The Timeline
Seventeen years, one trajectory.
A sequence of decisions, ventures and recognitions that trace a path from community work in London to cultural leadership across two continents. Many projects and public-facing entertainment initiatives were undertaken under the professional identity Phat B.
2006 – 2010
Look Ahead Housing & Care
Administrative Officer and Skills Development Worker supporting vulnerable and homeless individuals across London.
2008
Founded INXS Entertainment
Established the company that would go on to anchor a portfolio of major productions, tours and cultural projects.
2012
D'banj Live UK & Mo'Hits Records Live UK
A defining Afrobeats chapter at HMV Apollo London, bringing African music and diaspora entertainment to one of the UK's major live venues.
2014
Mavin Records UK Tour
Delivered through ASMG under INXS Entertainment UK, with venues including Indigo at The O2 and Manchester Ritz.
Owned and managed 57 Restaurant & Lounge, a premium African hospitality venue combining dining, entertainment and nightlife. Oversaw business operations, customer experience, venue development, staffing, marketing and strategic growth while establishing the venue as a recognised destination within the African diaspora community.
2024
Royal African Medal
Awarded in recognition of contributions to African culture, entertainment and cross-continental enterprise.
2025
Major Cultural Event
Successfully delivered a large-scale cultural celebration bringing together more than 1,000 guests for an evening of entertainment, music, culture and community engagement. The event attracted attendees from across the United Kingdom and demonstrated large-scale event planning, audience development, venue coordination, marketing execution and operational leadership.
Flagship Entrepreneurial Venture
Founder & Managing Director
Role
Docklands, London E16
Location
30+
Team Members
57 Restaurant & Lounge
Founded and led 57 Restaurant & Lounge, one of East London's pioneering premium African dining destinations, located in the Docklands area of London (E16).
Created with a vision to redefine African hospitality in the United Kingdom, the venue quickly established itself as a respected destination for dining, business networking, entertainment and cultural experiences within London's African and multicultural communities.
As Founder and Managing Director, Adebayo Adekunle was responsible for the overall strategy, operations, marketing, customer experience, partnerships and growth of the business. Under his leadership, the venue developed a reputation for quality service, premium dining experiences and strong community engagement.
57 Restaurant & Lounge became a recognised meeting point for professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, community leaders and members of the African diaspora, helping to strengthen cultural connections while showcasing modern African hospitality at a premium level.
The venue welcomed a number of prominent African artists, entertainers and public figures including Adekunle Gold, Falz, Patoranking, Teni and Skales, further cementing its reputation as an influential destination within the African entertainment and cultural landscape in the United Kingdom.
Employing more than 30 members of staff across hospitality, operations and customer service functions, the business demonstrated Adebayo Adekunle's ability to build, lead and manage large teams while maintaining a high standard of service delivery.
The success of 57 Restaurant & Lounge further expanded Adebayo Adekunle's expertise across hospitality, events, entertainment, business development and community engagement — experiences which continue to influence his work as an entrepreneur, investor and cultural ambassador today.
Key Achievements
- 01
Founder and Managing Director of 57 Restaurant & Lounge
- 02
Established one of East London's pioneering premium African dining destinations
- 03
Built and managed a team of more than 30 hospitality professionals
- 04
Hosted and welcomed leading African artists, entertainers and public figures
- 05
Created a recognised cultural and networking destination within the UK African diaspora community
- 06
Successfully combined hospitality, entertainment and community engagement under a single premium brand
- 07
Strengthened Adebayo Adekunle's reputation as an entrepreneur operating across hospitality, culture and entertainment
Venue Footage
Archive footage from 57 Restaurant & Lounge, East London (2017–2020).