Craving authentic Italian pasta in Lagos? From silky carbonara and seafood linguine to creamy Alfredo and pesto-rich penne, this guide breaks down 11 of the most reliable, delicious, and aesthetically stunning pasta restaurants in Lagos. Whether you’re dining fine in Victoria Island or seeking cozy charm in Ikeja, each spot offers something distinct—and absolutely worth twirling your fork for.
Why Lagos is the Pasta Paradise You Didn’t See Coming
I’ve always believed that a good pasta dish can change the trajectory of your day. Lagos, with its evolving culinary scene, has surprised me over and over with restaurants that not only get the basics right but also add their own twist. I’ve personally visited every single one of these spots, tried their pasta dishes, and left with high expectations met—and sometimes exceeded.
1. The Smiths—Modern Elegance Meets Classic Italian
There’s something about The Smiths that instantly elevates your night. From the plush interior to the chic crowd, it’s where you go when you want pasta with a side of class.
Why I Love It:
Their truffle cream fettuccine was rich and fragrant, and the plating? Absolutely Instagram-worthy.
Address: 16 Akin Adesola, Victoria Island, Lagos
Budget: ₦18,000–₦30,000
Instagram: @thesmith
2. The A Steakhouse—For When You Want Surf, Turf, and Pasta
Don’t let the name fool you—The A Steakhouse takes pasta seriously. It’s where I had one of the best seafood linguine dishes in Lagos.
What to Try:
Their creamy lobster pasta is decadently good—ideal for special nights.
Address: 1 Karimu Kotun Street, Victoria Island
Budget: ₦25,000–₦40,000
Instagram: @theasteakhouse
3. Farfallino Lagos—Where Wine and Pasta Make Magic
Farfallino’s interior is as elegant as their menu. This is one of the few spots where the pasta feels authentically Italian. Their wine pairings? Spot on.
Personal Pick:
The tagliatelle with mushroom and truffle oil—creamy, earthy, and balanced.
Address: 25 Ozumba Mbadiwe Street, Victoria Island
Budget: ₦26,000–₦40,000
Instagram: @farfallinolagos
4. Ci Gusta Lagos—Italian Simplicity, Nigerian Heart
Ci Gusta is the neighborhood Italian café that gets all the little things right. It’s my go-to when I want unfussy, flavorful pasta without breaking the bank.
Top Pick:
The Penne Arrabbiata—spicy, garlicky, and soul-satisfying.
Address: Ibiyinka Olorunbe, Victoria Island
Budget: ₦17,000–₦35,000
Instagram: @cigusta_lagos
5. Praia Lagos—Pasta with Vibes and Views
Praia offers the perfect blend of upscale dining and weekend lounge vibes. Their pasta menu has evolved to include creative takes, and the ambiance is unmatched.
Must-Try Dish:
Their shrimp Alfredo pasta is served with basil oil drizzle—it’s creamy, tangy, and deeply flavorful.
Address: 20 Elsie Femi Pearse Street, Victoria Island
Budget: ₦25,000–₦35,000
Instagram: @praialagos
6. NOIR Lagos—Romantic Dining for True Food Lovers
NOIR is where I go when I want to wine and dine without compromise. It has the vibe of a Parisian lounge but with an Italian kitchen at its heart.
Signature Dish:
Their Black Truffle Tagliolini—dark, moody, and unforgettable.
Address: 4A Akin Olugbade Street, Victoria Island
Hours: Daily, 12 Noon–11 PM
Phone: 0908 066 6687
Instagram: @noirlagos
7. Mercury Lagos—Rooftop Pasta for Night Owls
Perched above the buzz of VI, Mercury delivers not just skyline views but solid Italian fare. I was skeptical at first, but their pasta lineup is as strong as their cocktail menu.
Recommended:
Lobster ravioli in saffron butter sauce—it’s indulgent and unforgettable.
Address: 99 Ajose Adeogun Street, Victoria Island
Hours: Tue–Sun, 7 PM – 3 AM
Phone: +234 901 1111 225
Instagram: @mercuryrooftop
Website: www.mercuryrooftop.com
8. Fiora Garden—Pasta Beneath the Stars in Ikeja
Fiora Garden is a romantic outdoor dining experience tucked away in GRA Ikeja. You’d never expect to find pasta this good in a garden lounge setting, but here we are.
Dish You Shouldn’t Miss:
Their creamy prawn penne with white wine sauce—it’s comforting and elegant.
Address: 9 Sasegbon Street, GRA, Ikeja
Budget: ₦19,000–₦25,000
Instagram: @fiora.garden
9. Lustro Lagos—Casual, Cozy, and Pasta-Focused
This is where I go for low-key meetups and consistent comfort food. Lustro doesn’t try too hard—and that’s what makes it work.
Editor’s Choice:
Their Beef Bolognese with a side of house bread—simple and nostalgic.
Address: 37a Ibukun Olu Street, Akoka, Lagos
Budget: ₦19,000–₦25,000
Instagram: @lustro_lagos
10. Circa Lagos—High-End Dining with Homey Flavors
Circa is stylish but not pretentious. The pasta is made fresh, the sauces are well-developed, and their plating is Pinterest-level perfect.
Standout Plate:
Spinach ricotta ravioli with sage butter—delicate, rich, and unforgettable.
Address: 12e Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1
Hours: Daily, 11 AM–2 AM
Phone: 0817 999 9960
Instagram: @circa.nonpareil
Website: www.circa.com.ng
11. Nostalgia Lagos—A Trip Down Flavor Lane
Nostalgia delivers on its name—it reminds me of those warm, hearty pasta meals from childhood but elevated for the Lagos foodie scene.
My Favorite:
Macaroni & cheese with grilled chicken and pepper glaze—a fusion I never knew I needed.
Address: 88 Hakeem Dickson Road, Lekki Phase 1
Hours:
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Tue – Sun: 12 Noon–3 AM
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Sunday Brunch: 12 Noon–4:30 PM
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Closed Mondays
Phone: 0911 311 9337
Instagram: @nostalgia.lagos
Final Thoughts: My Pasta Lover’s Promise to You
From intimate garden dinners in Ikeja to luxury lounges in Victoria Island, Lagos has proven itself as a thriving hub for pasta enthusiasts. I’ve personally dined, tasted, and reviewed every place on this list to ensure that your next Italian night out isn’t just good—it’s unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for indulgent truffle pastas or spicy arrabbiata that hits all the right notes, Lagos delivers.
FAQs
Where can I find the best Italian pasta in Lagos?
For upscale Italian dining, check out The Smiths, Farfallino, or Noir. Each offers a premium pasta experience with authentic flavor and great ambiance.
What’s the best budget-friendly pasta restaurant in Lagos?
Ci Gusta Lagos and Lustro Lagos offer excellent pasta at relatively affordable prices without compromising taste.
Which pasta spots in Lagos are good for date nights?
NOIR, Fiora Garden, and Praia offer romantic, ambient settings perfect for date nights.
Are there rooftop restaurants in Lagos that serve pasta?
Yes, Mercury Lagos offers a rooftop dining experience with an elegant pasta menu.
Disclaimer: WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
