In time for Valentine’s!
Psst, come closer.
I have a little secret to share.
So, picture this: I was minding my business, casually browsing through the team drive (as one does when procrastinating), and there it was.
The list. Yes, Adebola’s top-secret restaurant list. You know, the kind of list that’s supposed to stay tucked away in a personal drive, far from nosy teammates like yours truly.
But hey, accidents happen, right? And with Valentine’s Day around the corner, it feels like fate meant for this list to be shared with the world.
So, here I am, leaking Adebola’s curated guide to the best spots in town to wine and dine your special someone. Oh, and I didn’t stop there. I’ve included what you absolutely must try at each place as seen from the list. Because if you’re going to borrow your boss’ impeccable taste, you might as well go all the way.
Well then, let’s get started before Adebola finds out!
1. The House Lagos
Let’s kick off our culinary tour at The House. Adebola swears by their legendary Jollof and Ofada rice and is convinced they put jazz in their food because everything is A1. They also just renovated their space, so you get to enjoy a chic and cozy ambiance. The House is the perfect setting for a romantic evening. Go for the food, not the aesthetics.
What to Order: Their Jollof rice and smoked Turkey or their Ofada. According to Adebola’s list, you can’t go wrong with either. Infact, in his words “Everything they cook is SOOO GOOOOD”
Check out The House Lagos on Instagram
2. Nok By Alara
Image Credit: Eat Drink Lagos
Adebola’s love for Nok dates back to 2017, and it hasn’t waned. You may hate “bougie Amala,” but Nok’s version of this classic traditional dish is pure joy. Nok is a haven for anyone who appreciates top-tier traditional West African cuisine.
What to Order: Their signature Amala.
Check out Nok by Alara on Instagram
3. Ona Lagos
Ona Lagos is a chef-owned restaurant that celebrates the richness of African cuisine while with a modern twist. They also offer a rooftop bar perfect for enjoying the breeze and scenic views of the city.
What to Order: The Wild duck, red smoked rice and root salad. For dessert, try their spiced chocolate mousse.
Check out Ona Lagos on Instagram
4. HSE Gourmet
If comfort food (with a gourmet twist) is your style, HSE Gourmet is the place to be. The restaurant is renowned for its upscale approach to comfort dishes, and Adebola wrote passionately about their Ramen so I suppose it is worth trying. Enjoy this ramen with their perfect balance of a rich broth, tender noodles, and a medley of fresh toppings.
What to Order: A steaming hot bowl of Ramen with toppings.
Check out HSE Gourmet on Instagram.
5. Cafeteria
For a more cafe-style vibe, head over to Cafeteria for a brunch that is both satisfying and stylish. This spot is perfect for a laid-back Valentine’s morning or an afternoon date. Adebola promises that their pancakes are drool-worthy.
What to Order: The Pancakes or Chicken and waffles
6. Foodshack
When it comes to hearty, finger-licking food, Foodshack delivers with style. They’re known for dishes with bold flavours and generous portions. Foodshack is an ideal spot for a casual, fun-filled date night.
What to Order: Adebola’s go-to dish here is the Honey Ribs, a combination of succulent meat glazed with a sweet and tangy sauce.
Check Foodshaclk out on Instagram.
7. Salmas
Salmas is where to get top-tier Lebanese and Middle Eastern dishes. It’s the perfect place if you’re looking to break away from the usual and try something uniquely delicious. The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and inviting and the right setting for a romantic dinner that transports you and your partner to the Mediterranean.
What to Order: Adebola says to order one of their platters to sample a little bit of everything.
Check out Salma’s on Instagram.
8. Grey Matter
For a modern twist on comfort dining, Grey Matter is where you should head. This spot is famed for its creative menu offerings that blend intercontinental and local ingredients and flavours.
What to Order: Their Tacos as well as the Sweet Potato and Goat Croquettes.
Check out Grey Matter on Instagram.
9. Locale Lagos
Locale Lagos is a hotspot for those who love gourmet one-pan dishes, sides and finger foods.
What to Order: Adebola says to try their one-pan chicken and rice which is, in his words, is “a soul-satisfying dish of flavorful, tender chicken and perfectly seasoned rice”.
10. Pitstop Lagos
Sometimes, nothing beats a classic burger. Pitstop Lagos is a burger lover’s paradise, offering a variety of creative takes on the all-time favorite. Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or something with a twist, you’ll always get a satisfying bite.
What to Order: Grab any burger on the menu — Adebola’s list says they all hit the right notes.
Check out Pitstop Lagos on Instagram.
11. Coah Lagos
If you’re looking to try something a bit more adventurous, Coah Lagos is your go-to. This restaurant is known for its inventive approach to small plates and slides, making it an excellent spot for a light, shareable meal.
What to Order: The Pulled Guinea Fowl Sliders are a standout — flavorful, tender, and perfectly portioned for sharing with your Valentine.
Check out Coah Lagos on Instagram.
12. Sora Lagos
Sora Lagos brings a taste of the exotic with their innovative take on noodles. Perfect for those who love a little spice and excitement in their meals, this restaurant’s version of Chicken Singaporean Noodles is a delightful twist on the classic dish.
What to Order: The Chicken Singaporean Noodles
Check out Sora Lagos on Instagram.
13. Dulce Cafe
Head to Dulce Lagos if you love Pasta. Their Chicken Pesto Pasta fuses traditional Italian flavors with a distinctly Nigerian twist.
What to Order: In Adebola’s words “I always order the Chicken Pesto Pasta. It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a romantic dinner”.
14. Bature Brewery
Bature Brewery always delivers with its on-site craft beer. It’s the spot for a beer aficionado or anyone just looking to toast to love. Their award-winning craft beers are brewed on-site and are the ideal complement to any meal.
What to Order: Try any of their flavored beers.
Check out Bature Brewery on Instagram.
Bonus Treats to Complete the Date
In the spirit of Valentine’s, let me share a lirru bit of Adebola’s best snack spots to finish your date with love. After these next two spots, if she’s not the one proposing to you, call me, I’ll refund the money for the date**.
A Sweet Board: Blow their minds with a medley of assorted finger foods from Board Lagos or head to Xobakery for some yummy doughnuts. Then cool off with some Ice Cream and sorbets from Hans and Rene, located on Ozumba Mbadiwe.
**P.S It’s a joke oo, don’t call.
