New restaurant Poto-Poto marries African and European flavours to great effect, writes Richard Abbey.

It had been open barely a week on the day I visited but the charm of Poto-Poto, a new African-European fusion restaurant, seems to have already made an impression on the people of Doncaster. Just a few tables along from me was a lady already making a return visit, requesting the same dish she had enjoyed previously (it was seafood linguine in case you were wondering).

“Our opening weekend was fantastic, we couldn’t have asked for any more,” said owner and chef Natacha Elenga, who grew up in Belgium but has roots tracing back to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Marriage brought her to South Yorkshire and with it the ambition of opening her own restaurant.

“We’re not just serving food,” Natacha continued. “We’re serving a story – one of connection, culture, and the beauty of blending different worlds. At Poto-Poto, we believe in bringing people together over great food, and we’re excited to share that with our community.”

After honing her craft at the renowned CERIA University in Brussels, where she studied culinary arts, Natacha spent over 15 years perfecting her skills and experimenting with an array of global flavours. Her experiences and passion for blending traditional African ingredients with European culinary techniques culminated in the creation of Poto-Poto – a one-of-a-kind restaurant that celebrates her journey and heritage.

The name “Poto-Poto” itself is rich in history. Derived from both Congolese and Senegalese languages, it refers to a town once known for its role as a place of exchange between African and European cultures. This unique blend of influences is reflected in the restaurant’s diverse and exciting menu, which is a perfect harmony of African vibrancy and European elegance.

Poto-Poto takes pride in offering a menu full of bold, mouthwatering dishes that will appeal to a variety of palates. From breakfast to dinner, each plate is a reflection of Natacha’s expertise and passion. 

“It’s the food of my heritage, where I grew up and where I live now,” Natacha. “It’s something new for Doncaster.”

The restaurant, at 30 Hall Gate, opens from 9am to 4pm for breakfast and lunch and then from 5pm serves an evening dinner menu. 

The prime city centre location encourages plenty of curious glances from people walking past; step in side and you’ll be impressed by the stunning décor. A small bar area at the front leads into a light-filled restaurant dominated by multiple ‘living’ walls and neon signs, African-inspired artworks and a contemporary black and white checkered floor. The peacock-coloured tables add further modern touches, which are softened by teal velvet seating. An open kitchen at the rear of the space offers a touch of theatre and allows those fragrant, spicy smells to drift tantalisingly in your direction.

Guests can indulge in a variety of dishes, such as the comforting okra, the flavourful suya, succulent lobster linguini, perfectly cooked lamb chops, tender fillet steak, and crispy fried plantain, to name just a few. Every dish is crafted with the finest ingredients, ensuring that each bite is as rich and satisfying as the culture it comes from.

The daytime menu mainly offers lighter options and alongside the breakfast options you can choose from sandwiches, wraps, pizza and pasta options. Diners can choose from West African-influenced Suya pizza, made with suya-spiced beef and a peanut seasoning; South African ‘Bunny Chow’ pizza, made with curry-flavoured chicken and pickled carrots, onions and coriander; and a Kenyan Sukuma pizza. 

But it’s in the evening that you can really enjoy the best of Poto-Poto’s fusion flavours. A great place to start is with one of their platters, which can be made for two people (£45) or four people (£90). Diners can choose between lamb chops, chicken skewers, chicken wings or prawns which come with fried plantain, jollof rice and salad. Flavour, as you may expect, is the big star with warming, spicy flavours prevalent throughout. 

Before you get to the platters, it’s also with considering the other options. There’s a good selection of appetisers, including tomatoes stuffed with shrimp, grilled okra and golden plantain. Traditional African soups and stews, including Gombo and Garri, feature and there’s also a good selection of grilled meat and fish dishes as well as pasta.

To complement the food is a good drinks selection; draught beers include Poto-Poto’s own house pilsner and there’s also ciders, cocktails, mocktails spirits and wines as well as soft drinks.

Whether you’re popping in for a quick breakfast, gathering with friends for lunch, or enjoying a leisurely dinner, Poto-Poto offers an inviting environment where every meal becomes an experience. Repeat custom so soon speaks highly about the quality of the food and flavours on offer.

Poto-Poto

30 Hall Gate, Doncaster, DN1 3NL

Tel: 01302 321113

www.potopoto.co.uk