I was intrigued when I first heard about Masala Wahala, and I could not wait to try it. An authentic taste of South Indian cuisine awaits you at this vibrant eatery, which is tucked away in the heart of Abuja and offers something you can rarely find in Nigeria‘s bustling capital. In the hope of a culinary journey that would take me directly to the streets of Kerala and Tamil Nadu without having to pay for airfare, I decided to visit Masala Wahala. There is no doubt that this place does deliver on that promise; it brings a delicious slice of South India to Abuja’s doorstep, which is truly a unique experience.
Key Takeaways for Masala Wahala
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The Masala Wahala offers a variety of authentic South Indian dishes, making it one of the few places in Abuja that offers authentic South Indian dishes.
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The cozy interiors and traditional decor create an atmosphere that is both inviting and authentic with its warm, cultural ambience.
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Although it is a specialty cuisine in Nigeria, the prices are reasonable, especially considering the quality and authenticity of the food despite the fact that it is a specialty cuisine.
Here are some things to look forward to: Ambiance & Vibe
As soon as you enter Masala Wahala, you’re greeted by a bold mix of colors, traditional Indian art, and a welcoming aroma that hints at what is to come in the way of delicious flavors. Throughout the hotel’s interiors, you will find vibrant textiles, wooden accents, and intricate wall art that are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of South India. I would describe it as a cozy yet modern space, perfect for a casual evening out with friends or a family get-together. It is the warm lighting and soft Indian music playing in the background that create a relaxed, authentic atmosphere that instantly transports you to another world.
Personal Insight: “It reminded me of my trip to Kochi—walking into a small, unassuming cafĂ© only to be blown away by the flavors. Masala Wahala brings that experience to Abuja, making you feel at home even if you’ve never visited India.”
Authentic South Indian delicacies on the menu
The Indian cuisine served at Masala Wahala is undoubtedly a treasure trove for those who love the flavors of South India, particularly those who are interested in discovering its distinctive flavors. Known for its spicy, tangy, and coconut-infused dishes, South Indian cuisine is one of the most popular cuisines in the world. Here, you can find everything from dosas and idlis to seafood curries and rich, fragrant biryanis, and everything in between.
Must-Try Dishes
- Masala Dosa
Price: NGN 4,500
A crispy, thin crepe made from rice and lentil batter, filled with spiced mashed potatoes and served with coconut chutney and tangy sambar. This dish is a breakfast staple in South India, but it’s perfect any time of day. - Chicken Chettinad
Price: NGN 6,000
If you love spicy food, this one’s for you. Chicken Chettinad is a fiery curry made with freshly ground spices, coconut, and tender pieces of chicken. It’s robust, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with steamed rice. - Prawn Moilee
Price: NGN 7,000
This Kerala specialty is a creamy, coconut-based curry with plump prawns. It’s mild but deeply flavorful and goes well with appam (rice pancakes). - Vegetable Biryani
Price: NGN 5,500
South Indian biryanis are a little different—more aromatic, with fewer spices but bursting with flavors. This vegetable biryani is layered with fragrant rice, vegetables, and spices, offering a delicious vegetarian option. - Gulab Jamun
Price: NGN 1,500
End your meal with this classic Indian dessert—milk dumplings soaked in rose-flavored syrup. It’s sweet, indulgent, and the perfect finale to your South Indian feast.
Anecdote: “I grew up around diverse foods, but South Indian flavors always felt a bit out of reach. Tasting the Chicken Chettinad here took me straight to those bustling markets of Chennai with every bite. It’s amazing how food can evoke memories of places we’ve never been!”
Here are some of our top picks from the menu:
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian Options | |
| Beetroot Cutlet | Curried beet patties, crumbed and pan-fried, served with sour yoghurt dressing. |
| Fresh Mushrooms & Peppers | Sauteed with Goan Xacuti masala. |
| Cauliflower Chilli Fry | Crisp fried and tossed in yoghurt, green chilli, and curry leaves. |
| Mini Masala Dosa | Rice & lentil crepes filled with curried potatoes, served with coconut chutney and sambar. |
| Vegetarian Samosas | Potatoes, peas, Indian cheese, & fresh corn, served with tamarind chutney. |
| Sweet Potato & Cashew Fritters | Sweet potato, fresh coriander, and onion-infused cashew nut fritters. |
| Non-Vegetarian Options | |
| Crab Samosas | Claw meat with curry leaves, ginger, and green chillies. |
| Chicken Chilli Fry | Boneless chicken, tossed in yoghurt, green chillies, and curry leaves. |
| Main Courses | |
| Allapuzha Fish Curry | Boneless Nile Perch, simmered in a moderately spiced gravy with freshly ground coconut, ginger, and unripe mangoes. |
| Prawn Masala | King prawns marinated and cooked in tomatoes, mustard, and coconut masala. |
| Seafood Biryani | Giwan Ruwa (Nile Perch), king prawns, shrimps, and calamari cooked with basmati rice. |
| Seafood Moilee | Giwan Ruwa, king prawns, shrimps, calamari, and cubes of potatoes simmered in a spicy coconut and chilli sauce. |
| Grilled Jumbo (Spicy/Lemon & Oil) | Choice of spice level or lemon and olive oil flavor. |
| Accompaniments | All main courses are served with your choice of one accompaniment, except Biryani. |
| Steamed Rice | |
| Kerala Paratha (Flaky Wheat Bread) | |
| Whole Wheat Chapati (Whole Wheat Bread) | |
| Appams (Spongy Rice Pancake) |
Drinks at The Bar
A variety of beverages is available at Masala Wahala to complement your meal, including lassis, traditional yogurt-based drinks flavored with fruits and spices to accompany your meal. It is a must-try if you are looking for an invigorating option, as the Masala Chai is a blend of black tea with spices and milk for a warming finish that will make you want to stay.
In order to make your meal at Masala Wahala complete, you have to indulge in a dessert. There is nothing better than a sweet dessert to end a meal on a sweet note than the Gulab Jamun, a soft dough ball soaked in rose-scented syrup. In addition to this, you might want to try the Ras Malai, a delightful dish made with soft cheese dumplings in sweetened milk, as a more traditional alternative.
The Dining Experience
An experience like no other at Masala Wahala, where you can dine on South Indian flavors while being surrounded by a rustic and inviting ambiance. With a rustic, warm decor and a modern white background, the restaurant creates a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere that is suited to a variety of occasions. Using a variety of authentic spices and ingredients, each dish is prepared with great attention to detail, offering a wonderful journey into the diverse culinary traditions of South India. The menu offers a selection of traditional small bites such as beetroot cutlets and crab samosas, followed by rich, flavorful curries and biryanis, which can be made with seafood, chicken, or vegetarian options.
Outdoor Lounge
It provides diners seeking a relaxed atmosphere under the open sky with a refreshing escape to the outdoor lounge at Masala Wahala. A perfect blend of comfort and style is provided by the rustic wooden furniture and cushioned seating in this room. Using lush greenery as a backdrop, the lounge creates a cozy atmosphere ideal for unwinding with friends, enjoying a cocktail, or enjoying some South Indian dishes while surrounded by lush greenery.
Get in Touch
Open: Monday – Sunday from 11am – 11pm
Address:Â First Floor, Ceddi Plaza, Central Business District, Abuja
Phone:Â +23492914917
Instagram:Â @masala.wahala.abuja
Pros & Cons of Dining at Masala Wahala
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Ambiance | Cozy, cultural atmosphere that feels authentic | Limited seating; can get crowded during peak hours |
| Food Quality | Fresh ingredients, authentic recipes, and wide variety of dishes | Spicy dishes may not appeal to everyone |
| Service | Friendly staff with good knowledge of the menu | Service can be slow during peak hours |
| Value for Money | Reasonably priced for authentic South Indian cuisine | Some dishes, like seafood, are pricier |
| Accessibility | Centrally located in Abuja, easy to find | Limited parking space during weekends |
Reviews and Ratings
Masala Wahala has received excellent ratings on popular review platforms, with diners particularly praising the authenticity and bold flavors of the dishes.
- Google Reviews: 4.5/5
- TripAdvisor: 4/5
- Facebook: 4.7/5
Customer Review: “I never thought I’d find authentic dosa and Chettinad chicken in Abuja! Masala Wahala is a gem for anyone who loves South Indian flavors. Highly recommended!”
FAQ: Dining at Masala Wahala
Q: Is there a vegetarian menu?
A: Yes! South Indian cuisine is known for its vegetarian options, and Masala Wahala offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes, including vegetable curries, biryanis, and dosas.
Q: Are the dishes very spicy?
South Indian food tends to be on the spicier side, but the staff can adjust spice levels based on your preference.
Q: Do they offer takeout and delivery?
A: Yes, you can order for takeout or delivery through their website or via third-party apps like Jumia Foods.
Q: What’s the best time to visit?
A: Lunchtime and early evening are ideal. The restaurant can get quite busy during weekends, so consider making a reservation if you’re planning a weekend visit.
Q: Can they cater to dietary restrictions?
A: Yes, Masala Wahala is very accommodating to dietary needs, whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or have other restrictions.
Final Verdict: Why You Should Try Masala Wahala
Masala Wahala is a culinary gem for Abuja’s food lovers, especially those looking to explore beyond typical Nigerian flavors. The restaurant offers an authentic taste of South India that’s rarely found in Nigeria, and the combination of friendly service, bold flavors, and a welcoming ambiance makes it a must-visit. Whether you’re familiar with South Indian food or just curious to try something new, Masala Wahala provides a unique dining experience that won’t disappoint.
How to Get There
Masala Wahala is conveniently located in central Abuja, easily accessible by car or public transport. The restaurant’s location is ideal for city dwellers or visitors wanting to explore a different side of Abuja’s food scene.
Travel Tip: “Make a reservation if you plan to visit on a weekend, as this spot is becoming popular among locals and expats alike.”
