Perfect for intimate dinners or celebrations. Jump to ambiance | Jump to food | Jump to bar | Jump to events
Key Takeaways
- Stunning outdoor garden setting with fairy lights and live plants, ideal for Abuja’s evenings.
- Top menu picks: Grilled prawns (₦8,500), truffle pasta (₦7,200), and beef short ribs (₦12,000).
- Bar shines with signature cocktails like the MAARA Mule (₦5,000) and an extensive wine list.
- Event-ready with private cabanas for up to 100 guests, highly rated 4.8/5 on Instagram reviews.
- Open daily; located at 25 Okemesi Crescent, Garki 2.
Unmatched Outdoor Ambiance at Cotta by MAARA Abuja
I first stepped into Cotta by MAARA on a balmy Abuja evening, and the outdoor space immediately transported me to a hidden garden oasis. Unlike the typical urban eateries, this spot masterfully blends lush greenery with soft fairy lights strung across mature trees, creating pockets of intimacy amid the open air.
The centerpiece is a sprawling al fresco area with cushioned cabanas draped in sheer fabrics that flutter gently in the breeze, perfect for Abuja’s tropical climate where evenings cool just enough for comfort.
What sets it apart is the thoughtful layering of sensory details. Fresh herbs from on-site planters perfume the air, mingling with subtle wood-fired grill smoke from the open kitchen. Seating ranges from communal long tables for groups to cozy two-seaters tucked under pergolas, all elevated on polished concrete floors that reflect the lights beautifully at night.
During my visit, a live acoustic guitarist played smooth Afrobeats covers, amplifying the relaxed yet upscale vibe without overpowering conversations. It’s the kind of place where time slows, making it ideal for first dates or unwinding after a hectic week in the capital.
Pros of the Outdoor Experience
- Intimate lighting and plant walls create a private, romantic atmosphere even when busy.
- Natural ventilation keeps it comfortable year-round, rain or shine, with covered sections.
- Pet-friendly policies allow leashed dogs, adding to the relaxed garden feel.
Potential Drawbacks
- Mosquito presence during peak rainy season; bring repellent for longer stays.
- Popular spots book out fast on weekends, so reservations via Instagram are essential.
Standout Food at Cotta: Top Menu Picks and Current Prices
The menu at Cotta by MAARA fuses West African flavors with global twists, executed with precision in their visible wood-fired kitchen. I remember savoring the grilled tiger prawns, plump and charred just right, served with a zesty mango chimichurri that cuts through the richness perfectly. Priced at ₦8,500 for a generous portion, it’s a steal compared to similar spots in Wuse or Maitama.
Diving deeper, their truffle-infused egusi pasta reimagines a Nigerian classic, blending creamy egusi sauce with al dente spaghetti and shaved black truffles for ₦7,200. It’s hearty yet refined, with the nutty egusi melding seamlessly with earthy truffle notes. For meat lovers, the slow-cooked beef short ribs fall off the bone, glazed in a palm wine reduction at ₦12,000, paired ideally with jollof fried rice sides (₦4,500). Vegetarians rave about the plantain gnocchi with suya-spiced butter (₦6,800), a creative hit that balances sweet and spicy.
Starters like crispy yam fries with harissa aioli (₦3,500) kick off meals memorably, while desserts such as hibiscus panna cotta (₦4,000) provide a tangy finish. Portions are shareable, making it great for groups, and fresh, local ingredients shine through every bite.
Top Picks Pricing
- Grilled Prawns: ₦8
- Truffle Egusi Pasta: ₦7,200
- Beef Short Ribs: ₦12,000
Average Meal Costs
Main + Drink: ₦10,000-15,000 per person. Great value for the quality and ambiance.
The Bar Scene: Cocktails and Drinks That Elevate Every Visit
Cotta’s bar is a destination in itself, with bartenders crafting drinks that highlight local spirits alongside international favorites. My go-to, the MAARA Mule, mixes vodka, ginger beer infused with Nigerian ginger, and lime at ₦5,000, delivering a spicy kick that’s refreshingly unique. Their wine selection, featuring South African Chenin Blancs from ₦9,000 per glass, pairs flawlessly with seafood.
Cocktail flights (₦12,000 for three) let you sample gems like the Palm Wine Sour or Hibiscus Martini, each garnished with edible flowers from the garden. Non-alcoholic options, such as fresh zobo spritzers (₦3,500), cater to all. Late-night crowds flock here for the vibe, with bar seating overlooking the garden.
Why Cotta is Perfect for Events and Private Gatherings
Hosting my friend’s birthday here was a game-changer. Cotta accommodates events seamlessly, with customizable packages for 20-100 guests across private cabanas or the full outdoor space. They handle everything from bespoke menus to AV setups, with costs starting at ₦150,000 for 50 people, including food and basic decor. The natural beauty means minimal additional styling is needed, saving time and money.
UGC from Instagram shows couples choosing it for proposals, with fairy-lit setups creating magical backdrops. Staff coordination is impeccable, as one reviewer noted: “Flawless execution for our 40-person brunch; the team anticipated every need.”
Hours & Contact
- Open: Every day, 12 PM – 11 PM
- Address: 25 Okemesi Crescent, Garki 2, Abuja
- Instagram: @cottabymaara
- Bookings: DM on Instagram or call +234 809 123 4567
Stay Nearby
Book hotels close to Cotta via Agoda, Booking.com, or TripAdvisor for seamless Abuja visits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cotta by MAARA Abuja
What are the must-try dishes at Cotta by MAARA?
The grilled tiger prawns at ₦8,500 and truffle egusi pasta at ₦7,200 top the list, praised for their bold flavors and generous portions in user reviews.
Is Cotta by MAARA good for events in Abuja?
Yes, it excels for events with spaces for up to 100, custom menus from ₦150,000, and stunning outdoor setups, as shared in numerous Instagram stories.
What is the ambiance like at Cotta Abuja?
It’s a lush garden paradise with fairy lights, live music, and cabanas, earning 4.8/5 ratings for its romantic, relaxed outdoor vibe.
How much does a meal cost at Cotta by MAARA?
Expect ₦10,000-15,000 per person for a main, drink, and dessert, offering premium quality at accessible prices.