Being a Proper Foodie in Lagos

As a true Lagos foodie, you don’t just eat food; you experience it! It’s not just about the nice food and the good ambiance –it’s about the stories behind it. The waiters’ story, the chef’s story, and your story. 

But being a certified foodie comes with responsibilities –it’s an honorable calling. So, let’s dive into the unspoken rules of the Lagos foodie culture—because na enjoyment we dey, but with finesse.

Don’t Kill the Vibes with Bad Food Photos

Yes, we all want that Instagram-worthy shot, but there’s a fine line between capturing the moment and making your friends wait while their soup gets cold.

Master the quick snap. Better still, take photos during your second visit when you’re not starving or keeping others hostage. (I’ll share my personal stories about this on my Instagram one day)

Explore, Don’t Just Follow Trends

Yes, we’ll always keep you updated on the best places to eat, but while it’s cool to be at the latest spots, the real joy of being a foodie in Lagos is discovering hidden gems. 

So that Buka in Yaba might just outshine any “luxury” restaurant’s version of a proper amala. Sure, there might even be a power outage, but if you’re serious, that won’t stop you. (Like it didn’t stop me at Ajoke Alamala).

Food adventures should include both the boujee and the underrated. Balance is key.

Support Local Flavors

With the rise of fusion cuisines (hello, Naija-Mex tacos), it’s easy to overlook the classics. But trust me, there’s no shame in ordering a plate of Jollof at a restaurant instead of opting for a fancy quinoa salad. Foodie culture thrives on preserving and celebrating our roots. Let’s be serious, Jollof and Pepsi slaps. 

Share, Don’t Gatekeep

Found the perfect pounded yam spot or a bakery with bread that melts in your mouth?  Share it! Foodie culture is built on community. When you gatekeep, you deny others the joy of discovering what makes the food scene so special.

But there’s nothing wrong in waiting till you’ve gone on one (or more) romantic dates there before spreading the news —because we deserve to enjoy our find a little before it becomes crowded right?

Be Kind to Servers

Home training should follow you to the restaurants. No matter how much the lights and the ambiance make you feel like royalty with butlers and maids serving you, remember that you’re just at a restaurant. The servers aren’t your slaves. 

A simple “thank you” to the staff goes a long way—and who knows? You might just get an extra serving of pepper sauce on the house.

Pace Yourself

The food FOMO in Lagos is real, but not every event or food pop-up needs to be attended. Burnout is real—even from enjoyment. So, take it easy, drink water (or zobo), and plan your foodie adventures wisely. (We’ll let you know places that are worth visiting, so chill!)

Being a Lagos foodie isn’t just about eating—it’s about embracing the culture, the people, and the endless variety of flavors. So, go forth and eat like a true Lagosian—boldly, joyfully, and with plenty of pepper on the side.

How are you embracing foodie culture in Lagos? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your foodie adventures!

Remember to subscribe to our newsletter here and subscribe to the YouTube channel and banter with me on Twitter and TikTok, Threads, and Instagram