As you probably have noticed by now, there is a little bit of everywhere in Lagos. China, Lebanon, India, and many other cultures live in this Nigerian city through its cuisine. This means, no matter what you crave, there is probably somewhere to go. And if among your guilty pleasures, Mexican is one of them, then don’t miss out on this list of the best Mexican restaurants in Lagos. We have listed 10 of the most popular and delicious ones, offering info on their locations, types of cuisine, websites, social media links, phone numbers, and a short description of each. So, as Mexicans say: Vamos!
Â
Â
Best Mexican Restaurants in Lagos
Â
1. Crossroads Tex-Mex Restaurant & Bar
This very chic restaurant bar is Nigeria’s premier Tex-Mex spot in the city center. Crossroads offers a wide range of classic Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Tacos, enchiladas, burritos, our specialty hot plate fajitas, and more are available. Crossroads is the longest bar in Lagos and serves a wide variety of unusual alcoholic beverages.
Â
- Type of cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Location: Plot 1415 Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Victoria Island 106104, Lagos, Nigeria
- Crossroads Tex-Mex Restaurant & Bar Website
- Phone number: +23412772700
- Crossroads Tex-Mex Restaurant & Bar Instagram Account
Â
Â
2. Cilantro Lagos
This spacious venue with a patio serves steak, pizza, and curry main courses, as well as wine and draught beer. It is a lovely restaurant with a welcoming service with both indoor and outdoor eating options. They offer a wonderful bar and tasty Mexican cooking.Â
Â
- Type of cuisine: Mexican
- Location: Cilantro Lagos, 7 Musa Yar’ Adua St, Victoria Island 106104, Lagos, Nigeria
- Website: N/A
- Phone number: +2349021999999
- Cilantro Lagos Facebook Page
Â
Â
3. La Taverna Lagos
In a pleasant and cheerful atmosphere, La Taverna serves a variety of Spanish and Italian meals with a splash of Latin-American flavors, especially Mexican. La Taverna is a great venue to meet up with friends and talk over lunch or supper. It contains an interior area, an outdoor area, and a rooftop dining area.
Â
- Type of cuisine: Mexican, Spanish, Italian
- Location: La Taverna Lagos, 48 Balarabe Musa Cres, Victoria Island 23401, Lagos, Nigeria
- Website: N/A
- Phone number: +2349086312927
- La Taverna Lagos Instagram Account
4. Traffic Bar
The traffic bar is a hidden treasure in Ikoyi, Lagos; the cuisine is delicious, and the bar is fantastic, Caribbean-styled, with a natural atmosphere. A cozy pub, with excellent service, as are the meals and beverages.Â
Â
- Type of cuisine: Mexican
- Location: Traffic Bar, Polo Rd, Ikoyi 106104, Lagos, Nigeria
- Website: N/A
- Phone number: +2348091864444
- Traffic Bar Instagram Account
Â
Â
5. Bungalow Restaurant Ikeja
We’ve come across Bungalow a couple of times as it is a very popular spot in Lagos. The place is welcoming, with inexpensive and fast-served food. This probably explains the growth of Bungalow, popping up new restaurants all over Lagos. Whether it’s Mexican or Japanese, you can try both cuisines in the same place.
Â
- Type of cuisine: Mexican, Japanese
- Location: Bungalow Restaurant Ikeja, 9 Adekunle Fajuyi Way, Ikeja GRA 101001, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
- Bungalow Restaurant Ikeja Website
- Phone number: +2349063796694
- Bungalow Restaurant Ikeja Instagram Account
Â
Â
6. Bungalow Restaurant (Victoria Island)
Yep, we had to include Bungalow’s two most popular locations, as it is simply irresistible. Victoria Island couldn’t be without its own branch, so for those who live nearby, you are in for a treat, as you can try their Mexican and Japanese offerings right around your corner.Â
Â
- Type of cuisine: Mexican, Japanese
- Location: Bungalow Restaurant (Victoria Island), 1296 Akin Adesola St, Victoria Island 106104, Lagos, Nigeria
- Bungalow Restaurant (Victoria Island)Â Website
- Phone number: +2348033049104
- Bungalow Restaurant (Victoria Island)Â Instagram Account
Â
Â
7. 355 Restaurant & Lounge
The 355 Restaurant serves customers who like high cuisine with the right mix of nostalgia and novelty. This is achieved by using carefully selected ingredients and exceptional customer service to offer a fine dining experience comparable to that of a top restaurant in London, Paris, or New York.Â
Â
- Type of cuisine: Fusion High Cuisine/Mexican
- Location: 355 Restaurant & Lounge, 9A Oko Awo St, Victoria Island 106104, Lagos, Nigeria
- 355 Restaurant & Lounge Website
- Phone number: +2348113041019
- 355 Restaurant & Lounge Instagram AccountÂ
Â
Â
8. Vanilla Moon
Vanilla Moon is a pleasant restaurant and hangout space for family and friends. The interior design is fashionable and sophisticated, and there are both indoor and outdoor seating spaces. With affordable prices, you can try some interesting Mexican dishes here. The service is professional and prompt, and the food and beverages are delicious. It’s an ideal location for a couple’s or group outing.
Â
- Type of cuisine: Mexican
- Location: Vanilla Moon, 2 Saka Jojo St, Victoria Island 11241, Lagos, Nigeria
- Vanilla Moon Website
- Phone number: +2349030009758
- Vanilla Moon Instagram Account
Â
Â
9. Moist Beach Club
A modern restaurant and bar located on the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean’s coastlines. Moist Beach Club promotes comfort and relaxation in a tranquil ambiance while enjoying refreshing food and beverages from Mexico.
Â
- Type of cuisine: Mexican
- Location: Moist Beach Club, Iru local government, Ligali Ayorinde St, Victoria Island 100011, Lagos, Nigeria
- Moist Beach Club Website
- Phone number: +2347015688888
- Moist Beach Club Instagram Account
Â
Â
10. 355 Restaurant and Lounge – Landmark
355 Lounges are located throughout Nigeria. This one in particular, in Landmark, is adored by guests for its delicious flavors. Try their quesadillas and their fresh drinks, they are simply amazing.Â
Â
- Type of cuisine: Fusion High Cuisine/Mexican
- Location: 355 Restaurant and Lounge – Landmark, landmark, 1 Water Corporation Dr, Maroko 106104, Lagos, Nigeria
- 355 Restaurant and Lounge – Landmark Website
- Phone number: +2348129025358
- 355 Restaurant and Lounge – Landmark Instagram Account
Â
Â
Closing Thoughts on the Best Mexican Restaurants in Lagos
Â
There is a little bit of Mexico scattered all through Lagos. You can find it in every restaurant on this list. Burritos, Margaritas, Nachos, and Quesadillas are just some of the fantastic examples of what Mexican cuisine has to offer. Make sure to try out all of these dining spots, and you’ll understand why they are regarded as some of the best Mexican restaurants in Lagos.
Â
Â
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Mexican Restaurants in Lagos
Â
What is Mexican cuisine known for?
Mexican food is notable for its intense flavors, which come from an assortment of components and culinary methods. In Mexican cooking, a selection of herbs and seasonings, including cumin, oregano, chili powder, coriander, and epazote, are incorporated to create multi-faceted flavors.
Â
Â
What are the most popular Mexican dishes?
1. Tacos
Tacos are a staple of Mexican cuisine and consist of a corn or wheat tortilla filled with meat, vegetables, and other toppings such as cheese, salsa, and guacamole. The tortilla is usually folded in half around the filling, creating a pocket or “taco.” There are many different types of tacos, each with its own unique filling and flavor.
Â
2. Enchiladas
Enchiladas consist of soft tortillas filled with different kinds of ingredients, like chicken, beef, pork, cheese, beans, or vegetables, and then rolled up and smothered in chili pepper sauce.Â
Â
The type of tortilla used is usually made of corn, but some recipes call for flour tortillas instead. Depending on the region and individual tastes, people can use various fillings for their enchiladas and make the sauce as mild or spicy as they want.
Â
3. Quesadillas
Quesadillas are tortillas that are filled with cheese and other ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and beans, and then cooked until the cheese is melted.
Â
Quesadillas can be made with a variety of fillings, depending on personal preferences and regional variations. Some popular fillings include grilled chicken, beef, or shrimp, sautéed vegetables, black beans, corn, or mushrooms. Cheese is an essential ingredient in quesadillas, and commonly used varieties include queso fresco, queso blanco, or cheddar.
Â
4. Tamales
Tamales are a traditional Mesoamerican dish that consists of masa (a dough made from ground corn) that is filled with various ingredients, such as meats, vegetables, or cheeses, and then steamed or boiled in a corn husk or banana leaf wrapper. The filling is usually seasoned with chili peppers, herbs, and spices, giving the tamales a rich and flavorful taste.
Â
After the masa and filling are assembled, the tamales are then cooked in a steaming or boiling process for a few hours to ensure the masa is cooked through. People may choose to consume tamales without any additional toppings, or they might add salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an extra flavor boost. Tamales are considered a classic and much-loved dish, relished by many people in different parts of the world.
Â
5. Chiles Rellenos
Chiles Rellenos are made by roasting whole poblano peppers until the skin is charred, then peeling off the skin and removing the seeds and membranes from inside. The peppers are then stuffed with a filling made from cheese, ground meat, or beans, and sometimes other ingredients such as corn, onions, or tomatoes. The stuffed peppers are then dipped in a light egg batter and fried until crisp and golden brown.
Â
Chiles Rellenos can be served as a main dish with rice and beans, or as a side dish with other Mexican dishes such as tacos or enchiladas. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is beloved by many people who enjoy the flavors of Mexican cuisine.
Â
6. Guacamole
Guacamole is a popular Mexican dip made from mashed avocados, lime juice, salt, and other ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.
Â
To prepare guacamole, soft avocados should be first squashed with a fork or a potato masher until it’s either smooth or slightly chunky, depending on the individual’s preference. The other components are then included and blended in with the mashed avocado to make a creamy, flavorful dip.
Â
Guacamole is frequently served as an appetizer or snack with tortilla chips, but it can also be used as a condiment for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican food. It is a nutritious dip that is high in healthy fats and antioxidants, making it a favorite among health-conscious individuals.
Â
7. Pozole
Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup that is made with hominy (dried corn kernels that have been treated with an alkali), meat (usually pork), and a variety of spices.
Â
To make pozole, the dried hominy is first soaked and cooked until it is soft and tender. Pork or chicken is then added to the pot and simmered with the hominy, along with seasonings such as garlic, onions, and chili peppers. The soup is typically garnished with various toppings, such as shredded lettuce, radishes, avocado, lime wedges, and cilantro.
Â
8. Fajitas
Fajitas are grilled meat (usually chicken or beef) that is served with onions, bell peppers, and other toppings such as salsa and guacamole, and then wrapped in a tortilla.Â
Â
The name “fajita” is derived from the Spanish word “faja,” which means “strip” or “belt,” and refers to the strips of meat used in the dish. The dish is believed to have originated in the borderlands of Texas and Mexico, and it has since become a popular dish in Mexican-American cuisine.
Â
9. Carnitas
Carnitas are slow-cooked pork that is seasoned with herbs and spices and then served with tortillas and toppings such as salsa and guacamole.
Â
Carnitas can be served in a variety of ways, depending on personal preferences and regional variations. It is often served as a filling for tacos, burritos, or tamales, or as a main dish served with rice and beans. Carnitas can also be served with a variety of toppings and accompaniments, such as salsa, guacamole, chopped onions, and cilantro.
Â
Â
What is unique about Mexican food?
The cuisine of Mexico is extraordinary in a lot of respects, from its broad assortment of tastes and components to the cooking approaches and social impacts that have helped it to evolve over the years. Here are some of the particular highlights of Mexican cuisine:
Â
Bold flavors
Mexican cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, thanks to the use of ingredients such as chili peppers, cumin, and garlic.
Â
Use of corn
Corn is a staple in Mexican cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes, such as tortillas, tamales, and pozole.
Â
Diversity of ingredients
Mexican cuisine features a diverse range of ingredients, including various types of meat, vegetables, fruits, herbs, and spices.
Â
Mole sauces
Mole is a rich, flavorful sauce that is made with chili peppers, spices, and sometimes chocolate. It is a unique and distinctive aspect of Mexican cuisine.
Â
Traditional cooking techniques
Mexican cuisine features traditional cooking techniques such as grilling, roasting, and slow cooking, which enhance the flavor and texture of the ingredients.
Â
Regional variations
Mexican cuisine varies widely from region to region, with each region having its own unique dishes, ingredients, and flavors.
Â
Influence of indigenous culture
Mexican cuisine has been influenced by the indigenous cultures of Mexico, resulting in unique dishes and ingredients that are not found in other cuisines.
Â
The mix of intense flavors, diverse components, conventional preparation methods, and cultural impacts make Mexican food one of the most renowned and cherished cuisines in the world.
Â
Â
What are the must-try Mexican dishes?
Mexican gastronomy has a broad selection of savory and vibrant starters that can be used as a preface to the main course or as a light meal. Here are some of the most famous Mexican dishes which are typically served as appetizers:
- Queso Fundido: A melted cheese dish typically made from melted Oaxaca or Chihuahua cheese, seasoned with chorizo or other ingredients, and served with warm tortillas.
- Ceviche: A fresh and zesty seafood dish made from raw fish or shellfish marinated in lime juice and seasoned with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.
- Tostadas: A crispy fried or baked tortilla topped with refried beans, shredded meat, cheese, lettuce, and other toppings. It can be eaten as a light meal or cut into smaller pieces to be served as an appetizer.
- Taquitos: Rolled-up tortillas filled with shredded meat or cheese, deep-fried until crispy, and served with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
- Nachos: Crispy tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, beans, meat, salsa, and other toppings. It is a popular dish in Tex-Mex cuisine and can be served as an appetizer or a light meal.
- Tres Leches Cake: A sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three types of milk (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream), and topped with whipped cream and strawberries.
- Churros: Fried dough pastry coated in cinnamon sugar and served with a chocolate dipping sauce.
- Flan: A creamy custard dessert made with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, often flavored with a touch of rum or brandy and served with caramel sauce.
- Buñuelos: Deep-fried dough coated in cinnamon sugar and often served with a syrup made from piloncillo (unrefined brown sugar) and anise.
- Arroz con Leche: A creamy and comforting rice pudding made with milk, rice, sugar, and cinnamon.