Danfo Bistros & Dives is a wonderful spot for visitors to the city to experience the best of Lagos. Its design and atmosphere are a tribute to one of Lagos’ iconic yellow commercial buses, known as the “Danfo,” which have become symbols of the city’s vibrant transport culture. The restaurant is a tribute to the yellow commercial buses of Lagos. There are a number of roads that lead to Danfo Bistro & Dives, but all of them lead to a culinary journey that unites cultures, celebrates diversity, and offers a sensory experience that is unlike anything else in the area.
What is Danfo Bistros & Dives?
The term Danfo in Lagos typically refers to the iconic yellow and black minibuses that roam the streets, serving as a form of affordable public transport. Inspired by this lively, fast-paced part of Lagos’s culture, Danfo Bistros & Dives are local spots where food, atmosphere, and community come together in an authentic and unapologetically Lagosian way. These places are all about serving delicious, simple meals that showcase Nigerian flavors while providing a laid-back, casual environment for people to gather, eat, and enjoy the moment.
Open: Monday-Sunday from 8 a.m.-11 p.m.
Locations:
- Ikoyi
2 Alexander Road, Off Bourdillon
Phone:Â 0812 110 0111 - Ikeja City Mall
Obafemi Awolowo Way, Alausa 101233, Ojodu
Phone:Â 0916 111 1100 - Victoria Island
225 B Etim Inyang Cres, Victoria Island, Lagos 106104
Phone:Â 0902 000 1111
Instagram:Â @danfo.bistro
Website:Â www.danfo.me
My Personal Experience at Danfo Bistros & Dives
One of the first things that stood out to me was how these bistros and dives have seamlessly combined Lagos’s street-food culture with a cozy, inviting dining experience. I had the chance to visit a few of these spots over the past few months, and each one left me with a deeper appreciation for Lagos’s culinary scene.
The Ambiance: A Vibe Like No Other
As soon as I walked into Danfo Bistro in Victoria Island, I was greeted with an unpretentious yet charming atmosphere. Think funky décor with vibrant colors, local art on the walls, and a laid-back vibe that feels both modern and nostalgic. The place was buzzing with Lagos energy—laughter, conversations, and the aroma of sizzling suya (grilled meat) filled the air. I knew right away that this was a spot that embodied the city’s heartbeat.
What really struck me was how each of these bistros blends the best of local culture with a twist of modern flair. They’re the kind of places where you can sit back, enjoy an ice-cold Star (a popular Nigerian beer), and savor local delicacies.
The Food: A Flavor Explosion
The food at Danfo Bistros & Dives is where it truly shines. Here, you’re not just eating; you’re experiencing the diverse, flavorful world of Nigerian cuisine.
Dishes to Try at Danfo Bistros & Dives
- Suya:Â This Nigerian street food classic is a must-try. Spicy, tender, and smoky, suya is usually served with sliced onions, tomatoes, and spicy pepper sauce. The suya here is grilled to perfection and absolutely packed with flavor.
- Jollof Rice: A true Nigerian staple, jollof rice is one of the most iconic dishes you can find. At Danfo Bistros, they serve a hearty version with a rich tomato-based sauce and your choice of chicken, beef, or fish.
- Pepper Soup: A comforting, spicy soup made with fish or goat meat, served in a steaming bowl that’s perfect for those rainy Lagos evenings.
- Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup:Â This classic Nigerian dish features soft, stretchy pounded yam served with a thick, savory egusi soup made from ground melon seeds, vegetables, and meat or fish.
- Moi Moi:Â This steamed bean pudding is packed with spices and often served as a side dish with Jollof rice or other main courses.
Pricing at Danfo Bistros & Dives
In terms of affordability, Danfo Bistros & Dives offer a nice balance. You can enjoy a full meal without breaking the bank, which is a major plus in Lagos. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
| Dish | Price (Naira) |
|---|---|
| Specials | |
| AMALA, EWEDU & GBEGIRI | 19,300 |
| Ofada Sauce with Scallion Rice | 18,200 |
| Ewa Agoyin | |
| Danfo Ewa Falafel (4 pieces) | 7,900 |
| Ewa Scotch Egg | 4,800 |
| Ewa Agoyin Sandwich | 10,400 |
| Add Diced Beef | 2,200 |
| Snails | |
| Peppe Snails | 22,550 |
| Habibi Snails | 20,400 |
| Suya Snails | 19,800 |
| Drumetts & Wings | |
| Habibi Wings | 9,900 |
| Danfo Wings | 12,500 |
| Beer BBQ Wings | 15,000 |
| Suya Wings | 12,500 |
| Rodo Dodo | 11,700 |
| Jollof De Fly O | 11,700 |
| Suya | |
| Skewers (Chicken or Beef) | 5,800 per skewer |
| Prawn Skewers | 16,000 |
| The Bomb | 16,700 |
| Suya Sandwich | 11,000 |
| Fish Suya Taco Wrap | 13,200 |
| Mushroom Suya Taco Wrap | 15,400 |
| Unicones | |
| Chicken Balls | 15,000 |
| Fish Balls | 17,000 |
| Asian Prawns | 19,300 |
| Danfo Crispy | |
| ¼ Chicken (By Platter) | 13,750 |
| ½ Chicken (By Platter) | 17,500 |
| ¼ Chicken (By Pieces) | 8,500 |
| ½ Chicken (By Pieces) | 13,500 |
| Add Buffalo Sauce | 2,000 |
| Peppe Dem Soup | |
| Danfo Indomie Peppe Soup | 19,500 |
| Danfo Peppe Soup | 16,500 |
| Add White Rice or Boiled Yam | 2,000 |
| Stews & Swallows | |
| Seafood Okro | 22,000 |
| Egusi Stew | 19,300 |
| Ghana Groundnut Soup | 14,000 |
| Dodo Skewers | |
| Beef (Local) | 5,800 per skewer |
| Beef (Imported) | 11,800 per skewer |
| Chicken | 6,500 per skewer |
| Prawns | 15,400 per skewer |
| Gizzard | 6,600 per skewer |
| Snails | 15,400 per skewer |
| Go Big or Go Home | |
| Family Bucket (6-4 people) | 52,000 |
| Besties Bucket (4-2 people) | 26,000 |
| De Jollof Bucket (6-4 people) | 64,000 |
| Taco Belly Full (6-4 people) | 62,000 |
| Texas Holdem (6-4 people) | 60,000 |
| Oga Chop Box (6-3 people) | 47,000 |
| Bud n Wings (4-2 people) | 35,000 |
| Sides | |
| Coleslaw | 3,300 |
| Salsa | 3,300 |
| French Fries | 3,850 |
| Plantain Fries | 3,850 |
| Yam Fries | 3,850 |
| Shaved Yam Fries | 3,850 |
| Suya Batata | 4,950 |
| Agege Bread | 1,700 |
| Harra Jollof Rice | 6,400 |
| Sauces | 2,000 |
| Burgers | |
| Classic Burger | 14,900 |
| Harlem Burger | 17,000 |
| Sloppy Friday | 15,000 |
| Freaky Fish | 15,000 |
| Oh La La Chicken | 15,000 |
| Mama Beef | 16,000 |
| Alex’s Aussie Burger | 16,000 |
| Swiss Mushroom Burger | 18,500 |
| Mozzarella Burger | 16,000 |
| Danfo Sliders | 16,000 |
| Hellfire Burger | 18,000 |
| Weekly Specials | |
| Hellfire Burger (Tuesday Special) | 18,000 |
| Ofada Sauce with Scallion Rice (Friday Special) | 18,200 |
| Pizza-Koushi | |
| Egg Pizzakoushi | 10,000 |
| 3 Peppe Pizzakoushi | 15,500 |
| Suya Pizzakoushi | 13,500 |
| Lebanese Pizzakoushi | 13,500 |
| Ciao Pizza-Koushi | 10,000 |
| Brunch | |
| Brunchi Breakfast | 11,500 |
| Ogi & Akara | 10,000 |
| Pasta | |
| Naija Spaghetti Bolognese | 11,550 |
| Danfo Ramen | 10,500 |
| Veggie Ramen | 11,000 |
| 9ja Indomie | 10,200 |
Overall, the pricing here is relatively affordable for the quality and portion size of the meals. Plus, the atmosphere and experience make it worth every naira.
The Pros and Cons of Danfo Bistros & Dives
Pros:
- Authentic Experience: You’re getting a true taste of Lagos’s vibrant street food culture in a comfortable, clean setting.
- Flavorful Dishes: The food is consistently flavorful, fresh, and expertly prepared.
- Affordability: You don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy hearty, satisfying meals.
- Casual and Welcoming: The vibe is very laid-back, perfect for solo diners or group outings.
Cons:
- Limited Vegetarian Options: While there are a few vegetarian-friendly dishes, they may not have as many choices as meat-based ones.
- Limited Parking: Like many places in Lagos, parking can be tricky in busy areas, especially during peak hours.
- Variable Service: Depending on the location and time of day, service might be a bit slow, but it’s generally friendly.
FAQs about Danfo Bistros & Dives Lagos
1. What’s the best time to visit Danfo Bistros & Dives?
The best time to visit is during the evening when the atmosphere is llivelyand you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture.
2. Are the bistros kid-friendly?
Yes! Many of the spots offer a relaxed, family-friendly environment, especially in quieter hours.
3. Can I get takeaway?
Most of the bistros offer takeaway options for those on the go or looking to enjoy the food at home.
4. Do I need a reservation?
It’s not typically necessary, but if you’re visiting during weekends or special events, it’s always a good idea to call ahead.
5. Is there a vegetarian menu?
While there are some vegetarian options, they’re limited compared to meat-based dishes.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Danfo Bistros & Dives in Lagos is an experience that should be on every traveler’s list. From the lively atmosphere to the explosive flavors, it’s a true reflection of the city’s love for great food, culture, and community. Whether you’re in the mood for suya or looking to dive into a bowl of Jollof rice, these places serve up the perfect mix of everything that makes Lagos one of the most exciting cities in the world.
If you’re planning your trip to Lagos, be sure to include these spots in your itinerary. They offer an authentic, fun, and affordable way to experience the local food scene.
