The season of “I Just Got Back” (IJGB) always crawls in towards the last quarter of every year, and by December, Lagos is in full returnee mode. The accents will start to switch, the group chats will get busier, and suddenly everyone is outside every night.
And if you’re one of the many Lagosians expecting friends, cousins, or a partner coming into the city around these periods. Then, of course, you want to make sure that their visit is fun and filled with amazing memories of Lagos dining and food. From OG spots to new sensations, these are the spots in Lagos that are sure to leave a lasting impression on your IJGB friends. Whether they want soft brunch, casual drinks, or a taste of Lagos with a twist, you’ll find something here that delivers.
I’ll advise you to save this list. You’ll need it.
RSVP Lagos
If your IJGBs spent the last six months in Brooklyn or Shoreditch, RSVP is your safest bet. The menu is international without trying too hard, the outdoor poolside area is a Lagos classic, the playlist always slaps, and the vibe is perfect for pre-drinks, especially on weekends. Plus, there’s the chance you’ll run into other tourists, detty December visitors, and Lagos’ high class.
Location: 9 Eletu Ogabi Street, Victoria Island.
Vibe: Stylish, global, effortlessly cool
Cactus
Cactus is old-school Lagos, no need for a soft sell. Whether your friend grew up on Victoria Island or just spent their holidays here as a kid, Cactus gives that “coming back home” comfort. From pastries and pizza to classic grilled mains, it’s spacious, consistent, and forever relevant.
Location: 20/24 Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Victoria Island.
Vibe: Family-friendly, nostalgic, water-view chill
Kapadoccia Lagos
You know they went to Kappadocia in 2022, right? So now, take them to Kapadoccia Lagos, give them a little “wow” moment. This place is super immersive, the walls look like a Turkish cave, and the meals are equally dramatic. You can order the flaming drink that everyone wants to post on their TikTok. The overall vibe is very cozy and indulgent.
Location: 22 Idowu Taylor Street, Victoria Island.
Vibe: Theme restaurant, hidden gem, luxury Turkish delight
Hard Rock Cafe Lagos
Everyone has probably heard of Hard Rock Cafe, a global brand with locations in major cities and exotic locations around the world. It’s easily a no-brainer, American-style cuisine, they’re used to, with industrial‑chic metal structures, dramatic lighting, and rock‑and‑roll memorabilia. We’re talking signed guitars, stage costumes, vintage posters, it’s a global music museum that carries alot of Lagos history and culture. Hard Rock is a staple location for Lagos events, making it a perfect addition to your detty December list.
Location: Landmark Village, Water Corporation Road, Oniru Estate, Victoria Island.
Vibe: Classic American Menu, ocean view, visually stimulating decor.
Forno
Looking for something casual, and still give fine dining aesthetics? Forno is where to take them to. The open plan kitchen design combines the kitchen and dining areas into one space to create a sense of spaciousness and connection. The Smith Sisters are one of the best in the hospitality industry in Lagos, and Forno has been carefully put together to create an unforgettable experience. Trust to surprise your tourist friends with a taste of Italy in Lagos.
Location: 7 Musa Yar’Adua Street, Victoria Island.
Vibe: Italian, open kitchen layout, effortlessly cool.
The Afrobeat Lagos
You’ve got an adventurous tourist friend? The Afrobeat Space is where you’ll experience exquisite culinary cooking and presentation of staple Nigerian and Lagos dishes, all locally sourced. It’s a bold homage to our culture through modern African cuisine. The ambience is a combination of cozy, luxury, and afrofuturism. It’s a well-meaning experience for those seeking to find new ways to connect to the culture.
Location: Ebony Life Place, 1637, Eti-Osa.
Vibe: Afrofuturism, global, cozy.
