Lagos Celebrates Easter: A Long Weekend at EbonyLife Place

Easter in Lagos has its own rhythm. It’s not as loud as December but not as quiet as a regular weekend. It sits somewhere in between. A time when the city slows down just enough for people to gather, reconnect, and enjoy simple moments with family and friends.

Some people travel. Some stay and look for ways to enjoy the long weekend without the usual Lagos rush.

If you are searching for things to do in Lagos this Easter, there is one place where the entire weekend can unfold naturally.

At EbonyLife Place in Victoria Island, Easter is more than just a holiday. It’s a series of experiences—good food, shared laughter, live music, and moments that feel easy and memorable.

A Refined Easter Dinner at Jinja

Some Easter plans call for something a little more elevated. At Jinja, the Easter weekend is designed around a set menu that brings together bold, Asian-inspired flavours and a calm, sophisticated dining experience.

It is the kind of setting where conversation flows easily and the evening feels intentional. Perfect for couples looking for a special dinner, friends gathering for the long weekend, or families who want something more refined.

The Easter Weekend dining experience at Jinja is available throughout the holiday for ₦250,000, offering 5 guests an amazing variety of 9 dishes in an atmosphere that feels both elegant and welcoming.

Two Easter Experiences at Turaka

For those who prefer something a little more relaxed and social, the Easter weekend unfolds beautifully at Turaka.

The weekend begins with the Good Friday Outdoor Grill Experience, where the aroma of spicy grilled meat wafts through the evening air and the unmistakable Turaka rooftop vibe sets the perfect start to the holiday. From 6:00 to 10:00 PM, guests can enjoy BBQ favourites, great conversation, and a drink included in the experience.

On Saturday afternoon, the energy shifts to something lighter with the Saturday Brunch Buffet. Between 1:00 and 6:00 PM, guests can ease into the day with a generous spread, good company, and the laid-back atmosphere Turaka is known for.

Two different experiences. One easy-flowing Easter weekend.

Dinner, Music and Karaoke at The Afrobeat

At The Afrobeat Lagos, the food is just as much a highlight as the music and the moment. The evening begins with a thoughtfully curated three-course dinner that celebrates African flavours in a modern setting. Each course is crafted to feel rich, layered, and satisfying—from vibrant starters, to comforting mains, and indulgent desserts—all designed to complement the evening’s relaxed yet lively mood.

Paired with a complimentary glass of wine, the menu sets the tone for the night, easing guests into an experience where every bite feels intentional, and every flavour tells a story. It is food that doesn’t just fill you up, it draws you in, keeping you present as the evening unfolds.

As the night transitions into music and karaoke, the dining experience lingers, leaving behind that perfect balance of good taste, great company, and vibrant energy that defines a weekend at The Afrobeat Lagos.

The experience is available on the 5th and 6th of April, priced at ₦65,000 per person or ₦120,000 per couple.

Easter Movie Magic for the Whole Family

Of course, Easter would not feel complete without a little movie magic. At EbonyLife Cinemas, the holiday weekend transforms into a family-friendly experience filled with great films, amazing food, and a few fun surprises.

The Easter Family Movie Package offers everything needed for a perfect outing with loved ones. Four movie tickets, large popcorn, pizza, drinks, cinema blankets, and sweet Easter treats for the kids.

But the real excitement comes with the Golden Egg Surprise. During Easter weekend, selected popcorn packs will contain special Golden Egg prizes. Guests who discover one might win free movie tickets, drinks, popcorn, or cinema collectables.

For film lovers who prefer to fully immerse themselves in storytelling, the Easter Movie Marathon offers three back-to-back films, unlimited popcorn refills, and a cosy cinema experience designed for true movie enthusiasts.

It is the kind of outing that turns a simple day into a full Easter movie memory.

Easter Weekend, All in One Place

What makes Easter at EbonyLife Place special is how easily everything comes together.

Dinner at Jinja, rooftop moments at Turaka, music and karaoke at The Afrobeat, and family movie experiences at EbonyLife Cinemas.

Different experiences, all within one vibrant destination in Victoria Island. So if you are planning how to spend the holiday and wondering where to celebrate Easter in Lagos, this might just be the easiest answer.

Because sometimes the best weekends are the ones where everything you need is ready and waiting in one place—EbonyLife Place.

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An Easy April Evening at EbonyLife Place

April in Lagos carries a different energy. Work has picked up, schedules are fuller, and the city has returned to its usual rhythm. But with everything moving quickly, there are evenings when all you really want is something simple. Not a loud party, not a complicated night out, just a place where you can slow down and enjoy the moment.

Maybe you leave the office later than expected. Maybe traffic has taken its share of your patience. Or maybe you feel that quiet nudge that says it’s not yet time to go home.

Almost naturally, you find yourself heading toward EbonyLife Place in Victoria Island. When people search for things to do in Victoria Island, Lagos, this is one of the few places where the night can unfold easily, without pressure.

Start with a Cinema Experience

There is something about stepping into a cinema that immediately takes the edge off the day. The lights dim. Conversations get softer. And the outside world becomes quiet.

At EbonyLife Cinemas, the experience goes beyond just watching a film—it’s a chance to reset your mind after a long Lagos day.

Maybe you came alone for a quiet break or a midweek outing with someone special. Maybe it’s just you, a comfortable seat, a strong cocktail, and a large bag of popcorn.

Whatever brings you in, you almost always leave feeling lighter. And in a city that rarely slows down, that feeling matters more than we realise.

Turn Dinner into an Experience

After the movie, hunger usually makes its entrance. This is where Pizza Garden changes the mood of the night completely.

Instead of the usual routine of sitting down by the poolside and ordering from a menu, you get to make your own pizza. You pick your toppings, layer the ingredients, and enjoy the moment it returns hot and fresh from the wood-fired oven.

There is something playful about the creative process. People laugh at unexpected topping combinations, conversation flows, and the evening begins to feel relaxed.

On karaoke nights, the energy is even more lively. Someone always finds the courage to grab the microphone and sing off-key. And somehow everyone enjoys it even more because of that.

If you have been searching for fun restaurants in Victoria Island, Lagos, Pizza Garden offers an experience that feels both easy and memorable.

Catch Live Music at Turaka

As the evening air cools, the rooftop begins to feel like the natural next step.

Turaka has a way of drawing people in gently. Soft lighting, good music, and a view of the Lagos skyline that reminds you how beautiful the city can be when you pause long enough to notice it.

On Turaka Live nights, which happen every other Thursday, the atmosphere becomes even richer. Live music fills the space and adds a warmth that recorded playlists simply cannot recreate.

You might arrive planning to stay briefly, but most people end up staying much longer than they expected. Because this is what rooftop nightlife in Victoria Island, Lagos, is meant to feel like. Easy, relaxed, and effortlessly enjoyable.

April in Lagos, Done Right

There is something about April that encourages people to find their rhythm again.

The year is moving forward, but there is still enough space to enjoy the city without the rush. And that is exactly why EbonyLife Place works so well during this time.

Cinema, dining, music and moments to unwind all in one place. Everything flows naturally. Nothing feels forced. The night becomes whatever you need it to be.

And sometimes, that is exactly what a good evening in Lagos should feel like.

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Valentine’s Day Ideas for Couples in Lagos

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be dramatic or expensive to be meaningful. You don’t have to rent out a restaurant or write a ten-page love letter (unless you want to). What people remember most is not the price tag, it’s how the day felt.

The best Valentine’s Day plans start with one simple question: Do we want this to be calm, playful or romantic? Once you know the vibe you and your partner want, everything else falls into place.

Here are fun, thoughtful ideas that help you build connection, not pressure, on Valentine’s.

1. Cinema Date and Playful Experiences

A movie date is still one of the easiest ways to create a connection. Sitting next to each other, sharing snacks, laughing or reacting to the same scenes gives you something to talk about afterwards. And when the environment is cosy and relaxed, it feels more intimate than a rushed dinner.

Adding something interactive before or after the movie, like gaming at VR centres, adds laughter, play and genuine memories.

2. Cook Together and Bond

Cooking together is another powerful way to connect. At places like Pizza Garden, where you can design your own pizza or pasta, the experience is a collaboration that you both can joke about — toppings, making a mess, and crazy recipes. By the time your meal is ready, you will have already bonded.

Shared experiences like these matter more than expensive dinners.

3. Double Dates

If you love hanging out with friends as much as you love being with each other, then double dates are a vibe. Going out with another couple can turn Valentine’s Day into laughter, inside jokes, and shared memories.

Want something calm and elegant? Choose a space like Jinja, with soft lighting and great food. And if you want something casual and lively? Then Turaka Lagos is a spot with a breezy atmosphere and easy conversation.

4. Staycation

If you don’t want the day to end, why not stroll over to The White Orchid Hotel for even greater intimacy? Start with a bottle of wine or some cocktails, and just let the evening flow.

Valentine’s Day is not about proving anything. It’s about choosing experiences that remind you why you enjoyed being together in the first place.

To avoid rush hour, book your experience now at EbonyLife Place. Click here to see what we have in store for you.

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Budget-Friendly Activities in Lagos

Enjoyment in Lagos doesn’t always have to mean empty pockets. You just need to know where to go — spots that give good vibes without making your wallet scream. If you’ve been searching for budget-friendly activities in Lagos this December, you’re in the right place. Let me plug you in.

1. Make Your Own Pizza at Pizza Garden

Pizza Garden isn’t your regular “order-and-eat” spot; here, you get to be the chef for a day. Pick your toppings, design your dream pizza, and watch it come to life while you laugh with your crew or partner.

If you happen to visit on Pizza and Karaoke Night (every two Fridays), the fun multiplies with cocktails by the pool, friends singing off-key, and laughter so contagious it melts away Lagos stress. Budget-friendly? Absolutely. Boring? Never.

2. Rooftop Vibes at Turaka Live

If “soft life” is your love language, then Turaka is your place. Think: a cool rooftop breeze, city lights, and cocktails that taste like a mini-vacation.

For extra vibes, stop by on Turaka Live Thursdays (every other week) — a mix of live band, rooftop energy, and the kind of atmosphere that makes Lagos nights unforgettable.

3. Catch a Movie (and Some VR Fun) at EbonyLife Cinemas

Sometimes you don’t need loud music or a crowd, just a comfy recliner, a blanket, popcorn, and a great movie. That’s the EbonyLife Cinemas experience, all for less than the price of two cocktails at a club.

And if you arrive early or just want to stay longer, pop into the Vortex VR Gaming Centre right next door. Compete with friends, play solo, or dive into a whole new world. It’s pure fun without the Lagos chaos.

4. Free Vibes and Perfect Photo Spots

Even if you’re not spending, EbonyLife Place itself is a whole vibe. Between the poolside glow, murals, greenery, and warm lighting, every corner looks like a photo op. Come with friends, take pictures, or just sit and people-watch — no entry fee, no stress, just good vibes.

The Lagos Fun Hack

We all know Lagos can be… a lot. The traffic, the prices, the pressure. But your fun doesn’t have to suffer for it. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly date ideas, chill hangouts, or a quiet place to unwind, EbonyLife Place has you covered — food, music, movies, games, and pure relaxation in one beautiful spot.

Because sometimes, the best nights out are the ones that don’t cost much… but still make you feel like you’re living the good life.

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Where To Eat in Lagos

If you’ve ever wondered where to eat in Lagos that feels like an experience and not just a meal, you’re in the right place. Because if Lagos had a love language, it would be food. Think about it — every birthday, every owambe, every link-up somehow finds its way back to a table stacked with something deliciously spicy, saucy, or fresh off the grill.

Food is how we celebrate, how we recover from traffic, and how we say, “I’ve missed you”. For anyone proudly wearing the foodie badge, Lagos is the ultimate playground. So if you’re searching for where to eat in Lagos that combines flavour, comfort, and a touch of luxury — skip the stress and head to EbonyLife Place in Victoria Island.

Start your food journey at Jinja, one of the best restaurants in Lagos for global flavours. One bite and you’re in Bangkok, the next in Seoul, then Tokyo, Mumbai, and Beijing. Every dish feels like a stamp in your passport — bold curries, fragrant noodles, and sushi rolls almost too beautiful to eat. The space glows with warm lighting, radiant artwork, and quiet conversation, giving you that calm, refined feeling that makes every meal feel like a celebration.

When the sun begins to dip, head upstairs to Turaka rooftop restaurant to watch the sky’s changing colours over the Atlantic. From there, the city looks softer—cocktails clink, the skyline glows, and laughter floats on the evening breeze—and every bite from its Nigerian and international menu is a reminder of all that’s great about Lagos.

If you’re looking for something playful, Pizza Garden is your poolside paradise. It’s that sweet mix of fun, food, and freedom that makes weekends feel longer. With over a dozen flavours, from Korean BBQ Beef to Thai Chicken perfection, and the chance to create your own, it’s not just pizza, it’s Lagos self-care you can eat. Picture yourself, legs paddling in the pool, a juicy, cheesy slice in one hand, a creamy milkshake in the other. True therapy, Lagos-style.

And then there’s The Afrobeat—where flavour meets culture. The dishes here don’t whisper; they shout proudly about the genius of African cuisine. Every wooden platter bursts with spice, colour, and confidence, giving your favourite flavours an elevated, modern twist, rooted in authenticity. It’s where jollof goes Jambalaya, Lamb Suya is stuffed in ravioli, and king prawns crown your Seafood Abula.

Why not end the night with a little movie magic? EbonyLife Cinemas redefines the film experience—wide leather recliners, elevated footrests, cosy blankets, and the widest variety of cinema food in West Africa.

Beyond the traditional popcorn-and-soft drinks combo, this cinema has a loaded concession stand—10 pizza variations, signature cocktails, red & white wine, their famous ChopsBox, Chilli Dog, Chicken Wrap, Gourmet Pies in Asun, chicken, seafood flavours, smoked chicken burger, and a cream parfait with fruit and nuts. Even if you just want popcorn, you’ve got to try the chocolate flavour. Whether it’s a blockbuster with friends or date night, this is comfort, redefined.

From Asian feasts, poolside pizza, and rooftop nights, to movie dates fit for a foodie, or quiet mornings wrapped in crisp hotel sheets, every corner of EbonyLife Place tells a story worth remembering. These are the moments to savour: views that slow time; meals that turn strangers into friends; and precious time spent with loved ones, in a city that never stops moving. 

EbonyLife Place — Escape. Relax. Repeat. 
📍 123 Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos

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Fun things to do in Lagos, Nigeria

The real flex is to enjoy stress-free chills that make weekdays feel like weekends. Here are the top fun things to do in Lagos, Nigeria from now until year-end.

Cinema Serenity, Not Wahala

Forget those narrow movie seats and noisy cinema halls—there is a better option. After visiting several cinemas in Victoria Island, I discovered EbonyLife Cinemas, the best in Lagos, just opposite the entrance to Eko Hotel car park. Here, you’re in a fat leather recliner, legs elevated, under a blanket, pizza in one hand and a chilled cocktail in the other… and boom, Friday stress deleted. The best part about this experience is it applies to every moviegoer—every guest gets a reclining seat with a headrest, a feature usually reserved for VIP screens in some Lagos cinemas.

If you’d like to be extra, just take a short walk to Vortex VR & Gaming Experience and lose yourself in a fantasy world.

Pool + Pizza + Playlist = Traffic Unlocked

One sweaty afternoon in VI traffic, I decided to leave the wahala behind and cross the street to Pizza Garden, a poolside oasis under a cool almond tree. Afrobeats playlist on shuffle, cold milkshake in hand, I opted to make my own pizza, instead of the 12 gorgeous flavours listed.

Just in case you are feeling introverted on that day and like to Netflix and binge on the latest movies showing, you can get pizza delivered to your doorstep. The thin-crust, BBQ Chicken pizza is, in my opinion, the best pizza yet.

Sunset hits differently at a rooftop bar

Turaka is one of the top restaurants in Lagos with the best rooftop bar. If you’d like to enjoy dining that slaps and cocktails smoother than Lagos gossip, head to Turaka in Victoria Island.

Eat Global, Stay Local

No passport? No wahala. At Jinja, you’re on an Asian food tour — spicy curries, sumptuous noodles, and sushi rolls that could belong in an art gallery, and much, much more. Jinja is the only restaurant in Lagos to serve Thai, Japanese, Korean, Indian and Chinese cuisine.

If your taste buds prefer more local flavours, The Afrobeat is bold, adventurous, and unapologetically African. Think Seafood Abula, Kilishi & Garri Salad, Mixed Meat Pepper Soup Cappuccino, Akara Tacos, Tagliatelle Ayamase, and spicy Afrobeans in a soft bao bun.

Staycation Cheat Code

Here’s the Lagos hack no one tells you about: you don’t need to “japa” to escape the stress. A weekend at The White Orchid Hotel = quiet luxury, buffet breakfasts that make oversleeping worth it, and service so smooth you’ll forget the stress of city-living even exists.

From cinema therapy and poolside pizza, to rooftop sunsets, foodie adventures, and cheeky staycations—you’re not just escaping the city, you’re unlocking the best of it.

📍 All in one place: EbonyLife Place.

Weekdays in Lagos? Pure madness. The only thing keeping us sane is knowing the weekend is loading. And when it finally hits? Omo, we treat it like Detty December — even if it’s just for two days.

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Best Restaurants in Lagos: Where to Eat, Drink & Vibe

Victoria Island is the location where top restaurants in Lagos reside, business meetings turn into brunches and ‘quick’ catch-ups stretch into dinners. The restaurant scene here isn’t just growing, it’s thriving. From rooftop grills to poolside bites, VI has become the city’s ultimate dining playground.

So, if you’re tired of the same suya spot or driving around looking for the next trendy restaurant, there’s one location in Victoria Island that provides a variety of great places to eat without being stuck in traffic – EbonyLife Place

Jinja – a fusion of Asian flavours

Think of Jinja as your passport to Asia. without the expensive flight. The menu offers Indian, Thai, Korean, Chinese and Japanese favourites that feel both adventurous and comforting. The space itself? Elegant but unpretentious, making it perfect for date night or solo food therapy.

Turaka – the food, the vibe, the view

Rooftop restaurants in Lagos are definitely always a flex, but Turaka adds something extra: the best view of the Atlantic coast, dishes that never miss, and signature cocktails that keep the night flowing. Turaka is where you take friends from out of town to show them that Lagos dining can be both Instagrammable and delicious.

The Afrobeat – where culture meets flavour

The world’s first restaurant inspired by Nigeria’s global music is more than a place to eat, it’s a bold, vibrant burst of Afrobeats culture that infuses the decor, food, and service. The menu elevates African flavours into innovative cuisine; warm earth colours and a bold mural feel uniquely African; and wall-to-wall video screens project the genre’s iconic artistes and their music. The Afrobeat is the Lagos spot that excites your palate, invigorates your senses, and warms your soul.

Pizza Garden – taste happiness in every slice

Some people say pizza is food—others know it’s therapy. At Pizza Garden, popularly known as one of the top restaurants in Lagos, you’ll quickly realise you belong in the second group. Your adventure begins with one question: Are you in the mood to explore 12 signature flavours, or do you want to play chef for a day? As the chef, you get the power to choose your sauce, pile on your favourite toppings, and wait a few minutes for your creation to be baked to cheesy perfection. The result? A pizza that screams, “This is so me.” Take that first bite, cocktail in hand, and remember why life can be so sweet. 

The White Orchid Café – indulge in quiet luxury

Sometimes, you want an intimate dining experience from the best restaurants in Lagos without the fuss. The White Orchid Hotel’s lobby café offers delicious meals, a serene ambience, and attentive service that feels personal. It’s the ideal location for business lunches, quiet couples dinners, or a solo treat.

So, whether you’re in the mood for Asian fusion, rooftop vibes, pizza by the pool, or quiet luxury, EbonyLife Place is the one location that has it all. The only problem? Deciding which one to try first.

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Welcome To Pizza Garden: Lagos’s NEW Pizza Spot!

 

Ebonylife Place is thrilled to announce the launch of Pizza Garden. After a period of anticipation, we’re excited to invite you to join us for our grand opening on July 26 from 12 pm. With 12 delightful signature pizzas, we’re ready to serve you the best pizza in Lagos – come and find out for yourself!

A Slice of Heaven: Our New Signature Pizzas.

At Pizza Garden, we believe that pizza can be reinvented and we’ve done exactly that with our new lineup of signature pizzas. From the exotic flavours of our Thai-Style Chicken and Korean BBQ Beef pizzas to the savoury Seafood Sensation and our Edi Special, with the taste of Edikang Ikong on a pizza! Other Nigerian flavours, include Chilli Goat and Lagos Margarita. Each pizza is crafted, using the freshest ingredients, to ensure every bite is a slice of heaven.

 

More Than Just Pizza

While our pizzas are the star of the show, Pizza Garden offers much more. Savour our refreshing cocktails and milkshakes. Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, our diverse menu has something to satisfy every craving.

The Perfect Ambiance

What sets Pizza Garden apart is not just our delicious food but also our enchanting setting. Enjoy your meal by our poolside garden fountain, creating the perfect ambience for dining, special occasions, and creative experiences. It’s an ideal spot for family gatherings, date nights, or simply unwinding with friends.

 

 

Stay ‘n’ Share or Grab ‘n’ Go

We understand that different occasions call for different dining experiences. Whether you’re planning to stay and share a meal with loved ones or grab a quick bite on the go, Pizza Garden has got you covered. Our inviting atmosphere encourages you to relax and make memories, while our efficient service ensures you can enjoy our delicious offerings even when you’re on the move.

 

Join Us for the Grand Opening

We can’t wait to welcome you back to Pizza Garden. Mark your calendar for July 26 and experience the magic of our new pizzas, enjoy the serene ambience, and make lasting memories with us. 

People say we have the best pizza in Lagos – it’s time for you to find out for yourself!

For more information and updates, follow us on Instagram @pizzagarden_lagos or call us on 0817 946 6989. 

Pizza Garden – Taste happiness in every slice.

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Why Seafood Lovers Will Live Longer Than Meat Lovers

Excessive consumption of red meat may trigger certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer. Red meat contains saturated fat, which increases the risk of heart disease and other health problems – MedicalNewsToday. Over the course of eight years, people who increase their daily intake of red meat are more likely to die, compared to people who do not increase their red meat consumption – hsps.harvard.edu.

Are you shocked yet?

Our internet in-laws would say that even with the emergence of online medical practitioners such as aproko doctor who is one of the prominent Twitter & Instagram food police, the impact of people’s food choices on their health can never be gravely overemphasised. In this blog post, we will delve into some thought-provoking facts that will help you decide if the conclusions of this article may or may not be true.

Firstly, why invest in that facial cream? Eat more shrimps instead. Seafood lovers look considerably younger than meat lovers because most seafood has been proven to contain antioxidants that slow down the aging process of people who consume them regularly – healthline.com 

And have you ever heard of the saying,  ‘seafood is the heart’s best friend’? Eating approximately one or two 3-ounce servings of fatty fish each week—salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies, or sardines—reduces the risk of dying from heart disease by 36% – seafood nutrition.org. Medical experts have strongly advised that people should eat fatty fish once or twice a week to meet their Omega-3 requirements. So if you ever need that one food type that will look after your heart, you should try seafood.

There is a risk of experiencing dementia as one gets older, but this is less true for seafood lovers. Seafood contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which help to maintain healthy brain cells, improving memory focus and cognitive performance. Research has shown that an intake of 25 grams of processed meat each day may increase the relative risk of developing dementia –  medicalnewstoday.com. 

Lastly but very importantly, why spend so much on weight loss supplements when you can easily afford seafood? Seafood is a high source of protein and low calories. Regular consumption of seafood and steady exercise could increase your metabolism effortlessly, aiding in general weight loss and bodyweight maintenance – healthline.com

It is evident that seafood lovers have a lot to gain health-wise. Whenever you consume seafood, you are not just indulging in a taste adventure but nurturing your health from the inside-out.

If you decide to begin or just want excellent options to continue your journey to healthier eating, we suggest Turaka or Jinja restaurants in Victoria Island, Lagos. These great spots serve the most delicious, fresh and juicy seafood dishes for Asian, local and international cuisine . Have a go and let us know about your experience!

After all that’s been said, what’s your go-to option—seafood or meat?  Tell us in the comments section.

Top African Dishes You Must Try And Why

Nigeria stands undefeated as one of the African countries with the widest range of top African dishes you must try whenever you’re in town. Most Nigerian cuisine consists of meals bursting with intense flavours that will make your taste buds come alive. Do you want to explore but not quite sure what and where to begin? Sit back, fasten your belt while we take you through top african dishes you must try and why.

Jollof Rice

This dish is the perfect non-literal example of the saying ‘to each his own’. Virtually every African country has their version, but it might interest you to know that even with the rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana about “who makes the best jollof rice”, this dish did not originate from any of them. Yes, it’s funny.

Nevertheless, Jollof rice is probably the number one dish in African homes and celebrations. Its popularity that earned it that position on the list is not just a hype- the dish is specially made with well cooked rice, stirred in tomato sauce and a flavorful combo of veggies and spices that brings out the smoky aroma in it. 

My recommendation for you will be the Nigerian Jollof rice cooked with firewood, your palate will give you a hug and your tongue will sing songs.

Pounded Yam

Pounded yam became a viral internet sensation a few years back when some YouTubers discovered the meal. It is a smooth and stretchy mould enjoyed with all Nigerian soups. Before this dish found internet fame, even locally the ability to make any soup a star dish has given Pounded yam a 5-star rating in the community of other ‘swallows’. Paired with Efo riro, Afang soup, Egusi soup, Okro soup etc, Pounded yam always delivers in taste exactly what it should.

Suya

Suya! Some would argue that a properly prepared Suya is done only at night, in the open air and wrapped in an old newspaper with sprinkles of Suya pepper and veggies hugging the juicy, tender meat tightly. Many have questioned the reason why this particular meal is mostly sold at night, but again some of the others who have bought this meat in the daytime say it tastes different. It might just be a cultural preference in Nigeria, or a superstition, no one knows. However Suya is chosen to be prepared, this dish is unarguably a unifier of tribes.

Pepper soup

If you have a delicate palate, Pepper soup will give you a new appreciation for life- so it’s best to avoid it. This hot and spicy Nigerian soup is prepared with different kinds of proteins according to your preference- fish, chicken, or goat meat pepper with chunks of yam cut into it as an option. The soup is a combination of spices, including ginger, garlic, and chilli peppers. The intensity of this flavourful dish has made it somewhat of a challenge for most foreigners. Are you willing to try this adventurous meal yourself?

Moi Moi

Here’s another yummy and satisfying Nigerian meal for first timers. This tasty meal is made from beans grinded to a fine texture mixed with peppers, onions, spices, and sometimes garnished on the inside with fish or egg. The mixture is then wrapped in banana leaves or foil and steamed until firm. Moi Moi can be eaten on its own, it can also be served as a side dish with Pap,  Jollof rice or fried plantains in Nigerian homes, parties and restaurants. 

Chin Chin

Chin Chin is a sweet and crunchy Nigerian snack made with flour, sugar, and butter rolled into small pieces and deep-fried until golden brown.The sweetness and crunch of Chin Chin makes it a great snack option. It is usually served alone or alongside puff puff, spring roll commonly referred to as small chops at Nigerian parties.

Egusi soup

Egusi soup is made from crushed melon seeds and a variety of spices, dried fish, stock fish, veggies and palm oil.   It can be enjoyed as a lone meal, or paired with Pounded yam, Fufu, Wheat flour or any of your preferred swallow. Try this meal out on your next visit to Nigeria and let us know what you think!

Akara

Locally known as Akara, Beans cake is that one meal without a rival in Nigerian homes, especially during breakfast on weekends. This tasty snack is made from beans, grinded to a certain texture with onions, and spices formed into balls and deep fried. It is typically served with bread or as a side dish with pap and custard. This meal promises a satisfying experience especially during a rainy Saturday morning.

Seafood Okro soup

If you are a lover of delicious soups with a taste of the ocean’s bounty, then you should try the Naija Seafood Okra. This soup is specially prepared with vegetables steamed in Okra, garnished with prawns and a wide variety of fishes. Usually served with pounded yam or fufu, this meal will leave your taste buds anticipating the next encounter.

Ekpa-nkukwo

The last on the list is a not-so popular Nigerian dish called Ekpa-nkukwo. This sounds like a tongue-twister but the taste of this special meal is magical. It is prepared with freshly grated cocoyam, wrapped in leafy greens and slowly stirred with various types of fresh or smoked meat, fish, crayfish and other spices. On special request, it can be made to please the taste buds of a vegetarian or a seafood lover. 

Nigeria offers a wide range of delicious and diverse dishes. Every dish is a unique tasty experience that embodies the rich food culture of Nigeria. If you are in Lagos, looking for great restaurants in Victoria Island, head on to Turaka rooftop and The White Orchid Hotel restaurants in EbonyLife Place in Victoria Island to experience the diversity of the Nigerian food culture in a hygienic, serene environment.

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