As we celebrate Women’s history month across the world, it’s important to recognize the incredible achievements of women over the years. It’s amazing to see women attain amazing feats in different sectors, and the restaurant industry is no exception. There has been an impressive rise in the number of women-owned restaurants in recent times.
We’ve compiled a list of seven must-visit women-led restaurants in Lagos that you need to know about. From trendy brunch spots to authentic Nigerian and international cuisines, these restaurants are changing the status quo and serving up some seriously delicious food. Whether you live in Lagos, visiting, or just passing through for vibes’ sake, be sure to add these spots to your must-visit list.
1. The Ona
The Ona is Lagos’s poster child for high-end fine dining in the city. With stunning brown-and-white structural design language, Ona’s rustic aesthetic creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Its wooden furniture, bright lighting, and fresh greenery adorning the space make you feel right at home as soon as you step in. Ona’s menu is split into four sections: bar, small plates, large plates and sweets, which are all delightful fusions and refinements of Nigerian ingredients for a sophisticated palette. From their refreshing cocktails like monkeytail agbalumo sour to savoury meals like gbegiri ravioli, each dish is cooked to perfection with exciting twists and bursts of flavour. Visit Ona to push the boundaries of what you know to be food and have fun while at it.
Location: 1701, Violet Yough Close, Victoria Island
2. Maple
Maple is a New York style resto-bar, designed with neutral tones to compliment the greenery that brightens up the room. It is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a stylish and upscale dining experience. The cosy lighting creates a relaxing and sophisticated ambience, making it the perfect spot for a romantic date or an evening out with friends. The best part is that their food and drinks are just as impressive as the decor. Maple offers an extensive menu of delicious food options, alongside mouth-watering cocktails. They are sure to remind you that their proteins are 100% halal so you don’t have to worry about that. They also have Italian and Mexican food options besides their take on classic Nigerian meals. Trust me when I say a visit to Maple will be an unforgettable experience.
Location – 9 Otunba Adedoyin Ogungbe Crescent, Lekki Phase 1
3. The Sidebar by Miskay
The Sidebar is a small cosy bar beside the popular Miskay retail store for women. It’s an elegant and chic space with eccentric green decor accentuating its ambience. The dim lighting creates a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. The menu at Sidebar is also impressive, with a delightful fusion of continental and African dishes with an interesting twist that will tantalise your taste buds. From their succulent ribs to their creamy pasta dishes, each dish is expertly crafted and bursting with flavour — and let’s not forget about the cocktails! Sidebar has an impressive selection of drinks that are just as delicious as they are pretty. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a brunch with friends, Sidebar by Miskay is the perfect spot to enjoy some seriously good food alongside drinks that slap.
Location – 13 Emma Abimbola Cole, Off Fola Osibo Rd, Eti-Osa, Lekki
4. Cafeteria
Cafeteria is known for serving brunch all day in a quaint, intimate space. It offers a casual and laid-back atmosphere, with simple yet stylish decor that creates a warm and inviting ambience. But don’t let the relaxed vibe fool you – the food at Cafeteria is incredibly tasty. Their menu, as mentioned earlier, focuses on brunch food. Think American and English breakfast alongside smoothies and milkshakes made with fresh ingredients. From their crispy chicken burgers to their savoury cheesy steak melts, each dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Their signature cocktails are just as mouth-watering as the food. With their friendly staff and cheery ambience, the food caps off Cafeteria’s understated beauty.
Location – 16, Akin Adesola, Victoria Island
5. Tearoom
The Tearoom is a snug, charming space that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends over a cup of tea or enjoying a leisurely meal. The decor is delightfully vintage-inspired, with soft pastel colours, and pink and white flowers adorning the room. The menu features a range of brunch options like pancakes and french toast as well as international favourites, like creamy pasta and cheeseburgers. Be sure to try their signature tea for a truly authentic experience of Tearoom. Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or a decadent dessert, Tearoom is definitely worth a visit.
Location – 6A Ogbunike, Off Wole Olateju Crescent, Lekki
6. Nok by Alara
Nok by Alara is a must-visit restaurant in Lagos that perfectly blends contemporary style with traditional African influences. The restaurant boasts a beautiful airy interior with a lovely garden area where you can enjoy your meal in the midst of nature. The decor is stunning, featuring natural materials and art pieces that celebrate African culture. But what really sets Nok by Alara apart is its menu, which showcases the very best of new African cuisine. From the famed abula Nok serves to spicy grilled tilapia fish, every dish is prepared with a creative twist that will leave your taste buds buzzing long after you’re done.
Their cocktails also use the same formula, with options like palmwine crush which are a perfect complement to the bold flavours of the rest of the menu. With its exceptional ambience and an inventive menu, Nok by Alara is a restaurant experience you don’t want to miss.
Location – 12A Akin Olugbade Street, Victoria Island
7. The House
The House is a sophisticated and chic restaurant that offers an incredible dining experience. It is a combination of an indoor and outdoor lounge, beautifully designed with modern and elegant decor that exudes luxury. The ambience is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic date night with a significant other as the space is designed to encourage socialising. The menu is diverse, offering a variety of light bites and ample entrees that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. From the delicious spicy snail avocado toast to a savoury braised beef in red wine stew, every dish is sure to have you swooning. The drinks menu is just as appealing, with a wide range of cocktails and wines that pair perfectly with the food. The House in Lagos is definitely worth a visit for its upscale and vibrant atmosphere.
Location – 4 A.J. Marinho Drive, Victoria Island
Lagos is home to some of the most amazing women-owned restaurants in the world, each offering a unique dining experience that celebrates the flavours and cultures of Africa. From the cosy Tearoom with its vintage-inspired decor to the sophisticated space that is The House, and the innovative menu of Ona, these seven must-visit restaurants are perfect for foodies looking to try something new. So whether you live in Lagos or you’re a Johnny just come, be sure to add these incredible eateries to your list and experience the very best of Lagos food while supporting the women entrepreneurs who make it all possible.
