joseph turns “Akara” seller

Anita Joseph (Nigerian Actress)

Nollywood actress Anita Joseph has demonstrated remarkable resilience to sustain her career and livelihood. Leveraging her fame and charismatic persona, she has successfully navigated various ventures, even going so far as to sell akara (traditional bean cakes) to supplement her income—a move that has only endeared her further to the public.

While this might sound like a desperate survival tactic in Nigeria’s tough economic climate, Joseph revealed to Potpourri that her new venture is actually a labor of love—the realization of a long-held passion.

Rest assured, the actress hasn't set up a makeshift stall on a random street corner. Instead, she has redefined the akara business with premium flair. Operating as a proper restaurateur, she recently launched "Eko Akara Bistro," a chic, upscale spot located right in the heart of Lagos.

“I bought the restaurant from someone. The first attraction was the name, then the Akara. Oh My God (OMG),” she gleefully told Potpourri. “So when they wanted to sell, I grabbed the offer.”

“I always make Akara every two days at home. It was quite stressful, so seeing where to get it anytime, even on Sundays, got me very excited,” she added to assert her love for her latest business venture.

Don’t let the name fool you; Joseph emphasized that Eko Akara Bistro is far from a one-dish wonder. The menu boasts a diverse lineup of local and continental favorites, ranging from burgers, sandwiches, and shawarma to hearty pepper soup, catfish, and grilled turkey. Guests can also indulge in American or African breakfast spreads, ewa agoyin, and comforting yam, plantain, or potato porridges.

This upscale eatery marks another bold business move for the actress, who continues to expand her footprint beyond Nollywood by tapping into Nigeria’s booming food and hospitality industry.