There is more to Abuja than politics, government offices, and traffic on Ahmadu Bello Way. The restaurants here? Scorching hot! So hot that a 2024 lifestyle survey found well over 70% of Abuja’s residents eat out at least once a week, not just out of convenience but because the city is brimming with restaurants to match every palate, temperament, and budget.
No matter whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, classic Nigerian comfort food, or just a relaxed spot to meet up with friends, the capital has it all. So if you’ve ever asked, “Where do I eat in Abuja?” here are 10 restaurants in Abuja that you can rely on for good food and vibes.
1. Nkoyo – Classic, Chill, Consistently Good
Nkoyo is one of those restaurants you can recommend blindfolded. It’s high-end without ever being pretentious. The ambiance is cosy and green, with wooden tables and potted plants that make you feel like you’re dining in a garden-style bistro.
Why go: It’s perfect for dates, family dining, or a night out by yourself if you’re in the mood to splurge. They offer both Nigerian and continental food, so everyone is covered.
What to eat: Their grilled fish is a favourite among city dwellers, and the beef short ribs literally melt in your mouth. Don’t miss ordering it with fresh juice or wine.
Where: Ceddi Plaza, Central Business District, AMAC, FCT.
Pro tip: Go on weekday evenings if you like it less busy.
2. Jevinik – Home Food Served Large
Ask a local Abuja citizen where to get Nigerian food that actually tastes like home, and Jevinik will be named. Portions of food are enormous (literally, you may have takeaway packs leftover), and costs are amazingly low for the quantity received.
Why go: This is your go-to when you’re craving egusi, oha soup, or a pepper soup that clears your sinuses in the best way.
What to order: Goat meat pepper soup, ofe owerri, or banga soup with starch.
Where: Wuse II
Pro tip: Come hungry. One plate can comfortably feed two light eaters.
3. BluCabana – Poolside Brunch & Chill
BluCabana is more than just a restaurant; it’s a lifestyle spot. Think poolside seating, playground for kids, and a menu that ranges from light snacks to full meals. It’s family-friendly but also perfect for a laid-back brunch with friends.
Why go: You’ll feel like you’re on a mini holiday without leaving Abuja.
What to order: Their burgers are popular, but I recommend trying their salads and cocktails of the Mediterranean kind for a healthy blend.
Where: Mabushi.
Pro tip: Best enjoyed during the late afternoon for that golden-hour sunlight by the pool.
4. Wakkis – Indian Flavours with Fire
Wakkis is old and still one of Abuja’s best Indian restaurants. The atmosphere is rustic, which makes it a lively, theatre-like environment.
Why go: When you crave Indian spices and lots of grub.
What to order: Chicken biryani, butter chicken, and garlic naan. If you can handle it, order their spicy lamb curry.
Where: Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II, AMAC, FCT.
Pro tip: Great for group dining. Share different curries and naan so everyone gets a taste.
5. The Charcoal Grill – Smoke, Meat & Friends
If your heart beats faster at the thought of sizzling steak, The Charcoal Grill will not disappoint. It’s Abuja’s answer to proper grill culture.
Why go: The smoky aroma alone is worth the trip. It’s best with friends so you can get different cuts and share.
What to order: Steak, mixed grill platter, and their suya-spiced sides.
Where: Wuse II, AMAC, FCT.
Pro tip: Go with an empty stomach. And maybe stretchy clothes.
6. 4GUYS – Sushi Meets Pasta
Abuja is waking up to foreign food slowly, and 4GUYS is leading the way. The menu is Japanese-Italian fusion, which sounds odd until you taste it.
Why go: It’s cool, presentation is trendy, and the food is a surprise.
What to order: The sushi platters. They have a good dessert menu as well.
Where: Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse II, FCT.
Pro tip: Perfect for small celebrations or a unique date night.
7. Kapadoccia – The “Cave” Restaurant
Kapadoccia is one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Abuja. Designed like a cave, it feels like you’ve stepped into another world.
Why go: Beyond the décor, it’s a cool spot for cocktails, group hangouts, or just to impress someone.
What to order: Their cocktails and sharing platters are a hit.
Where: Kinda Street, Wuse II, FCT.
Tip: Reserve ahead. It’s one of Abuja’s most popular restaurants, so Saturday and Sunday evenings book up quickly.
8. The Pasha – Mediterranean Nights
Mediterranean food enthusiasts, this is for you. The Pasha blends barbecued meats, mezze plates, and garden ambience. It’s refined but not formal.
Why go: For a leisurely, extended dinner that’s like a mini vacation to Greece or Turkey.
What to order: Starter plates, lamb that has been grilled, and finish with a bottle of wine.
Where: Maitama, FCT.
Pro tip: Take it with a group and get a selection of small plates to share.
9. Shogan – Asian Comforts in Maitama
A cosy and warm Asian restaurant tucked away in Maitama, Shogan serves anything from sushi to stir-fry noodles.
Why go: It is cosy, less crowded, and a good option for convenient dinners.
What to get: Sushi rolls, spicy noodles, and their Asian soups.
Where: Lake Chad Crescent, Maitama, FCT.
Pro tip: Great for weeknight meals when you don’t feel like battling crowds.
10. Carneval – Brazilian Churrasco Vibes
Carneval is loud, vibrant, and unapologetically meat-centric. Their churrasco strategy translates to round after round of grilled meat until you turn the red side of the card.
Why go: It’s fun, over-the-top, and best experienced with friends.
What to get: Get their churrasco menu in entirety. Skip the sides; the meat will just keep coming.
Where: 55 Kumasi Crescent, Wuse II, FCT.
Pro tip: Reserve for weekends. It’s not a meal; it’s an experience.
Abuja’s restaurant scene has grown so wide that it’s overwhelming to decide where to eat. The good news? If you’re craving pepper soup that feels like a big hug or sushi that makes you forget that you are in Nigeria, there’s something on this list for you.
The next time hunger bites you, try one of these and thank us later.
FAQs
Q: Which Abuja restaurant is best for a night out on the town?
A: Nkoyo and Kapadoccia are our go-tos. Nkoyo for sophisticated calm, Kapadoccia for the experience of being constructed into a cave.
Q: Where in Abuja can I go for real Nigerian food?
A: Soups and stews should be done with Jevinik. There are also bukka places where you can have real meals if you don’t want to go for a very formal occasion.
Q: Is eating in Abuja restaurants costly?
A: It varies. Nkoyo, Pasha, and Carneval are mid-to-high end and more expensive, while Jevinik is less expensive. Most of the restaurants accept deliveries now.
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