My Bristol Favourites: Rema Mukena

Rema Mukena is a presenter, journalist and artist, who is currently an assistant producer for Radio 2, Radio 4 and BBC Sounds, working on various programmes.

Her newest release is the podcast Descendants, which looks into our lives and our pasts and asks how we are connected to slavery

She is a presenter on Reprezent Radio with her own Thursday bi-weekly show launching on Thursday, July 15, and also works with Bristol Museums and the V&A in London to make museums more inclusive for young people.

These are Rema’s top-five Bristol favourites:

Caribbean Croft

Caribbean Croft opened on Stokes Croft in 2017 – photo: Martin Booth

“Caribbean Croft is definitely one of my favourite restaurants in Bristol. If not, my favourite. From the food to the cocktails, they come through every single time. When I first moved to Bristol many moons ago, I struggled to find anywhere where I could eat that really tasted like home and even though I’m not Caribbean, I’m African, a lot of the dishes served at Caribbean Croft overlap with what I would eat at home and also what traditionally is eaten by those of a Congolese heritage. I think I’ve brought nearly every single one of my friends to Caribbean Croft, or at least told them about it! I couldn’t possibly say I have one favourite dish there because it’s all so mouth wateringly delicious.”

The Crofters Rights

“Bristol’s known for the fact it does not lack in the department of providing an absolute banging night out. When talking about some of the best nights out I’ve had in Bristol, it would just feel wrong not to mention the Crofters Rights – a staple of Stokes Croft. From the photobooth to some of the best DJs Bristol has to offer, this intimate venue has played host to some of my favourite club nights in our vibrant city.”

Conham River Park

Conham River Park is part of the Avon Valley Woodlands local nature reserve – photo: Martin Booth

“This idyllic nature spot caught my attention during lockdown. The pandemic really allowed us to appreciate all the green spaces we have access to and this was the place for me. I love spending time here reading, relaxing, going for walks, and even doing a cheeky little photo shoot here and there!”

Royal West of England Academy

The RWA is closed until February 2022 for major refurbishment – photo: Martin Booth

“Being in creative spaces is definitely a safe haven for me. It makes me feel at peace, tranquil and also allows my mind to go to new places. I love being able to analyse art pieces whilst simultaneously gaining inspiration for my own art that I’m creating. Being in lockdown meant that our creativity was capped and finding inspiration was harder than usual. Going into the RWA after being in lockdown for several months made me realise how hungry my mind was for new colours, textures, sounds and shades.”

Wings Diner

https://www.instagram.com/p/CD6cB7PjMCe/

“Boy, if you’re my friend then you know I am always raving on about Wing’s Diner. The BEST wings I have ever had. Not just in Bristol. In my life. They’re so well seasoned, crispy and the portion sizes are just perfect. They are based in Small Bar on King Street and I’m a regular customer there. I genuinely cannot get enough of their wings and fries. Definitely one of the best discoveries I’ve made since living in Bristol.”

Main photo by Bethan Hall

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