New Lagos Island Restaurant

Traditionally Authentic Nigerian Flavors Shine Bright

Nestled in the embrace of urban London, my recent foray into Lagos Island was a curious mélange of vibrant authenticity and mild chaos—like being wrapped in an aromatic Nigerian hug, delivered with a slightly disheveled smile. Let it be said that the culinary offerings here have a flair for the distinguished, especially the pounded yam with efo—a robustly spiced dish that one memoir-toting companion swore reminded them of their grandmother’s kitchen, albeit without the familial squabbles. The puff-puff and plantain patrol deserve medals of valor; unsung heroes in a business where deep-fried excellence is harder to come by than a polite cabbie during rush hour.

That being said, dining here does require patience—a quality best sobered with a cocktail from the expensive list, tightly cheeked nonetheless. The service was bustling between acts of efficiency, outstanding yet not quite enough to rescue our Christmas debacle, where triple booking achieved the rare feat of an intimate sardine illusion—a circus trick, only less fun and all the more awkward with chairs stacked like a Jenga game poised for collapse. Despite this, the ambiance served heritage on a meticulously crafted platter—traditionally grounded while punctuated with wafts of hospitality in flux. Ultimately, Lagos Island may grace the hidden gem list: worth the pilgrimage for culinary enthusiasts armed with flexible agendas and perhaps a slice of ironic optimism—it's clear, though, that a second course or third visit is where the tale truly unfolds. — Penelope Savory