About Us
ILE MEANS HOME | HOME IS WEST AFRICA.
PLEASE JOIN US FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE CULINARY EXPERIENCE WHERE EVERY DISH TELLS THE STORY OF OUR HOME.
The Private Dining Room
After achieving remarkable success in Nigeria, Chef Tolu Erogbogbo, known as Chef Erosand The Billionaire Chef, embarked on a global mission in 2017 to elevate Nigerian and West African cuisine. He traveled through Dubai, Europe, and the United States, hosting culinary gatherings in rented homes where he celebrated cultural growth before moving on. The pandemic temporarily halted his travels, allowing him time to plan. In 2021, Eros resumed his journey, intending to visit three U.S. cities but expanded to thirteen dinners across seven cities in three months, finally finding a new home in Los Angeles, drawn by its vibrant culture and abundant fresh ingredients.
Now based in LA, Chef Eros has launched the ILÉ Private Dining Room, creating a unique dining experience that combines theatrical storytelling with exquisite culinary presentations at a communal chef’s table. Termed “Dinner Theatre,” these dinners offer an immersive journey where each course narrates a part of West African culture. The concept of ILÉ, which means “home” in Yoruba, aims to offer a genuine taste of West African cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques to reflect Chef Eros’s creative journey in the industry.
CHEF TOLU EROS
Chef Tolu “Eros” Erogbogbo’s culinary journey reflects his deep Nigerian roots and entrepreneurial spirit, beginning with his early ventures into seasoned and marinated chicken in Nigeria. His passion for cooking and solid business acumen led him to open his first restaurant at 21, eventually expanding into catering, bakeries, and nightlife. These ventures allowed him to share his vision of West African cuisine on a broader stage.
In 2021, Chef Eros relocated to Los Angeles to further his mission, quickly becoming a prominent figure in the local food scene. He opened ILÄ–Bistro in Culver City and catered at major events like the Coachella Valley Music Festival, gaining media recognition from CNN and Forbes. Additionally, he launched the ILÉ Private Dining Room, offering an exclusive culinary experience that blends traditional West African dishes with modern culinary techniques. Known as the ‘Billionaire Chef,’ his clientele has included international dignitaries, demonstrating his ability to transcend cultural boundaries with food. His contributions extend to social causes, partnering with (RED) to combat HIV/AIDS. Chef Eros’ career illustrates how culinary art can bridge cultures and inspire communities worldwide.
His Culinary Philosophy
Chef Eros describes his culinary style as "Authentic West African with a modern twist" a philosophy that allows him the creative freedom to innovate on generations-old dishes by adding contemporary flair and beautifully plating each course, acknowledging the modern adage that "the camera eats first."
This approach not only pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of West Africa but also caters to the aesthetic and gastronomic expectations of today's diner. With a background that spans across continents, Chef Eros has successfully bridged the gap between traditional West African cuisine and the global culinary scene, creating an immersive dining experience that celebrates the essence of West African culture, storytelling, and innovation at ILÉ Private Dining Room.