There is no doubt that Abuja is not only Nigeria‘s capital, but it is also known as a thriving hub for international flavors, offering a wide variety of dishes that are popular with those who are seeking a taste of culture around the world. Over the years, the city has attracted a variety of restaurants representing cultures from around the world, ranging from the spicy vibrancy of Mexican cuisine to the comforting warmth of Italian dishes that have attracted many people to this city over the years. The list below features Abuja’s top ten foreign cuisines that will make you feel like you’re traveling across continents without having to leave the city—each a unique journey that will make you feel like you’re traveling across continents without ever leaving the city—as someone who’s wandered through these culinary wonders.
Key Takeaways
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Whether it be Italian classics or spicy Mexican bites, Abuja’s culinary scene offers a world of options for people of all cultures.
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A lot of restaurants are going above and beyond to provide authentic flavors by sourcing ingredients from local farmers.
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There is no doubt that ambience plays a major role when it comes to creating an immersive experience, such as Kapadoccia and Casa Mexicana.
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With a wide variety of choices to suit all tastes, whether you’re in the mood for Japanese, Chinese, or Turkish cuisine, there’s something here to suit every taste.
Here is a list of the top 10 foreign cuisines in Abuja.
1. Ciao Italia—Italian Cuisine
Those who love authentic Italian flavors and who love authentic Italian cuisine should not miss out on Ciao Italy. With its charming setting, this restaurant offers a taste of Italy in Abuja along with its wide selection of classic Italian dishes like pasta, risotto, and wood-fired pizzas, all of which are prepared with the best ingredients available. Among the many delicious dishes on the menu, there are the Spaghetti Carbonara, Margherita Pizza, and Tiramisu, which are all made from fresh, high-quality ingredients. Known for its cozy atmosphere, along with a fine wine selection, this restaurant is an excellent choice for a romantic dinner with your loved one or a family gathering.
A must-try dish at this restaurant is the lasagna al forno
The restaurant is open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Sunday
The address of the park is Central Park, Wuse 2, Abuja
Please call 0704 700 2426 if you have any questions
Instagram: @ciaoitaliaabuja
Personal Insight: “The first time I tasted their spaghetti carbonara, it reminded me of a meal I once had in Florence—a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly smoky flavors.”
Why You’ll Love It: Ciao Italia brings the Italian tradition of slow-cooked, handcrafted food to Abuja. The ambiance is cozy and intimate, making it ideal for romantic dinners or small group gatherings.
2. Stroop Pops—Dutch Cuisine
Stroop Pops brings you the sweet and savory flavors of the Netherlands to Abuja for a truly unique Dutch experience. Aside from its Stroopwafels (thin waffles filled with caramel syrup), this place is also known for its assortment of Dutch street food, such as bitterballen and poffertjes (mini pancakes). If you are looking for a quick snack or dessert in the heart of Abuja, this place is a great choice for you, offering you a taste of traditional Dutch desserts.
There is one dish you must try: stroopwafels with caramel.
Open from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Monday through Sunday
It is located at No. 1 Konoko Crescent, Wusi 2, Abuja, Nigeria.
Call us at +234 704 133 4444 if you have any questions
Instagram: @strooppops
Personal Insight: “The stroopwafels here are as close as it gets to the ones I had in Amsterdam, warm and gooey with just the right amount of caramel.”
Popular Menu Items:
- Classic Stroopwafel: ₦1,200
- Stroopwafel Ice Cream Sandwich: $2,500
Why You’ll Love It: Stroop Pops adds a unique twist to Abuja’s dessert scene. This spot is perfect for a casual treat, with several waffle toppings that offer variety.
3. Casa Mexicana: Mexican Cuisine
It is no secret that Casa Mexicana is one of the go-to spots for those who enjoy Mexican food. You will find a colorful menu of classic Mexican foods such as tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and guacamole on this vibrant restaurant’s menu. In addition to the bold flavors, the dish also comes with a spicy kick that is sure to set your taste buds on fire. This restaurant is ideal for group dinners as well as a night out with friends due to its lively atmosphere and fun decor.
The best dish to try is beef tacos with salsa verde, a must-try dish
Open Monday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
It is located on the 1st floor of Ceddi Plaza, Tafawa Balewa, Abuja’s Central Business District
Phone: 08176 333 222
Facebook: Casa Mexicana The Restaurant
Instagram: @casa_mexicanaabuja
Personal Insight: “Their guacamole is a standout—fresh, creamy, and packed with flavor, just like I remember from my trip to Cancun.”
Top Picks:
- Tacos al Pastor: ₦5,000
- Quesadillas: ₦4,500
- Guacamole & Chips: ₦3,000
Pros and Cons
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Authenticity | Fresh ingredients | Limited vegetarian options |
| Ambiance | Festive, lively decor | Can be noisy at peak hours |
Why You’ll Love It: Casa Mexicana is a lively place to enjoy traditional Mexican dishes in Abuja, ideal for sharing plates with friends in a casual, fun environment.
4. Field and Ocean Abuja – Japanese Cuisine
Known for its outstanding offerings of sushi, sashimi, and teppanyaki, Fields and Oceans invites you to indulge in the delicate and intricate world of Japanese cuisine. Featuring a sleek, modern design, this restaurant creates a peaceful ambience that enhances our dining experience by creating a serene atmosphere. From salmon nigiri to wagyu beef rolls, the menu has something for everyone, whether you are a sushi connoisseur or are brand new to Japanese cuisine.
The Dragon Roll Sushi is a must-try dish at the restaurant
Open:
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Restaurant 12noon-10pm (Tues-Sun)
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Butchery 9am-7pm (Mon-Sat)
Located on Dar-Es-Salam Street off Aminu Kano Crescent in Wuse 2, Abuja, is HSE 4 Dar-Es-Salam Street.
Phone: 0903 771 8482
Instagram: @fieldandoceanng
Personal Insight: “As a sushi lover, I was thrilled by their Spicy Tuna Roll. The flavors were fresh and vibrant, just like sushi spots in Tokyo.”
Must-Try Dishes:
- Spicy Tuna Roll: $7,000
- Miso Soup: ₦2,000
- Tempura Plate: ₦6,000
Why You’ll Love It: Field and Ocean’s Japanese menu is extensive, offering everything from sushi to tempura. It’s a premium experience for anyone who loves Japanese cuisine.
5. Masala Wahala—Indian Cuisine
There is no better place to get a taste of the rich and aromatic flavors of India than Masala Wahala. As the name suggests, this restaurant offers authentic Indian dishes that are prepared with herbs and spices from traditional Indian cooking. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes such as Butter Chicken, Lamb Rogan Josh, and Paneer Tikka, along with naan breads and biryanis that are popular choices. It is a fantastic place for a family dinner or a casual lunch with friends because of the vibrant decor and welcoming atmosphere.
Dish to Try: Chicken Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan—A Must-Try!
The restaurant is open from Monday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The address is: First Floor, Ceddi Plaza, Central Business District, Abuja, Nigeria
Call us at +23492914917 or send us an email
Instagram: @masala.wahala.abuja
Personal Insight: “Their butter chicken reminded me of the bustling streets of Mumbai, where every bite is a spicy adventure.”
Signature Dishes:
- Butter Chicken: ₦5,500
- Biryani: ₦4,800
- Garlic Naan: ₦1,500
Why You’ll Love It: Masala Wahala excels in providing a true Indian culinary experience, from flavorful curries to freshly baked naan.
6. Woks and Koi—Chinese Cuisine
As a favorite destination for Chinese food enthusiasts in Abuja, Woks and Koi have been around for a long time. With its elegant interior and comprehensive menu, the restaurant is known for its mix of traditional Chinese dishes like Peking Duck, Sweet and Sour Chicken, and Kung Pao Shrimp, among many others. Despite the bold flavors, these dishes are balanced, with the emphasis being placed on fresh ingredients and authentic preparation techniques. It doesn’t matter if what you’re celebrating is a casual lunch with friends or a special occasion; Woks and Koi is a great choice.
The Crispy Peking Duck dish is one of the must-try dishes at the restaurant
Open Monday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
There is an address at 18 Durban Street, Wuse, Abuja 904101, Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria.
Please call 0909 347 6816 if you have any questions
Instagram: @woksandkoi
Personal Insight: “I’m a fan of their Peking Duck—it’s cooked to perfection with crispy skin and tender meat, exactly as it should be.”
Highlights:
- Dim Sum: ₦3,000 per basket
- Peking Duck: ₦8,000
- Fried Rice: ₦3,500
Why You’ll Love It: Woks and Koi’s extensive Chinese menu is perfect for family dining, offering various flavors and styles to explore.
7. Anatolia—Turkish Cuisine
There is no place like Anatolia to experience the rich flavors of Turkey, a popular restaurant that serves authentic Turkish cuisine. In addition to the kebabs, mezes, and desserts available on the menu, an array of kebabs and mezes are also available. Guests who dine at the restaurant will be greeted with a heartwarming and welcoming atmosphere, combined with excellent service, making their dining experience one to remember. In order to complete your meal, make sure to try their Adana Kebab or Lahmacun (Turkish flatbread topped with minced meat), and then finish your meal with a pot of strong Turkish coffee.
The Mixed Grill Platter is one of the dishes that you must try
The restaurant is open from Monday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
It is located at BMT African Gardern, Wuse 2, Abuja, Nigeria.
Please call 09022925555 if you have any questions
Instagram: @anatolia_ng
Website: www.anatoliarestaurant.com.ng
Personal Insight: “The lamb kebabs transported me back to Istanbul, with their perfect seasoning and tenderness.”
Top Dishes:
- Lamb Kebab: ₦6,500
- Hummus and Bread: ₦2,500
- Turkish Tea: ₦1,000
Why You’ll Love It: Anatolia is a fantastic option for sampling authentic Turkish flavors in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
8. Istanbul Restaurant – Turkish Cuisine
The Istanbul Restaurant is a fantastic choice for anyone interested in experiencing another taste of Turkey, with its diverse menu of traditional Turkish dishes on offer. Besides the freshly baked pide (Turkish pizza), the restaurant also offers hearty lamb dishes as well as delicious dips, such as hummus and baba ghanoush, that are sure to delight your taste buds. It is a great place both for lunch and dinner, as the ambiance is casual and refined at the same time.
A must-try dish at the restaurant is the lamb shish kebab
Open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Sunday
Located at Jabi Lake Mall, Shop L32/33, Abuja, Nigeria.
Instagram: @istanbulcaferestaurantng
Website: www.istanbulrestaurantcafe.com
Personal Insight: “Their baklava is simply divine—flaky, buttery, and satisfyingly sweet.”
Menu Highlights:
- Baklava: ₦2,000
- Mixed Grill Plate: ₦7,500
Why You’ll Love It: Istanbul Restaurant is all about hearty meals and vibrant Turkish hospitality, making it a popular spot for a memorable dining experience.
9. Kapadoccia: Turkish Cuisine
There is no doubt that Kapadoccia is a unique dining destination inspired by the famous Cappadocian region of Turkey. As part of its ambiance, the restaurant is known for having cave-like interiors and a cozy environment while serving traditional Turkish food with a contemporary twist. Each item on our menu, from succulent lamb dishes to flavorful rice pilafs to delectable Turkish desserts, is carefully crafted with care to ensure that it will exceed the highest standards for quality. In addition to the ambience of the restaurant, it is also the perfect place to enjoy a romantic date or an evening out with friends.
There is one dish that you must try: Manti (Turkish dumplings)
The restaurant is open from 11AM to 11PM every day of the week
The address is 2 Kinda Street, Wuse 2, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.
Phone: 0802 061 5379
Instagram: @kapadoccia_abuja
Personal Insight: “Dining here feels like an adventure in itself. The ambiance sets the perfect mood for a special meal.”
Highlights:
- Doner Kebab—₦6,000
- Turkish Delight: ₦1,800
Why You’ll Love It: Kapadoccia’s unique setting and authentic Turkish menu make it an unforgettable destination for food and atmosphere lovers alike.
10. Tar Tar Restaurant (Asian Fusion Cuisine)
When it comes to Asian fusion cuisines, Tar Tar Restaurant in Wuse 2 is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Asia. A combination of Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian flavors can be found in the restaurant, making it as much of a culinary adventure as it is a dining destination. Using fresh and high-quality ingredients, sushi rolls, Thai green curry, and Korean BBQ are prepared with a creative twist, using fresh and high-quality ingredients to prepare these dishes. Foodies and influencers alike are attracted to the chic interior design and sophisticated vibe of this restaurant.
The Spicy Tuna Roll is one of the must-try dishes in the restaurant
Open:
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Breakfast/Lunch Time: Monday to Sunday 10.30am – 3:00pm
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Dinner Time: Monday to Sunday from 5.30pm – 11:00pm
It is located at 5 Sorotona Close Wuse 2, off Blantyre Street in Abuja.
Instagram: @tartarabuja
Website: www.tartarabuja.com
FAQs
Q: Are these restaurants family-friendly?
A: Yes, most of these restaurants offer family-friendly dining experiences.
Q: Can I get vegetarian options?
A: Many of these spots offer vegetarian options, especially the Italian and Indian restaurants.
Q: Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are recommended for popular spots like Kapadoccia and Casa Mexicana, especially on weekends.
The experience of exploring these restaurants in Abuja does not only fill your belly but also feeds your soul. In this departure from the usual dining experience, each dish tells a story, each ambiance creates a mood, and together, they offer a passport-free culinary adventure around the world.
