TL;DR
Looking for the best Indian food in Lagos? From the rich, aromatic biryanis of Cilantro Ikeja to the elegant fine dining ambiance of Cilantro Lagos, this guide dives deep into the top must-visit Indian restaurants in Lagos State.
Discover authentic flavors, standout dishes, customer experiences, pricing, and more—all vetted through firsthand visits and genuine reviews. Whether you crave a casual meal in Lekki or a refined feast on Adeola Odeku, this post has you covered.
Jump directly to restaurant details
Why Lagos Enjoys Stellar Indian Cuisine
Growing up in Lagos, I’ve always been fascinated by the city’s culinary diversity, and Indian cuisine has carved out a special place in the hearts of many locals. Lagos’s vibrant food scene, enriched by its multicultural fabric, allows Indian restaurants to thrive by offering authentic, richly spiced dishes that appeal both to Indian expatriates and Nigerian diners seeking new flavors.
Over the years, I’ve personally explored numerous Indian eateries across Lagos, each bringing unique touches to classic recipes. What stands out most is the balance between staying true to authentic Indian culinary traditions while catering to local tastes and expectations for ambiance and service.
In-Depth Reviews of the Best Indian Restaurants in Lagos
Cilantro Lagos – Fine Dining with Authentic Flair
Rating: 4.4 (1.9K reviews) | Price Range: ₦20,000+ |Address: 7 Musa Yar’Adua St
Walking into Cilantro Lagos feels like stepping into a refined Indian palace—tastefully decorated with ambient lighting that perfectly complements a relaxed but sophisticated dining experience. The staff here is genuinely attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, enhancing the overall process.
My favorite dish during multiple visits has been their butter chicken and garlic naan, each bite showcasing the creamy richness and balanced spices that define authentic North Indian cuisine. The ambiance here is perfect for celebrations or business dinners.
Pondicheri – Casual Indian Dining with Delightful Service
Rating: 4.2 (1K reviews) | Price Range: ₦₦ | Address: 2 Folayemi St
Pondicheri offers a warm and inviting ambiance perfect for quick lunches or relaxed dinners. The accent on customer service truly shines here—staff are eager to explain dishes and recommend the best pairings.
Their vegetarian samosas and tandoori grilled items stand out in particular, with bold flavors that don’t compromise on authenticity. It’s one of those spots where you feel welcomed and eager to return.
Cilantro Ikeja—Legendary Chicken Biryani and More
Rating: 4.8 (1.4K reviews) | Price Range: ₦20,000+ |Address: 26 Isaac John St
Hands down, the chicken biryani here is a flavor powerhouse—rich, aromatic, and layered with spices that transport diners straight to the heart of India. It’s no surprise this place is rated as one of the best in Lagos by locals and visitors alike.
The interior is modern yet welcoming, and I’ve found the service to be consistently top-notch. It’s a perfect destination, whether for a business lunch or a special weekend treat.
THE SPICE ROUTE – Vibrant Indian Flavors in Victoria Island
Rating: 4.5 (142 reviews) | Price Range: ₦20,000+ Address: 36 Adeola Odeku St
This restaurant stands out in Victoria Island for exceptional food and service. THE SPICE ROUTE brings bold, intense Indian spices to beautifully plated dishes in a stylish setting.
I particularly enjoyed their lamb rogan josh—tender,ich, and perfectly spiced, with sides that elevate the dining experience. The staff’s warm welcome makes every visit special.
Chapter Lagos—Modern Indian Culinary Artistry
Rating: 4.3 (173 reviews) | Price Range: Mid-range | Address: Level 4, 1623 Saka Jojo St
Chapter Lagos offers a refreshing modern twist on traditional Indian dishes, presented in a contemporary setting full of light and clean design. My visit here was memorable thanks to the creative fusion dishes that blend Indian spices with global culinary trends.
Their innovative chaat plates are a must-try and an exciting departure from classic fare—perfect for foodies looking to explore beyond the usual menus.
7 Hills Indian Restaurant – Exquisite Cuisine by an Indian Chef
Rating: 4.8 (2.6K reviews) | Price Range: €15–20 | Location: Lagos, Portugal (Note this one is outside Lagos Nigeria)
While not in Lagos State, 7 Hills’ reputation for fresh, authentic Indian cooking by a seasoned chef is worth mentioning for those traveling internationally. The freshness and care in every dish make it a coveted spot.
This example shows the global appeal and high standards Indian cuisine demands and inspires restaurants in Lagos to match these levels.
Zaika Indian & Chinese Food (Lekki)—Affordable Excellence
Rating: 4.9 (323 reviews) | Price Range: ₦2,000–4,000 |Address: Lekki
Zaika in Lekki offers one of the most budget-friendly options without compromising flavor or ambiance. Their popular dishes include garlic naan and spicy chicken tikka, all served in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Many locals rave about Zaika’s ability to deliver authentic Indian taste while maintaining fast, friendly service. It’s a perfect spot for casual dining and families.
Royal Indian Cuisine Lagos—Impressive Interiors & Flavor
Rating: 4.8 (899 reviews) | Price Range: €15–25 | Location: Lagos, Portugal (Note: outside Lagos Nigeria)
Another Lagos—Portugal spot known for both presentation and authentic taste. While a bit far from Nigeria’s Lagos, it’s worthwhile for food aficionados looking for remarkable Indian cuisine enhanced by stylish decor.
Zaika Indian & Chinese Food (Ilupeju)—Surprising Experience for Non-Fans
Rating: 4.5 (1.2K reviews) | Price Range: ₦₦ | Address: 1st floor, 2 Obanle Aro Avenue Coker Road Round About, opp. Fidelity Bank Plc
Not traditionally a fan of Indian cuisine myself, I was pleasantly surprised at Zaika’s Ilupeleju outlet. The balance of flavors and aromatics made it an unexpectedly worthwhile experience.
Its dual Indian and Chinese menu offers diversity for groups with mixed tastes, making it an excellent option in the commercial district.
Mantra Lounge and Restaurant – Inviting Atmosphere & Flavorful Food
Rating: 4.4 (116 reviews) | Price Range: ₦20,000+ | Address: 2, 4 Adeola Odeku St
Mantra Lounge stands out for its welcoming staff and consistently tasty dishes. The restaurant’s vibe is sophisticated yet comfortable, ideal for relaxing after a busy day.
From my visits, their butter chicken and hot masala chai were personal highlights. Service always felt warm and accommodating, creating a memorable dining session.
Frequently Asked Questions About Indian Restaurants in Lagos
What is the price range for Indian food in Lagos?
Indian restaurants in Lagos typically range from affordable meals around ₦2,000 to fine dining experiences exceeding ₦20,000 per person, depending on the restaurant and menu selection.
Which Indian restaurant serves the best chicken biryani in Lagos?
Cilantro Ikeja is widely regarded as serving the best chicken biryani in Lagos, known for its rich, flavorful spices and perfectly cooked rice.
Are there Indian restaurants with vegetarian options in Lagos?
Yes, almost all listed Indian restaurants offer extensive vegetarian menus, featuring classics like samosas, paneer dishes, and various lentil curries.
Which Indian restaurants in Lagos have the best ambiance?
Cilantro Lagos, Mantra Lounge, and THE SPICE ROUTE are known for their exquisite ambiance suitable for fine dining and special occasions.
Can I find Indian restaurants in Lagos with Indian and Chinese fusion?
Zaika Indian & Chinese Food locations in Lekki and Ilupeju combine Indian and Chinese cuisine, offering a wide variety for diverse tastes.
Final Tip from a Food Explorer
When visiting these Indian restaurants, don’t hesitate to ask staff for their recommended dishes or spice levels—most places happily customize your order to suit your preference. Exploring Indian cuisine in Lagos offers a beautiful journey of flavors, and the best way to capture that is to try a variety of dishes and savor the stories behind each plate.
