ArkCleoRich African Kitchen
About This Spot
Nestled in a quiet strip mall just off North Academy Boulevard, ArkCleoRich African Kitchen greets you with a gentle warmth that feels like stepping into an inviting home away from home. The atmosphere is intimate and unhurried, where the hum of soft traditional music underpins the comfortable, clean surroundings. It’s a place where curiosity about new flavors is met with genuine hospitality, and each visit unfolds like a shared discovery among friends.
The moment you settle in, the attentive staff draw you into a culinary journey that’s far more than just a meal. Here, the food is woven with stories and traditions—dishes that carry the essence of African kitchens, rich in layers of spice, texture, and heart. Whether it’s the comforting, aromatic embrace of a hearty soup or the satisfying harmony of grilled tilapia paired with sweet, fried plantains, each bite invites you to savor something deeply rooted yet refreshingly vibrant.
What makes dining at ArkCleoRich especially memorable is the care extended beyond the plate. You’re encouraged to explore new tastes at your own pace, with warm recommendations and even unexpected tastings that reflect the pride and generosity behind this kitchen. The ritual of enjoying these dishes—often communal and hands-on, like washing your hands before digging into fufu—adds an authentic connection to the experience, evoking a sense of gathering rather than just eating out.
Despite its tucked-away location, this gem breathes life and culture into everyday routines. It’s a spot that celebrates the joy of sharing bold, soulful food alongside easy conversation and the unspoken comfort of feeling welcome. For those venturing into African cuisine for the first time or returning to familiar favorites, ArkCleoRich African Kitchen offers a grounded, heartfelt dining experience rooted in genuine human moments.
What’s Available Here
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Outdoor seating
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Kerbside pickup
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No-contact delivery
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Delivery
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Fireplace
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Sport
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Solo dining
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Assistive hearing loop
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Wheelchair-accessible toilet
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Comfort food
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Healthy options
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Small plates
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Catering
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Counter service
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Gender-neutral toilets
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Toilet
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Wi-Fi
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Wi-Fi
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Casual
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Cosy
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Quiet
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Trendy
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Family friendly
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Groups
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LGBTQ+ friendly
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Locals
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Tourists
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Transgender safe space
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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Has changing table(s)
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
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Free of charge street parking
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Free parking lot
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Parking
Location & Hours
| Monday | Closed | |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Friday | 11:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
| Saturday | 11:00 AM - 08:30 PM | |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM - 08:30 PM |
Keyava Hyde 28 Dec 2025
Food was delicious. The owner gave us a soup to try for free. Our me was wonderful. The music was so enjoyable as we ate and grooves along. If you’ve never had African food before, start here. You won’t regret it.
Erianna Sinclair 21 Dec 2025
Very clean and ambient! Service is great. The guy who served me explained all the dishes I asked about and even added on dishes he wanted me to try FOR FREE! I tried the peanut soup, I tried chicken, grilled tilapia and the yam fufu. They give you warm water and a bowl to wash your hands. Very authentic and the food was 10/10. 100% will be back!
Terry 21 Nov 2025
Just had a chance to enjoy this restaurant today. Amazing food, stylish decorations, and nice owner. Per his recommendations, we ordered a fish, a chicken rice, and a goat kebab. I gotta say the goat is the best of I’ve ever had in America, tasty and flavorful, I come from a region from China that is famous for its lamb but this goat definitely impressed me, I even added another one to go.This restaurant must deserve higher popularity. Try it, they won’t let you down.
Jazmyne Anaya 10 Nov 2025
I had an amazing experience from the moment I walked into this restaurant to when we left. We were warmly greeted by amazing staff who were very prompt and helpful. We had never had African food before and our server really helped us decide what food was best for us. The flavor was so unique and so bold. Not one thing that we ordered disappointed us. The restaurant was clean and smelt amazing. I would definitely come back here again!!!
Keith Marcantel 31 Oct 2025
Although in a mostly closed strip mall, the restaurant is decorated nicely. I ate there before going to nearby Loonies Comedy Corner. I had grilled tilapia with plantains. Both were excellent! The tilapia had a nice, spicy coating. There were also mild and spicy side sauces to add more flavor, which was not needed. The host/ owner was very attentive and explained the different foods, as did the wait staff. It is owned by a active duty soldier, formerly from Africa.
Anaie Beltran 24 Oct 2025
It was mine and my hubby’s first time trying an African restaurant here in the springs , and they did not disappoint at all! The service was so nice, and the food was hot and fresh. The food was filling but not in a way that will make you feel slumped afterwards, it was just the right amount for a full belly. The flavors were so nice and would definitely recommend for everyone to try and try again.
En Sabah Nur 06 Oct 2025
Upon entering, the restaurant is beautiful. From the wallpaper to the ceilings to the art. Staff was welcoming and gave great recommendations. We ordered the goat soup which was delicious. The only downside was that the goat meat in the soup was fatty. We ordered the fufu. It was odd but good. It has the consistency of mochi and the taste of mashed potatoes. We also ordered the rice and goat. In this dish the goat was good and not as fatty. The rice was good. We ordered a side of rice that was a bit dry for my taste. Overall, I would recommend this restaurant and will return. A+