Lagos, a bustling city in Nigeria, is known for its delicious African cuisine. From jollof rice to suya and moi moi, Lagos has a wealth of authentic African dishes on offer. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, finding the best African restaurants in Lagos can be a daunting task. In this article, we will explore the top African restaurants in Lagos, including their history, location, and signature dishes.
Best African Restaurants in Lagos
With so many African restaurants to choose from in Lagos, it can be challenging to determine which ones stand out above the rest. However, some restaurants have consistently ranked highly among both locals and tourists.
1. Terra Kulture
Another restaurant that has gained a reputation for its delicious and authentic African cuisine is Terra Kulture. Located on Victoria Island, Terra Kulture offers a range of dishes from different regions of Nigeria, including suya, pepper soup, and ofada rice. The restaurant also hosts cultural events and performances, making it a great place to experience Nigerian culture.
- Type of cuisine: African
- Location: Plot 1376 Tiamiyu Savage St, Victoria Island 106104, Lagos, Nigeria
- Terra Kulture Website
- Phone Number: +234 810 422 4137
- Terra Kulture Instagram Account
2. Mama Cass Restaurant
Mama Cass Restaurant is another popular African restaurant chain in Lagos, with several locations throughout the city. The restaurant serves traditional Nigerian dishes, including boiled plantains, fried yam, and efo riro.
For those looking for a unique dining experience, Sky Restaurant and Lounge is a must-visit. Located in Eko Hotel and Suites, the restaurant provides stunning views of the Lagos skyline while serving up a range of African and international dishes. The restaurant is also known for its signature cocktails and live entertainment.
- Type of cuisine: African
- Location: 4A Oyeleke St, Oregun 100212, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
- Mama Cass Restaurant Website
- Phone Number: +234 704 100 0770
- Mama Cass Restaurant Instagram Account
3. Ghana High Restaurant
If you’re looking for a taste of West African cuisine beyond Nigeria, you might want to check out Ghana High Commission Canteen. Located in Victoria Island, the canteen serves up authentic Ghanaian dishes such as waakye, banku, and jollof rice. The canteen is popular among Ghanaians living in Lagos and is a great place to experience Ghanaian culture and cuisine.
- Type of cuisine: African
- Location: 34 Macarthy Street, Lagos Island 102273, Lagos, Nigeria
- Website: N/A
- Phone Number: +234 816 639 9027
- Instagram: N/A
4. Nkoyo Restaurant
For those looking for a fine dining experience, Nkoyo Restaurant and Bar is a great choice. Located in Ikoyi, the restaurant offers a range of African-inspired dishes, including grilled lamb chops with jollof rice and plantain, and seafood platters featuring prawns, lobster, and crab. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list, making it a great place to celebrate a special occasion.
- Type of cuisine: African
- Location: F8XW+5J2, kilo, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria
- Website: N/A
- Phone Number: +234 810 951 4092
- Nkoyo Restaurant Instagram Account
5. Yellow Chilli
Hot, fresh gourmet meals are served at Yellow Chilli, along with spicily prepared regional and pan-African specialties. The restaurant’s goal is to conserve and emphasize the best aspects of Nigerian culinary culture through a unique eating experience.
- Type of cuisine: African Gourmet food/Contemporary Nigerian Cuisine.
- Location: Yellow Chilli, Bishop Oluwole Street, 27 Oju Olobun Cl, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
- Yellow Chilli Website
- Phone Number: +2348141130890
- Yellow Chilli Instagram Account
6. NOK by Alara
At NOK, they reimagine traditional African dishes and give familiar dishes a modern touch. NOK is a cozy dining area featuring contemporary art and design from across the continent, hidden behind a lovely bamboo-framed garden. NOK aspires to provide you with a unique eating experience that highlights the different flavors from all around the African continent under the direction of executive chef Pierre Thiam, a Senegalese chef located in New York.
- Type of cuisine: African
- Location: NOK by Alara, 12A Akin Olugbade St, Victoria Island 106104, Lagos, Nigeria
- NOK by Alara Website
- Phone Number: N/A
- NOK by Alara Instagram Account
7. L’afric Restaurant and Bar
You can taste the freshness of the ingredients at L’Afric. Service is excellent, and food is served in a cozy setting. Although it is situated in a busy area, the place is properly prepared for your party to chat in a silent setting. Prices are reasonable and accessible to everyone.
- Type of cuisine: African
- Location: L’afric Restaurant and Bar, 1 Adeola Hopewell St, Victoria Island 106104, Lagos, Nigeria
- Website: N/A
- Phone Number: +234 813 005 3886
- L’afric Restaurant and Bar Instagram Account
8. Tilapia & tinz African Signature Restaurant
The goal of Tilapia&Tinz, an exclusive restaurant with an African theme, is to promote a culture of good eating and relaxation that promotes love and lengthens life. With a menu that features a variety of seafood, white meat, and other dishes prepared according to African traditional cuisine.
- Type of cuisine: African
- Location: Tilapia & tinz African Signature Restaurant., 11 Oduduwa Cres, Ikeja GRA 101233, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
- Tilapia & tinz African Signature Restaurant Website
- Phone Number: +234 808 888 8235
- Tilapia & tinz African Signature Restaurant Instagram Account
9. 100 Hours
On Awolowo Road in Ikoyi, there is a fantastic restaurant and bar called 100 Hours. Retro, calming, and elegant music and atmosphere are present. The meal is excellent, and the drinks are refreshing and reasonably priced. The staff is friendly and accommodating. After a long day at work, you will find here a quiet place to relax with affordable food and beverages and cool music.
- Type of cuisine: African
- Location: 100 Hours, 100 Awolowo Rd, Ikoyi 106104, Lagos, Nigeria
- 100 Hours Website
- Phone Number: +234 818 680 6912
- 100 Hours Facebook Page
10. Zolene Restaurant
In Zolene, you will find an unassuming eatery serving hearty stews, classic rice dishes, and shellfish. Taste authentic African dishes in a very cozy ambiance.
- Type of cuisine: African
- Location: Zolene Restaurant, 26 Mekunwen rd, off Macpherson Ave, Ikoyi 101233, Lagos, Nigeria
- Website: N/A
- Phone Number: +234 818 883 0011
- Zolene Restaurant Instagram Account
Closing Thoughts on the Best African Restaurants in Lagos
Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking to explore authentic African cuisine, Lagos is the perfect destination. From street food vendors to high-end restaurants, Lagos has a diverse range of African eateries to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we have highlighted some of the best African restaurants in Lagos, from the oldest to the most popular, providing you with a comprehensive guide to the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best African Restaurants in Lagos
How many African restaurants are in Lagos?
Before we delve into the best African restaurants in Lagos, it’s essential to understand the sheer number of options available. Currently, there are over 150 African restaurants in Lagos, with more popping up every day. From small family-owned eateries to five-star hotels, Lagos has it all. However, with so many choices, it can be difficult to know which restaurants offer the best food and service.
One of the most popular African restaurants in Lagos is Terra Kulture. Located on Victoria Island, Terra Kulture is known for its delicious traditional Nigerian dishes and its commitment to promoting Nigerian culture. The restaurant also hosts live music performances, plays, and art exhibitions, making it a cultural hub in Lagos.
Another must-visit African restaurant in Lagos is Yellow Chilli. With locations in both Victoria Island and Ikeja, Yellow Chilli offers a modern twist on traditional African cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features dishes from all over the continent, including jollof rice, grilled tilapia, and peri-peri chicken. The sleek and stylish decor also makes Yellow Chilli a popular spot for a night out with friends.
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Nkoyo is the perfect choice. Located in Ikoyi, Nkoyo offers a fine dining experience with a focus on West African cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features dishes like goat curry, grilled snapper, and plantain fritters. The elegant decor and attentive service make Nkoyo a great choice for a special occasion.
But it’s not just Nigerian cuisine on offer in Lagos. There are also a number of Ethiopian restaurants, like Zerofour and Addis Ababa, serving up delicious injera and spicy stews. And for those looking for a taste of North Africa, Marrakech is a popular spot for Moroccan cuisine, with dishes like tagine and couscous on the menu.
Overall, with its wide variety of African restaurants, Lagos is a foodie’s paradise. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Nigerian dishes or want to try something new like Ethiopian or Moroccan cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Where to find the best African food in Lagos?
If you’re looking for the best African food in Lagos, you won’t have to look too far. Lagos is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural heritage, and this is reflected in its diverse cuisine. From traditional Nigerian dishes to modern fusion cuisine, Lagos has it all.
Some of the top African restaurants in Lagos can be found in the popular areas of Victoria Island, Lekki, and Ikeja. However, some hidden gems can also be found in other parts of the city. It’s essential to do your research and read reviews before deciding on a restaurant to visit.
If you’re looking for an authentic Nigerian dining experience, Terra Kulture, located on Victoria Island, is a must-visit. The restaurant is known for its cultural ambiance and authentic Nigerian cuisine. The restaurant’s decor features traditional Nigerian art and artifacts, creating a unique and immersive dining experience. The menu features classic Nigerian dishes like jollof rice, egusi soup, and pounded yam.
Another popular spot is Yellow Chilli, which has locations in both Lekki and Victoria Islands. The restaurant features a contemporary fusion menu, combining traditional African flavors with international dishes. The restaurant’s ambiance is modern and stylish, making it a popular spot for young professionals and tourists alike. The menu features dishes like suya-spiced chicken skewers, plantain and black bean tacos, and jollof risotto.
For those looking for a more casual dining experience, street food is a great option. Lagos is known for its numerous street vendors, selling everything from African snacks like puff puff to grilled meat and fish. Some popular street food markets include the Obalende Market and the Oshodi Market. These markets are a great place to sample a variety of local dishes and experience the vibrant street food culture of Lagos.
In conclusion, Lagos is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of African cuisine to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a casual street food snack, Lagos has something for everyone. So next time you’re in Lagos, be sure to explore the city’s rich culinary scene and discover some of the best African food the city has to offer.
What is the oldest restaurant in Lagos?
Many African restaurants in Lagos have a rich history, dating back several years. Lagos is a city that is known for its vibrant and diverse culinary scene, and there are many restaurants that have been around for decades, serving up delicious meals to generations of Lagosians.
One of the oldest and most iconic restaurants in Lagos is the Yellow Chili restaurant. The first location opened its doors in 2004, and since then, it has become a beloved institution in the city. Known for its delicious food, warm ambiance, and impeccable service, the Yellow Chili has expanded to multiple locations throughout the city, making it easier for Lagosians to enjoy their favorite meals.
But the Yellow Chili is not the only restaurant with a long and storied history in Lagos. Another popular African restaurant with a rich heritage is the Bungalow Restaurant. Located on Victoria Island, the Bungalow has been around since the early 20th century and has maintained its charm and authenticity over the years. The menu features traditional Nigerian dishes, including eba, amala, and ofada rice, and the restaurant is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
But there are many other restaurants in Lagos that have been around for decades, each with its own unique story and character. For example, the Terra Kulture restaurant is a cultural center that celebrates Nigerian art, music, and cuisine and has been a fixture in Lagos since 2003. The restaurant serves a variety of traditional Nigerian dishes, as well as modern fusion cuisine that incorporates international flavors and techniques.
Another iconic Lagos restaurant is the Sky Restaurant and Lounge, located on the 5th floor of the Eko Hotels & Suites. The restaurant offers stunning views of the Lagos skyline, as well as a diverse menu of international and Nigerian dishes.
Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Nigerian cuisine or international flavors, Lagos has a restaurant to suit your taste. And with so many restaurants with rich histories and unique stories, dining out in Lagos is not just about the food – it’s also a chance to explore the city’s vibrant culture and heritage.
