Being a vegan in Lagos, Nigeria can be exhausting. From the constant stares to the need to explain why your fried rice doesn’t have to come with chicken and the numerous questions that arise when you admit to being a vegan, it can be a challenging experience. Due to these difficulties, many vegans prefer to eat at home. Even though there are options for dining out, they often find it difficult to choose suitable restaurants. These challenges contribute to the feeling that Lagos is not welcoming for a thriving vegan community. However, there are still vegan restaurants in Lagos that offer a range of plant-based options. Here are the top 10:
1. Veggie Victory
Location – 29a Ikorodu Crescent, Dolphin Estate, Lagos
The first vegetarian and vegan-only Nigerian restaurant in Lagos would be the number one spot for any Vegan in Lagos. They offer a variety of plant-based dishes, including tofu, yam chips, and vegan shawarma. The sweetest part about them is how innovative they are with their meals, they go as far as providing innovative plant-based variations of traditional Nigerian meals, such as vegan versions of eba and amala. They are innovative to the point that they have meals that still give the protein taste and flavour you get when eating meat. They use a plant-based ingredient called seitan, which is very popular in their restaurant. Although not all that fancy with fine ambience and decor its menu is perfect for vegans who have trouble finding food that fits their diet. If you’re vegan or just curious about vegan food, Veggie Victory is a must-visit spot in Lagos.
2. Gourmet Vegan Kitchen
Location – 7/12 Rumens Road, Ikoyi, Lagos
The warm reception you receive upon arrival sets Gourmet Vegan Kitchen apart. Known for its bespoke hospitality, Gourmet Vegan Kitchen is a popular spot for vegans in Lagos. The restaurant offers a wide range of vegan options, including juicy mushroom burgers, spicy avocado, and veggie patties. The welcoming and cosy atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal. Best of all, they cater to everyone, whether you’re a committed vegan or simply trying something new, ensuring you leave feeling satisfied.
3. Spice Route
Location – 36 Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island
Spice Route is a renowned restaurant in Lagos that offers various dishes, including several vegan options. Their menu features inventive vegan appetisers and main courses, such as mushroom sauces, chickpea-centred meals, and vegan curries. The restaurant’s aesthetic and ambience make it an excellent choice for special occasions. In addition to being visually stunning and perfect for photos, the atmosphere is always lively and filled with smiling faces that will brighten your day. It’s an ideal spot for a fun, intimate birthday dinner or a memorable date night.
4. Cactus Restaurant
Location – 20-24 Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island
Cactus Restaurant is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. While their menu is not entirely vegan, they do offer several delicious vegan and vegetarian-friendly options, including a kale strawberry salad and veggie summer rolls. If you are looking for a restaurant with a serene atmosphere and beautiful decor, Cactus should be your go-to choice. Its location right by the water adds an extra relaxing touch to the dining experience, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal.
5. RSVP
Location – 9 Eletu Ogabi Street, Victoria Island
RSVP is a sophisticated restaurant that offers a range of dishes, including hummus meals, salads, and vegetable stir-fries. The restaurant’s understated sophistication makes it a great choice for a special occasion. RSVP has something for everyone. If you like meat or are a vegan, they have options for you. Try their hummus, salads, or vegetable stir-fries. They have a variety of vegan options that cater to different tastes and preferences.
6. Izanagi Japanese Cuisine
Location – 19B Idejo St, Victoria Island
Izanagi Japanese Cuisine is a popular spot for those looking for a vegan Japanese meal. They offer a range of plant-based options, including sushi and other Japanese dishes. The restaurant’s elegant atmosphere and high-quality food make it a great choice for a special occasion. With its unique and traditional Japanese style, Izanagi provides a sophisticated ambience that is perfect for a special night out or a casual meal with friends. Izanagi has consistently received high praise for its quality and consistency. The restaurant’s sushi chefs are known for their attention to detail and dedication to traditional Japanese techniques. The dishes are carefully prepared to ensure that every bite leaves you craving for more.
7. La Veranda Italian Cuisine
Location – 17 Oju Olobun Cl, Victoria Island
La Veranda Italian Cuisine is another popular spot for vegans in Lagos. La Veranda has made an effort to cater to vegans by offering a few plant-based options. The menu includes vegan-friendly dishes such as the Vegan Lasagna, which features layers of pasta, vegetables, and vegan cheese. The Vegan Pizza is another option, topped with a variety of vegetables and vegan cheese. However, the options are limited, and vegans may find themselves having to make adjustments to suit their dietary needs.
The restaurant’s cosy atmosphere makes it very easy to go with a plus one.
8. Thrive
Thrive, located in Lekki, is the latest addition to Lagos’ thriving vegan community. Building on the success of Veggie Victory, Thrive focuses on healthy eating by avoiding table salt, refined sugar, flour, hydrogenated oil, and potentially toxic seasonings. Their menu features a variety of options, including veggie smoothies, alkaline shots, and both continental and traditional vegan dishes like mushroom suya.
9. Orchid House Thai Restaurant
Location – 25b Gafari Animashaun St, Victoria Island
Orchid House Thai Restaurant is a great place to enjoy delicious and vegan Thai food. They offer a variety of dishes that are free from animal products, making it easy for vegans to find something they like. The restaurant’s commitment to vegan options ensures that everyone can enjoy the rich flavours and aromas of Thai cuisine without compromising their dietary preferences.
10. Shiro Lagos
Location – Block XVI 3 & 4 Victoria Island Oniru Estate, Eti-Osa
Shiro Lagos is an excellent destination for enjoying delicious vegan Asian cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes free from animal products, making it easy for vegans to find something they like. Options include Hoisin Mock Duck, Bang Bang Summer Rolls, Vietnamese Aubergine, Korean Chilli Potatoes, and Miso Vegetable and Chi Chow style Dim Sum, all of which are sure to delight your taste buds. The restaurant features a modern, sleek interior with a bar and lounge area that provides a lively atmosphere. The attentive and patient staff ensure that customers have an enjoyable dining experience.
With the growing vegan population in Lagos, the demand for vegan-friendly restaurants is on the rise. Fortunately, these top 10 vegan restaurants in Lagos offer a range of plant-based options to cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you are a vegan or just looking to try something new, these restaurants are sure to provide a satisfying dining experience.
