There is a vibrant food scene in Lagos, Nigeria’s cultural and economic hub, where local flavors blend seamlessly with fine dining. A hidden gem on Victoria Island is Stories Restaurant, a haven for food lovers and experience seekers. This review will offer insight into the ambiance, menu offerings, and overall dining experience at Stories Restaurant. After reading this review, you’ll know if this restaurant deserves a place on your Lagos dining itinerary.
First Impressions: Location and Ambiance
Located on the trendy streets of Admiralty Way, Victoria Island, Stories Restaurant stands out in a sea of Lagos eateries for its unique concept. Walking up to the restaurant, I was immediately drawn to its modern exterior, with sleek glass windows and warm lighting that hinted at the cozy experience inside. The entrance was flanked by lush plants, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for an intimate dining experience or a casual outing with friends.
Upon stepping inside, I was greeted by a well-thought-out interior design—a combination of modern minimalism with subtle African influences. The restaurant features comfortable seating arrangements, dim lighting, and soft background music that complements the vibrant Lagos skyline view from the large windows. The attention to detail in the decor is evident, with artistic pieces that tell a story (no pun intended) about the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Key Takeaways:
- Location: Conveniently situated in Victoria Island, a prime location for upscale dining.
- Ambiance: Modern, cozy, with a touch of African aesthetics. Perfect for both casual and intimate dining.
- Seating options: Indoor and outdoor seating are available, with the outdoor section offering a stunning view of the Lagos skyline.
The Menu: A Global Fusion of Flavors
When it comes to food, Stories Restaurant does not disappoint. Their menu is a delightful fusion of international and local flavors, showcasing a variety of dishes that cater to diverse palates. From traditional Nigerian dishes with a modern twist to Italian and Asian-inspired options, there’s something for everyone.
I started my meal with the spicy seafood platter, a combination of grilled shrimp, calamari, and lobster tail. The seafood was fresh, cooked to perfection, and beautifully seasoned. The accompanying spicy sauce provided just the right amount of kick to tantalize the taste buds without overpowering the natural flavors of the seafood.
For the main course, I opted for the grilled lamb chops with a side of jollof rice—a popular West African dish. The lamb was tender and juicy with a perfectly charred exterior that added a smoky flavor. The jollof rice was an unexpected but delightful pairing, rich in tomato flavors and aromatic spices.
On a second visit, I decided to try their prawn pasta, a creamy dish that combined succulent prawns with al dente spaghetti. The portion was generous, and the flavors were well-balanced, though I found the dish to be a bit on the richer side.
For dessert, I couldn’t resist the chocolate lava cake. This indulgent dessert was everything you’d expect: warm, gooey, and utterly satisfying. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it was the perfect way to end the meal.
Key Takeaways:
- Cuisine: A mix of Nigerian, Asian, and Italian influences.
- Signature dishes: Seafood platter, grilled lamb chops, prawn pasta, and chocolate lava cake.
- Portion sizes: Generous, ensuring value for money.
- Price range: Moderate to high, typical of restaurants in Victoria Island.
Top Picks to Try:
| Dish | Description | Price (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| MAIN DISH | ||
| Stories Classic Fish | Barracuda fish in Stew Sauce served with basmati rice or French fries. | 22,000 |
| Fish & Dodo | Grilled stewed Barracuda with vegetable and served with plantain. | 22,000 |
| Jollof Prawns | Diced prawns mixed with Jollof served with Barracuda fish. | 25,000 |
| Jacky Rice | Basmati rice & goat meat stew with boiled eggs & plantains. | 25,000 |
| Grilled Tiger Prawns | Grilled jumbo prawns served with rice or French fries & steamed vegetables. | 32,000 |
| Pork Ribs | Spare ribs in honey sauce served with French fries or rice & grilled vegetables. | 30,000 |
| Oxtail | Served with old-school sauce, basmati jollof and fried plantains. | 38,000 |
| T. Bone Steak (250g) | Served with steamed vegetables, rice or French fries. | 43,500 |
| Grilled Salmon | Served with steamed vegetables and rice or mashed potato. | 40,000 |
| Rib Eye Steak | Served with steamed vegetables, rice or chips. | 43,500 |
| Lamb Chops | Served with old school sauce, basmati jollof rice and vegetables. | 43,500 |
| OSS Obuco | Served with old school sauce, basmati jollof rice and fried plantains. | 22,000 |
| Pan Fried Fish | Served with steamed vegetables, rice or chips. | 35,000 |
| SOUPS | ||
| Goat Pepper Soup | Diced goat served in spicy broth with Irish potato. | 22,000 |
| Fisherman Pepper Soup | Fresh fish, shrimp, and snail served with Irish potato. | 25,000 |
| Chicken Soup | Poached chicken in a creamy broth with parsley garnish. | 15,000 |
| Oxtail Farm Style P/S | Imported oxtail in a spicy broth. | 26,000 |
| Fish Pepper Soup | Diced fresh barracuda fish served in spicy broth. | 20,500 |
| Chicken Pepper Soup | 20,500 | |
| PASTA | ||
| Spaghetti Bolognaise | Minced beef simmered in tomato sauce. | 20,000 |
| Cajun Pasta | Shredded chicken breast, prawns, onions, and pepper in a cajun sauce. | 24,000 |
| Seafood Arrabiata | Calamari, prawns, and shrimp served in tomato sauce. | 27,500 |
| Chicken Arrabiata | Shredded chicken breast with pasta in tomato sauce. | 22,500 |
| Stories Stir Fry Special | Pasta with mixed grilled chicken, vegetables, and prawns. | 26,000 |
| Seafood Alfredo | Calamari, shrimp, and prawns in creamy sauce. | 28,000 |
| Carbonara Pasta | Bacon, mushroom, chicken, and black pepper in creamy sauce. | 22,000 |
| Stories Pasta Remix | Diced goat meat in pepper sauce over a bowl of pasta. | 24,000 |
| Salmon Pasta | 30,000 | |
| Stories Creamy Thai Turmeric Chicken | Char-grilled chicken breast with vermicelli in a turmeric broth with poached eggs. | 28,000 |
Service: Attentive and Friendly
Great food is only part of the experience; exceptional service can make or break a dining experience. I found the staff at Stories Restaurant to be attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and quick to offer recommendations when asked. I particularly appreciated the pacing of the service—there was no rush, allowing ample time to savor each course.
During one of my visits, the restaurant manager even stopped by to check on our experience, which added a personal touch to the service. It’s clear that the staff takes pride in creating a welcoming environment, which made my dining experience all the more enjoyable.
Key Takeaways:
- Service quality: friendly, attentive, and professional.
- Personal touch: Staff and management go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.
- Wait time: minimal, with dishes arriving at a relaxed, comfortable pace.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Diverse Menu: There’s something for everyone, from Nigerian classics to international dishes.
- Beautiful Ambiance: A thoughtfully designed space that’s great for all occasions.
- Excellent Service: Attentive staff who are knowledgeable and polite.
Cons:
- Price: It’s on the higher end, which may not be ideal for budget-conscious diners.
- Portion Richness: Some dishes, like the prawn pasta, can be quite rich and may not appeal to those seeking lighter meals.
Get in Touch
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday from 10am to 12am
Address: 19 Da Silva, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria
Phone: 0903 649 9010
Instagram: @storieslagos
FAQs
1. Is Stories Restaurant family-friendly?
- Yes, the restaurant offers a comfortable atmosphere that is suitable for families, though the overall vibe leans more towards adults. There are kid-friendly menu options available as well.
2. Does Stories Restaurant offer vegetarian options?
- Yes, the menu includes vegetarian dishes, though it is somewhat limited. Options such as grilled vegetables and salads are available, and the kitchen is accommodating to dietary preferences.
3. Is there parking available at the restaurant?
- Yes, Stories Restaurant provides adequate parking space for guests, which is a huge plus, especially in the busy Victoria Island area.
4. Can I host private events at Stories Restaurant?
- Absolutely. Stories Restaurant is a great venue for private events, from birthday celebrations to corporate gatherings. You can reserve sections of the restaurant or the entire space, depending on the size of your party.
5. Do they offer takeout or delivery?
- Yes, Stories Restaurant offers both takeout and delivery options through various food delivery platforms.
Final Thoughts: Is Stories Restaurant Worth the Visit?
After my visits to Stories Restaurant, I can confidently say that this is a must-try dining spot for anyone in Lagos. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the combination of a welcoming atmosphere, a diverse and flavorful menu, and attentive service makes Stories Restaurant a top-tier dining experience.
While the prices may be on the higher side, the quality of the food, the creativity of the menu, and the overall dining experience make it worth the splurge. If you’re in Victoria Island and looking for a place to enjoy a memorable meal with a view, Stories Restaurant should be at the top of your list.
For food lovers looking to explore Lagos’ vibrant culinary scene, Stories Restaurant tells a story you won’t want to miss!
Key Takeaways:
- Ambiance: A modern, stylish, and cozy restaurant with African-inspired decor.
- Cuisine: A fusion of local and international flavors, featuring everything from seafood platters to grilled lamb chops.
- Service: friendly, professional, and attentive.
- Price: higher-end, but worth it for the quality of food and experience.
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