We’re looking forward to introducing you to Tayo Ola. Check out our conversation below.
Tayo, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Yes looking back at my first dinners I started back in Los Angeles and seeing where our dinners are now. It brings joy to my heart
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Chef Tayo Ola, founder and executive chef of the Ebi-Ayo Supper Club. “Ebi” means family and “Ayo” means joy in Yoruba, and that’s really the heart of what I do, bringing people together around the table to celebrate culture, community, and connection through food.
Ebi-Ayo started as a pop-up dinner series and has grown into a full residency, blending my Nigerian heritage with Italian techniques I discovered while traveling abroad. What makes it unique is that it’s not just about dining, it’s about experiencing a story on a plate. Every course carries a piece of my journey, from Abeokuta, Nigeria to the U.S. and Italy, and the dishes are designed to spark conversation, nostalgia, and community.
We’ve had the honor of sharing this with guests across Los Angeles, New York, and beyond, and now we’re building towards our next chapter with a restaurant residency in New York City. Right now, I’m also working on expanding partnerships, exploring retail concepts like gelato and spice blends, and continuing to grow this platform as a space for cultural exchange, creativity, and joy.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad and mom. I see where I get the work ethic, dedication and creativity from.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self: trust the journey and be patient with yourself. Every setback, every twist, and every detour is shaping you into the person you’re meant to be. The dreams you carry are valid, and the passion you have for food, and storytelling will one day create something bigger than you imagined. Keep going, you’re exactly where you need to be.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
My older sister. Whenever we spend time together, our conversations are full of ideas she throws my way. Even if I don’t act on them immediately, I often find myself reflecting on them later. Her perspective always sparks new thoughts and helps me see things in a fresh light.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people will say that Tayo gave his all to everything he touched, whether in the kitchen, in his relationships, or in his community. That I led with passion, love, and authenticity, and that I always showed up fully as myself. Most importantly, I’d want people to remember that I was there for them that I created spaces where they felt seen, valued, and cared for, and that my work and my presence brought joy and connection to their lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ebiayosupperclub.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chef.tayo/
- Other: Brand instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/ebiayosupperclub
Food Blog: Dinnerwithtayo.com
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