People
Meet the Dockers: Mimi Ogunbona
Meet the Dockers: Mimi Ogunbona
In this edition of Meet the Dockers, we spoke with Mimi Ogunbona, the driving force behind De King’s Catering. Mimi shared her inspiring journey from a career in mental health nursing to launching a thriving Afro-Caribbean and intercontinental catering business. She even gave us a sneak peek into her exciting plans to open a brand-new restaurant in Royal Albert Wharf. And yes – we couldn’t resist diving into the age-old food debate: Ghanaian or Nigerian Jollof rice, which tastes better?
How did your journey into hospitality begin?
It happened by accident! I used to bring home-cooked food to church gatherings, and the feedback was incredible, people really seemed to enjoy my cooking. Before I knew it, I was getting requests to cater private events. Soon, I found myself booked every Saturday, then Fridays, and eventually Sundays as well.
At the time, I was working as a Mental Health Nurse - a role I held for about seven years. It was rewarding, but the shift work made it tough to balance life as a busy wife and mum of three. Between work, school runs, after-school clubs, church, and family commitments, I was constantly juggling.
Eventually, I decided to leave my full-time job and set up De King's Catering to focus on catering full-time. It was the best decision I ever made. Now I’m able to spend more quality time with my family while doing something I love.
Tell us about De King's Catering
De King’s Catering is all about bringing amazing Afro-Caribbean, and intercontinental flavours to events. Whether its canapes, buffets, staffed food stations or elegant sit-down dinners with full silver service, we cater for weddings, corporate functions, funerals, parties and gatherings of all sizes. The menus are tailored to exactly what our customers want.
I’m the head chef and CEO, and my husband often supports with the logistics so it’s a team effort. We specialise in West African food and offer Caribbean, Afro-Fusion, Chinese, and other intercontinental dishes. I’m Ghanaian, my husband is Nigerian, so our menus are full of authentic flavours and family recipes - the food we love!
What’s next for De King's Catering?
The demand for our catering services has been amazing, and we’ve decided it’s time to take the next big step by opening our very own Afro-Caribbean restaurant.
After a lot of thought and research, we’ve chosen to open in Royal Albert Wharf. It’s an exciting area that’s constantly growing, with new homes, businesses, and a real sense of community. We also noticed a gap in the market, so we saw a great opportunity to bring something new and vibrant to the neighbourhood.
We’ve secured our builders and are working closely with them to transform the space into something special. We’re aiming to open in December so keep your eyes peeled! We can’t wait to welcome customers to De King’s whether dining in at our beautiful new restaurant or grabbing a tasty takeaway.
So, the big question - which Jollof rice tastes better: Ghanaian or Nigerian style?
Haha! Honestly, I can’t choose! Both are really good. Whenever I make either style of jollof rice, everyone’s happy. But don’t just take my word for it. When De King’s Restaurant opens in December come by and try it yourself!
Book De King's Catering
Are you planning an event and need delicious catering? Email: events@dekingsrestaurant.com or call 07983 248 639.
Follow De King's Catering on Instagram for their latest news and updates on the restaurant launch.
Discover Royal Albert Wharf
Royal Albert Wharf is a vibrant riverside development in the Royal Docks, offering contemporary homes, stunning waterside views, excellent transport links and a thriving creative community. The area is home to cafés, a nursery, art studios, restaurants, public spaces, and regular cultural events hosted by groups including Art in the Docks and Bow Arts.
For more information about Royal Albert Wharf and Shared Ownership apartments with NHG Homes visit www.nhghomes.com/developments/shared-ownership-at-royal-albert-wharf#shared
