Rapa Nui Restaurant Lagos offers an extraordinary dining experience with a tropical flair. A unique Polynesian-inspired restaurant located on the beautiful shores of Lagos, Nigeria, offers rustic charm, natural beauty, and delicious food. A view of the beach is a great way to unwind, savor great food, and relax.
Key Takeaways
- Location: Rapa Nui Lagos offers beachfront dining with Polynesian cuisine, creating a tropical escape in the heart of Lagos.
- Food: The menu includes a wide range of Polynesian-inspired dishes, from poke bowls to seafood platters.
- Drinks: The tropical cocktails are a highlight, with creative presentations.
- Ambiance: The restaurant’s open-air concept and tiki décor make it a relaxing and unique spot to unwind.
- Price: A bit on the higher side, but the quality of the food and the overall experience make it worth it.
Rapa Nui Lagos Polynesian Dining
The Polynesian Triangle’s Rapa Nui Lagos takes its name from the remote Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui. There are many influences from across the Pacific Islands in Polynesian cuisine, including Hawaii, Samoa, and Tahiti. Through its flavorful, beautifully presented dishes, Rapa Nui Lagos brings this global blend to life.
Rapa Nui’s ambiance immediately transported me far from Lagos’ bustling streets. A laid-back island feel is created by wooden tiki carvings, bamboo accents, and tropical plants surrounding the dining area. The sound of waves crashing in the background and the string of fairy lights strung across the open-air deck make it feel like a tropical getaway.
Taste of Polynesia on the Menu
Rapa Nui offers an opportunity to experience authentic Polynesian cuisine. There is a fusion of flavors on the menu that pays tribute to traditional island dishes.
The following dishes are a must-try:
- Poke Bowl (₦8,500)
A refreshing mix of fresh tuna or salmon, marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil, served with rice, avocado, and seaweed salad. This healthy yet flavorful dish is a perfect appetizer to start your meal. - Loco Moco (₦9,000)
A Hawaiian classic, the Loco Moco is a hearty dish that features a beef patty served over rice, topped with a fried egg, and smothered in a savory gravy. It’s comfort food with a tropical twist. - Huli Huli Chicken (11,000)
Grilled to perfection, this marinated chicken is flavored with a unique blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and ginger, served alongside a refreshing coleslaw and rice. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes this dish stand out. - Tropical Seafood Platter (16,000)
For seafood lovers, this platter is a dream come true. Grilled prawns, calamari, and fish, all seasoned with a Polynesian-inspired blend of herbs and spices, served with a zesty pineapple salsa. - Coconut Crème Brûlée (₦5,000)
End your meal on a sweet note with this delicious crème brûlée, infused with coconut flavor and topped with caramelized sugar. It’s a delightful twist on the French classic.
Top Picks To Try:
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| SEA FOOD EMPANADAS | Mix of seafood, marinated in lemon and soy, mozzarella with sauce, served with sweet chili sauce | N7,900 |
| CHICKEN PANKO | Spring onions deep-fried, served with sauce | N7,900 |
| PRAWNS CRISPY SALAD | Large prawns deep-fried in panko/bread corn, served with mix of greens | N9,000 |
| TARO FRITTO | Sweet potato fried with coriander and spicy lemon mayonnaise | N4,900 |
| RAPA NUI FISH PEEPS SOUP | Rich fish stock with ginger, peppers, and fish | N4,900 |
| FISH CROQUETTAS | Mix of fish and cream cheese, served with coriander tartar sauce | N6,500 |
| FRIED WINGS Basketball | 10 pieces of fried wings marinated in suya-ginger, served with chili lemon coriander sauce | N8,900 |
| CHICKEN WINGS, RAPA NUI STYLE | 10 pieces of chicken marinated in ginger and garlic, grilled and served with aioli lemon sauce | N8,900 |
| MIX OF THE OCEAN AND THE GARDEN | Sautéed prawns and calamari with grilled croaker fish on a bed of fried potatoes, served with rice | N25,500 |
| WOK POLYNESIAN RICE | Sautéed rice with chicken, prawns, sesame oil, peppers, coconut milk, sweet fried potatoes, spicy mayo | N23,500 |
| SWEET BITES: Tres Leches Cake | N5,500 | |
| SWEET BITES: Coconut Flan | N3,800 | |
| SWEET BITES: Royal Pop Ice Cream | N3,200 | |
| SWEET BITES: Cup of Ice Cream | N2,900 | |
| CHICKEN RAPA NUI OR FISH PANGUS | Marinated crispy chicken served with sautéed cabbage and sweet potatoes | N9,800 |
| FISH GRILL RAPA NUI | Large fish catch of the day marinated in green curry paste and garlic oil, served with basmati rice | N26,500 |
| CHICKEN NOODLES | Stir-fried chicken with ginger, garlic, spring onions, oriental sauce, and Chinese eggs | N9,800 |
Cocktails and Drinks: Island Vibes in Every Sip
At Rapa Nui, the drinks are just as impressive as the food. The cocktail menu is brimming with tropical concoctions that will have you dreaming of sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
- Mai Tai (₦6,000): A rum-based classic with pineapple and lime juice, perfect for sipping while watching the sunset.
- Blue Lagoon (₦5,500): A vibrant blue drink made with vodka, blue curacao, and lemonade for a refreshing touch.
- Tiki Punch (₦6,500): A tropical explosion of flavors, featuring a mix of rum, passion fruit, and coconut.
The cocktail presentation is also noteworthy, with drinks often served in coconut shells or tiki mugs, adding to the Polynesian atmosphere.
The Beachfront Location
Located right on the shores of the Atlantic, Rapa Nui offers one of the most stunning dining settings in Lagos. The restaurant is designed with an open-air concept, allowing diners to enjoy the gentle ocean breeze while taking in the view of the beach. Whether you’re seated inside under the thatched roof or out on the deck, you’ll have an unparalleled view of the ocean.
During my visit, I found that the best time to go is just before sunset. Watching the sky change colors while sipping on a Mai Tai is an experience that shouldn’t be missed. You’ll often see people taking photos along the shoreline, making the most of the stunning backdrop.
Pricing and Value
While Rapa Nui Lagos might be on the pricier side compared to other restaurants in the city, the experience and the quality of the food justify the cost. Most main dishes range between ₦8,000 and ₦16,000, with appetizers and desserts in the ₦4,000 and ₦6,000 range. Cocktails are priced between ₦5,000 and ₦7,000, which is fairly standard for high-end dining in Lagos.
For a special night out, whether it’s a date, celebration, or simply a night to treat yourself, Rapa Nui offers fantastic value in terms of ambiance, location, and food quality.
Dining Options Indoors and Outdoors
You get the best of both worlds when it comes to dining options at Rapa Nui Restaurant. In the indoor dining area, you can still experience the rustic Polynesian vibe while being protected from the sun.
Even while seated indoors, the large windows allow natural light to flood the space.
For those who prefer an outdoor dining experience, the outdoor dining area gives you direct access to the beachside ambiance. As you enjoy your meal under large umbrellas, you can listen to the waves crashing against the shore.
You can enjoy a sunset dinner here while taking in the changing colors of the sky.
Dining on the beachfront roof top
Rapa Nui Restaurant’s rooftop dining area is one of its highlights. A favorite spot for visitors who want to enjoy their meals with a panoramic ocean view, the rooftop overlooks the stunning Lagos beachfront.
Feel the ocean breeze on your face while enjoying a tropical cocktail or freshly prepared seafood dish. Rapa Nui’s rooftop dining experience is perfect for a casual get-together, romantic evening, or even a special event.
Reviews and Ratings
Rapa Nui Lagos has quickly gained a reputation as one of the most unique dining experiences in Lagos. On TripAdvisor, the restaurant boasts a rating of 4.5/5 from over 100 reviews, with most visitors praising the excellent service, delicious food, and unbeatable beachfront location.
Here’s a snippet of some recent reviews:
- “The food was exceptional, and the view of the beach while dining made the experience even more special. Highly recommend the seafood platter!” Chiamaka, 5 stars
- “I’ve never had such a great combination of ambiance and cuisine in Lagos. The Poke Bowl was fresh and full of flavor. The perfect place for a relaxing evening by the beach.” Tunde, 4.5 stars
- “The cocktails were amazing, especially the Tiki Punch. It’s a little pricey, but worth every naira for the experience!” Nkechi, 4 stars
Get in Touch
Open:
- Monday from 11 a.m. to 9pm
- Tuesday – Sunday from 12pm – 10pm
Address:Â Sol Oniru by The Boxmall, Oniru, Lagos, Nigeria
Phone:Â +2349126900139
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stunning beachfront location
- Authentic Polynesian menu
- Relaxed, tropical ambiance
- Great for special occasions
Cons:
- Pricey for regular dining
- Limited indoor seating in case of bad weather
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Rapa Nui Lagos take reservations?
A: Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays when the restaurant tends to be busier.
Q: Is Rapa Nui family-friendly?
A: Absolutely! The relaxed atmosphere and open beach area make it a great spot for families. There’s even a kid’s menu with options tailored to younger diners.
Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: For the best experience, visit during sunset hours when you can enjoy both the food and the beautiful view of the sun setting over the ocean.
Q: Do they offer vegetarian or vegan options?
A: Yes, the menu includes several vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as the vegetable poke bowl and grilled tofu skewers.
Q: Is there parking available?
A: Yes, Rapa Nui offers ample parking space for visitors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Lagos, Rapa Nui is where you should be. It’s more than just a meal—it’s an escape to a tropical paradise where every detail, from the food to the décor, immerses you in Polynesian culture. While it may be a bit of a splurge, it’s an experience that’s well worth it, especially if you love the beach, good food, and island vibes.
