The capital city of Nigeria, Abuja, provides a wide range of culinary experiences. Restaurants in the city cater to all tastes, from street food to upscale dining. Having explored Abuja’s food scene extensively, I’ll show you some of the best restaurants you shouldn’t miss. This guide has you covered if you’re craving local Nigerian food, international flavors, or a fusion of the two. Here are my top recommendations for dining in Abuja.
Key Takeaways:
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Abuja offers a wide range of dining experiences, from local Nigerian cuisine to international flavors.
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Nkoyo and BluCabana are great for casual dining, while Zuma Grill is ideal for those seeking a luxury experience.
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Prices vary widely, with options for both budget-friendly meals and upscale gourmet dishes.
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Most restaurants have a welcoming atmosphere, but some can get crowded, so reservations are recommended.
BEST Restaurants in Abuja
1. Nkoyo Restaurant
Address: Ceddi Plaza, 264 Tafawa Balewa Way, Central Business District, Abuja
Nkoyo is one of my absolute favorites for authentic Nigerian cuisine served in a contemporary and cozy setting. The restaurant prides itself on its locally inspired dishes that celebrate the rich flavors of Nigerian ingredients.
Menu & Prices: Expect to find traditional Nigerian dishes like jollof rice, pounded yam with egusi soup, and suya (grilled spiced meat). The average meal costs between $3,000 and $7,000 ($4 to $9), which is quite reasonable given the quality.
Ambiance: The atmosphere is inviting, with warm decor that combines rustic and modern elements. It’s great for both casual dining and special occasions.
Personal Insight: I recommend their grilled tilapia—it’s seasoned to perfection, with a touch of local spices. It pairs excellently with their spicy jollof rice!
Pros:
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Diverse Nigerian menu
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Cozy atmosphere
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Affordable for the quality
Cons:
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Limited parking space during peak hours
2. BluCabana Restaurant & Café
Address: 1322 Shehu Yar’adua Way, Mabushi, Abuja
For a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine in a stylish setting, BluCabana is a must-visit. The restaurant doubles as a fitness and recreation center, making it a great spot for post-workout meals or weekend brunches.
Menu & Prices: Meals here range from ₦5,000 to ₦15,000 ($6 to $20), with a selection of fresh salads, grilled meats, and delicious seafood options. They also have excellent vegetarian options.
Ambiance: BluCabana boasts a relaxed, upscale vibe with a poolside view, making it perfect for outdoor dining. The large open space and modern decor give it an elegant yet laid-back feel.
Personal Insight: Their lamb kebab is juicy and tender—an absolute must-try. Don’t forget to try their hummus for starters!
Pros:
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Beautiful poolside dining
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Wide variety of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes
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Great for brunch or casual dining
Cons:
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Slightly on the pricier side compared to local eateries
3. The Charcoal Grill
Address: 86 Aminu Kano Cres, Wuse 2, Abuja
If you’re in the mood for expertly grilled meats and seafood, The Charcoal Grill is the place to be. It has a reputation for delivering some of the finest barbecue in Abuja, making it a popular spot among meat lovers.
Menu & Prices: Meals range between ₦4,000 and ₦12,000 ($5 to $16), depending on your choice of grill. The lamb chops, chicken skewers, and grilled prawns are highly recommended.
Ambiance: The restaurant’s cozy and rustic setting makes it a perfect choice for intimate dinners. There’s also a well-stocked bar for those who want to unwind after their meal.
Personal Insight: I absolutely loved their mixed grill platter—it’s a generous portion of beef, chicken, and lamb, served with sides of fries or rice.
Pros:
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Fantastic barbecue dishes
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Relaxed and intimate setting
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Perfect for date nights
Cons:
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Can get crowded on weekends, so reservations are recommended
4. Wakkis Restaurant
Address: 171 Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja
Wakkis is the go-to spot for Indian food enthusiasts. Situated in the heart of Abuja, it offers an extensive menu of Indian dishes, from creamy curries to delicious naan bread.
Menu & Prices: Expect to spend between₦4,000 and₦10,000 ($5 to $13). Popular dishes include butter chicken, lamb biryani, and samosas. The flavors are authentic, and the portions are generous.
Ambiance: The open kitchen concept allows diners to watch chefs prepare meals on a traditional clay tandoor. The ambiance is lively yet cozy, making it great for family gatherings or group dinners.
Personal Insight: Their chicken tikka masala is rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced. If you love Indian food, this dish will hit the spot!
Pros:
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Authentic Indian cuisine
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Large portions
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Vegetarian-friendly
Cons:
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Limited parking space
5. Zuma Grill (at Transcorp Hilton)
Address: 1 Aguiyi Ironsi St, Maitama, Abuja
Located inside the prestigious Transcorp Hilton, Zuma Grill offers a fine dining experience with a focus on high-quality steaks, seafood, and gourmet dishes.
Menu & Prices: This is a luxury dining spot, with meals costing between ₦10,000 and ₦25,000 ($13 to $32). The rib-eye steak and lobster tail are worth every penny.
Ambiance: Zuma Grill exudes elegance, with dim lighting and sophisticated decor. The service is impeccable, making it ideal for business dinners or special occasions.
Personal Insight: Their grilled salmon is perfectly cooked and pairs wonderfully with their creamy mashed potatoes. While it’s on the pricier side, it’s perfect for a fancy night out.
Pros:
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Excellent service
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High-quality gourmet dishes
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Perfect for upscale dining
Cons:
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Expensive
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best restaurant in Abuja for Nigerian food?
A: Nkoyo Restaurant is highly recommended for its authentic Nigerian dishes, including jollof rice, pounded yam, and grilled tilapia.
Q: Are there vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Abuja?
A: Yes, BluCabana and Wakkis offer great vegetarian options, particularly Mediterranean and Indian dishes.
Q: What is the most expensive restaurant in Abuja?
A: Zuma Grill at Transcorp Hilton is among the priciest, with meals averaging between ₦10,000 and ₦25,000 ($13 to $32).
Q: Can I make reservations at these restaurants?
A: Yes, it’s advisable to make reservations at popular spots like The Charcoal Grill and Zuma Grill, especially during peak hours.
