If you're in Abuja this weekend and wondering where to grab an unforgettable meal, you're in for a treat. From laid-back spots perfect for lazy brunches to vibrant restaurants serving up bold flavors, the city is bursting with options. Whether you're looking to satisfy a craving, impress someone special, or simply unwind with great food, Abuja has something for everyone. Ready to discover your new favorite place? Here’s a curated list of the best restaurants to check out this weekend in the capital!

 

Choosing the Perfect Dining Experience in Abuja, Nigeria: A Comprehensive Guide

Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, is a melting pot of cultures and a haven for foodies. With a diverse range of dining options, choosing the perfect spot can be overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the city's culinary scene and provide tips on occasion-based dining, neighborhood guides, and more.

 

Cuisine Types

Abuja offers a diverse range of cuisine types. From the authentic Nigerian dishes at local eateries, to the spicy flavors of Indian cuisine and the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. If you crave traditional African cuisine, there are restaurants in Garki that are a great option, while some spots in Wuse serves up delicious street food. 

 

Price Range

Abuja's dining scene offers a range of prices to suit every budget. From budget-friendly options like local eateries and food stalls, to mid-range restaurants. Whether you're looking to spend ₦5,000 or ₦50,000, there's something for everyone.

 

Neighborhood Guide

Abuja's neighborhoods offer a unique dining experience. The Central Business District is home to upscale restaurants and bars, while Wuse is known for its local eateries and street food. Garki serves up traditional Nigerian cuisine.

12 Best Restaurants in Abuja, Nigeria

1. Nikko Abuja

Nikko Abuja is a new luxury restaurant and bar within the Reiz Continental Hotel Central Area, providing meals with a mild Italian flair. The restaurant's ambiance is a beautiful mix of elegance and comfort, making it ideal for both casual meals and special events. Customers frequently compliment its broad and excellent food, which features the best of both local and international cuisines. The skilled personnel at Nikko Abuja makes each guest feel welcome and catered to, which improves the overall dining experience. Also there is Happy Hours at Friday where you get to buy One Cocktail and Get one free from 6 PM Every Friday. 

What Customers are Saying

"This new restaurant Nikko Abuja has ticked the boxes for everything I look forward to when visiting a restaurant. The interior is remarkable The staff are professional and quite knowledgeable, most of the recommendations came from the waiter." - Abuja Food Plug

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 12pm-10pm
  • Address: Reiz Continental Hotel, 9 Wole Olanipekun St, Central Business District, Abuja 900001, Federal Capital Territory

2. Madagascar Restaurant & Grill

The greatest time to experience Madagascar Restaurant & Grill's wonderful atmosphere is at night. It's a well-liked destination in Abuja. The restaurant is well-known for its Thursday Karaoke evenings and Sunday Salsa dances, which ensure that its customers have a pleasant evening. From first-timers to regulars, the restaurant's warm and airy ambiance, free of cigarette smoke, has captured the hearts of many. It is reasonably priced and provides polite, fast service, making it an excellent hangout area for friends, family, and even those with whom you disagree.

What Customers are Saying

"Madagascar is one place I'd recommend for anyone who is looking to hang out with friends, family, and even enemies It's affordable, especially in this economy. The staff is friendly and efficient. The environment is cozy and airy (you wouldn't be choked with cigarette fumes). Oh, there's salsa every Sunday night." - Purple Pixie

Restaurant information

  • Cuisine: Nigerian
  • Opening Times: 11am-12am
  • Address: 103 Bachita Cl, Garki, Abuja 900103, Federal Capital Territory

3. The Pasha

The Pasha, located in the middle of the city, provides an ideal location for any occasion. The ambiance is welcoming and comfortable, with gentle music playing in the background, and the staff is extremely polite and attentive. The meal is just fantastic and consistently fresh. The portion sizes are generous, and the pricing are affordable. From classic drinks to signature creations, there's something for everyone. Pasha will make your evening special, whether you are celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply wanting to have a romantic supper.

What Customers are Saying

"A nice place for hangouts with friends and family, the place comes alive especially at night. The karaoke was good, awesome songs were sang & the people were invested in the songs, it's also a place to watch football matches with the guys." - Victor Ighalo

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Opening Times: 10am-11.30pm
  • Address: 11 Cassandra Crescent, off Usuma St, Abuja

4. Istanbul Restaurant Cafe NG

Located within the ShopRite Jabi Lake mall in Abuja, Istanbul Restaurant Cafe NG is a delightful Turkish restaurant that provides a distinctive eating experience. The breakfast menu is popular, especially the Turkish tea and bread, which come with a big serving of miniature jams. The restaurant's placement within a showroom offers a visual treat before you even arrive to your table, making it ideal for a romantic dinner or date night. For dessert, the muhallebi, a light and creamy milk pudding, is highly recommended. Overall, Istanbul Cafe & Restaurant NG promises an exceptional, authentic Turkish dining experience that will make customers want to return.

What Customers are Saying

"A wonderful serene experience. We had a beautiful time here and we appreciate their quickness to make the food. Taste is outstanding i implore you all to visit here for some beautiful dinner or date night. Kid-friendliness: My daughter was giving the baby seat even though she refuse to sit on it but it was a beautiful gesture that we appreciate."- Mahmud Isiaka

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Turkish
  • Opening Times: 9am-11pm
  • Address: Lake Mall, Jabi, Abuja 900108, Federal Capital Territory

5. Sugar Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

Sugar is a stunning restaurant and cocktail bar with a "pretty in pink" inside dining room and a verdant patio area. Their Unlimited Cocktail option is available every Monday through Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. There is also live music and exciting board games to keep guests amused. Sugar Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is the place to be whether you want to have a relaxing dining experience, take beautiful photos, or enjoy amazing food and drinks with friends.

What Customers are Saying

"They have a good customer service and their food is really nice, my girl and I took Tutti Fruity and Cloud 9 and it was really worth it, it's safe to say I had the best cocktail in sugar during my stay in Abuja. I really have to acknowledge their female bartender cause she's really good. I will surely visit there sometime again." -  Daniel Chigozie

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Opening Times: 12pm-11pm
  • Address: 10 Kolda Link St, Wuse, Abuja 900001, Federal Capital Territory

6. Ann’s Restaurant and Bar

Ann's Restaurant and Bar is an exceptional restaurant in Abuja that provides a one-of-a-kind and spectacular eating experience. The decor is trendy and stylish, and the atmosphere is peaceful and welcoming, ideal for conversation and laughter. Ann's Restaurant and Bar also has a unique cocktail tree with 6 to 12 different drinks or mocktails to pick from. The quantities are big, and the pricing are reasonable, making this restaurant an excellent choice for a memorable night out. They will also accommodate requests to tone down the music if there is an event going on, allowing the entire restaurant to enjoy a tranquil ambiance.

What Customers are Saying

"I loved this place! The food was great and service was swift. I didn't even wait long and my first course was ready. Before I could finish that, my second course was set! The staff here were really polite and the ambience and music were just perfect. Loved my mocktail too!" - Voke Ogedegbe

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian, French
  • Opening Times: 12pm-12am
  • Address: 36 Gana St, Maitama, Abuja 900001, Federal Capital Territory

7. MUSCADE CAFE

A hidden culinary gem in the center of Abuja is the Muscade Cafe. The cafe has a warm and friendly environment, which is enhanced by comfortable seats and gentle, pleasant lighting. The restaurant delivers delicious cuisine that consistently exceed diners' expectations, making it a favorite among foodies. The strategic, easy-to-find position just adds to the allure of this great eatery. Muscade Cafe is a wonderful place to make pleasant memories.

What Customers Are Saying

"It's as beautiful as it looks. Their service are good and very polite workers. Very affordable menu, very chilled ambience." - Amande Maduwabuchukwu

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: French, Italian
  • Opening Times: 7am-10pm (Monday - Friday), 9am-12am (Saturday-Sunday)
  • Address: 3CV7+2W6, 1st Avenue, Gwarinpa Estate, AMAC 900108, Federal Capital Territory

8. Spice Platter

Spice Platter is a restaurant with an extensive menu with numerous selections to pick from. Due to the fact that the food is prepared fresh, it is advisable to place an order in advance before visiting because of the 25 to 40 minute wait. Complimentary puff puff is served during this time. The restaurant has a nice setting, with a bar and an outdoor space where customers can sit. The restaurant also allows guests to make reservations for both individual and group bookings. Prices are reasonable, and they offer the option of delivering your order anywhere in Abuja. Overall, Spice Platter is an excellent choice for a lovely meal with friends and family.

What Customers Are Saying

"Nice place to tryout news dishes Tried this place menu when I was in town didn’t regret it. Everyone should try this place out you won’t be disappointed." - Danielle Lam

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: African, Mexican, Indian
  • Opening Times: 8am-10pm
  • Address: 18 Libreville Cres, Wuse, Abuja 904101, Federal Capital Territory

9. De Village Restaurant

De Village Restaurant in Abuja is the perfect spot to enjoy authentic local cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting. The beautifully decorated space creates a warm ambiance, making it ideal for a relaxed meal. The friendly and attentive staff ensure top-notch service, and the menu offers flexibility to customize dishes to your liking. Plus, a unique perk—you can purchase litres of their delicious soups, perfect for events or enjoying at home.

What Customers Are Saying

"I was craving starch and banga as per Warri tins and went on social media to get a good place to eat. I, after a long search, discovered this place. I placed an order and drove to the site using Google maps. The presentation of the food was fantastic! The taste of the food was superb. I would totally recommend the food. Also quite affordable." - Olusola Adeoye

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Nigerian
  • Opening Times: 8am-8pm
  • Address: SOHO 24 Sports Park, Ahmadu Bello Wy, Kado, Ndawuse 900108, Federal Capital Territory

10. TreeHouse Grill

Treehouse Grill, located in the heart of Wuse 2, is a charming oasis offering a variety of affordable dishes—rice, pasta, sandwiches, grills, and drinks—all under ₦10,000. This outdoor gem features cozy "treehouses" for small groups and a larger one for bigger gatherings, all set amidst lush plants, tall trees, and even a wishing well. Perfect for casual dates or intimate group meals, it’s a delightful spot that’s both budget-friendly and brimming with natural beauty. Note that parking is limited.

What Customers Are Saying

"Great food. Great ambience. I particularly enjoyed sitting in the gazebo surrounded by trees and listening to the birds with the fresh breeze descending upon me. I had a plate of pasta. Quite a shame that I didn’t take a picture of the meal." - Omotola Lilian

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Nigerian
  • Opening Times: 11am-12am
  • Address: 66 Adetokunbo Ademola Cres, Wuse, Abuja 904101, Federal Capital Territory

11. Zuma Grill Restaurant

Zuma Grill, Abuja’s premier fine dining destination located at Hilton Abuja, offers a culinary experience like no other. Begin your meal with a delectable French Onion Soup, bursting with rich, savory flavors, or indulge in the Escargot, crafted with a unique in-house recipe that promises to delight. While the prices are on the higher side, the exceptional quality of the food and top-notch service make it well worth the splurge. For a truly memorable fine dining experience in Abuja, Zuma Grill is the ultimate choice.

What Customers Are Saying

"I had a great experience in this restaurant The service is amazing Very good quality of food They impose some dress code rules !!" - Mohammed Anouar

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: French
  • Opening Times: 9am-10.30pm
  • Address: Floor, 01, Transcorp Hilton Hotel, No.1, Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, FCT

12. Casa Mexicana The Restaurant

Casa Mexicana, nestled in Ceddi Plaza in Abuja's Central Area, is a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture and cuisine. As soon as you walk in, you'll be struck by the restaurant’s lively and colorful décor, which immerses you in a vivid Mexican atmosphere. The space is adorned with bright hues and cultural accents that capture the essence of Mexico. Unlike many other dining spots in Abuja, Casa Mexicana is dedicated to authentic Mexican fare, ensuring every dish stays true to its roots. While the menu features a range of prices, with some dishes being more affordable than others, the overall experience is well worth it. Casa Mexicana is committed to delivering a memorable dining experience, rich with the flavors, culture, and traditions of Mexico.

What Customers Are Saying

"Had a lovely outing with my family. Felt so grateful learning another culture. The staff are so cheerful. It was a fun filled day. We were invited there actually for a birthday celebration, so you can decide to have your birthdays or other events there." - Abuakolam Sandra

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Opening Times: 10am-10.30pm
  • Address: 264 Tafawa Balewa Rd, Central Business District, Abuja 901002, Federal Capital Territory

Conclusion

As the weekend comes to a close, remember that the flavors and memories of Abuja's best restaurants will stay with you long after the meal is over. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the city's vibrant culinary scene is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and already planning your next dining adventure. So go ahead, savor the taste of Abuja, and make every weekend a culinary escape to look forward to!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I find restaurants in Abuja with a romantic atmosphere?
A: Yes, some restaurants have a cozy ambiance perfect for date nights.

Q: Can I find restaurants in Abuja that offer gluten-free options?
A: Yes, some restaurants cater to gluten-free dietary needs.

Q: Are there any restaurants in Abuja that offer cooking classes?
A: Yes, some restaurants offer cooking classes or workshops.

Q: Are there any restaurants in Abuja that offer private dining rooms?
A: Yes, some restaurants have private rooms for special occasions.

Q: Can I find restaurants in Abuja that serve alcohol?
A: Yes, some restaurants have a bar or serve alcohol with meals.

Q: Are there any restaurants in Abuja that have a kids’ play area?
A: Yes, some restaurants have a play area to keep kids entertained.

Q: Can I find restaurants in Abuja that offer catering services?
A: Yes, some restaurants offer catering for events or parties.

About Dinesurf

Dinesurf is your trusted companion for discovering the best dining experiences across Africa. Our team is dedicated to analyzing thousands of online reviews and ratings from diners to curate the most comprehensive and reliable restaurant guides.

But our work doesn’t stop there. Dinesurf’s platform extends beyond Nigeria and covers cities and suburbs across the entire African continent. We strive to help food enthusiasts discover hidden gems, popular eateries, and new culinary adventures, no matter where they are. With Dinesurf, you can explore a wide array of restaurants that cater to all kinds of tastes, preferences, and budgets.

Our mission is to transform your dining experience by providing the insights you need to make informed decisions about where to eat. Whether you’re planning a dinner date, a family outing, or a solo gastronomical journey, Dinesurf is here to guide you every step of the way. We invite you to join us on this exciting culinary exploration and discover the diverse flavors of Africa with Dinesurf.