Lagos might be best known for its pepper soup, amala joints and suya stalls but if you know where to look, the city is also hiding a flavourful Asian foods variety that are quietly stealing hearts and stomachs. Whether you’re a sushi devotee, a Korean BBQ convert, or you just want something that is not jollof for the third time this week, here is where to find the best of Asian foods in Lagos.

Shiro – Victoria Island

Think date night with the view! Located inside Landmark centre, Block XVI 3 & 4, Oniru Estate, Victoria Island, Lagos 101241, Lagos, Shiro is easily one of Lagos most upscale Pan-Asian restaurants. The menu ranges from Japanese sushi platters to Fiery Grilled Salmon to Thai stir-fries and Korean BBQs. The ambience is mood setting and is definitely an experience.

Ki Bar & Kitchen – Victoria Island

Just around the corner on 31a Oju Olobun Cl, Victoria Island, Lagos, Victoria Island is a trendy, vibey, and fusion-heavy Asian restaurant.  Ki mixes Thai, Chinese, and Japanese flavours into fun, crowd pleasing dishes. Their sushi and Japanese curry katsu are guest favourite, and the cocktails are as good as the food.  A solid pick up to meet friends hangouts or a soft Friday night vibes.

Wakame- Ikeja

You did not think we were going to leave the Mainland out, did you? Wakame is tucked away in 122 Joel Ogunnaike Street, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, GRA which brings sophisticated Pan-Asian dining to Ikeja, and the locals love it here. From Korean wings to Thai noodles, the portions are quite generous and the service is pristine. If you have been avoiding Ikeja restaurants, this one might give you a change of mind.

Hua Han – Ikeja

Located at 45c Sobo Arobiodu St, Ikeja GRA, Hua Han is not about flashy interiors or curated Instagram pictures. It is about flavor. This low-key Chinese-Korean spots is where foodies go for hot, Bulgogi, and bibimhap that taste like it came directly from Seoul. If you are looking for real and unfiltered Asian /food experience? Here you have it.

Pearl Garden – Victoria Island

137 Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, Pearl Garden feels like that reliable aunty who never disappoints. It is been around for years and it continues to serve as one of the best Chinese classics, from sweet and sour chicken to sizzling beef bean sauce. If you are with family or just craving comfort food with chopsticks, it is your go to.

Final Bite

Due to several ongoing road constructions in and around Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and parts of the Mainland, traffic has become increasing unpredictable. If you are dining out, plan ahead, leave early, and check your route to avoid unnecessary delays. Also, be on the lookout for announcements of VVIPs visit to the megacity; they normally lead to huge traffic congestions.

But once you make it through the gridlock, you will find it is well worth the journey. Lagos may run a lot on our local food but its Asian scene is quietly leveling up. Whether you are after Michelin-worthy date night or a quick ramen fix, there is always something for every palate and pocket. So, maybe next time your taste buds ever gets bored, skip rice and stew and say hello to ni hao or annyeong instead.

Meiza Nigeria