Top 10 Most Pocket Friendly Restaurants On the Island for Your Next Big Girls Night  – Smart Money Africa

Finding the perfect Girls’ Night spot is a delicate dance. Firstly, whatever you choose has to look good in all the inevitable Instagram photos. It also has to have enough room to fit the whole crew and, most importantly, chic enough that you can serve some looks. Don’t forget the amazing food and yummy (*cough* strong) cocktails. and most importantly,  relatively cheap and cheerful (it’s the Island after all). Not to worry, we have done the work for you. 

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, a job promotion, or just having a catch-up sesh, we present our pick of the best restaurants in Lagos that’ll give you all the vibes you need without breaking the bank for you and your girls.

Cactus 

When we say it’s an oldie but a goodie, we’re talking about Cactus. More of a Lagos institution rather than just a restaurant, Cactus is the go-to for a decent, affordable meal. Post glow-up, Cactus is  now one of the most aesthetically appealing spots, I mean, have you seen their patio area all lit up at night? With a wide selection of dishes and their own gelato and patisserie areas, Cactus is sweet, savory and everything in between. Definitely an all-rounder! 

Brass and Copper 

If you want to see, be seen and enjoy delicious food and drinks at the same time, Brass and Copper is that girl. Run by the stylish duo Kika and Chioma of Good Hair fame, you already know Brass and Copper is going to be super Instagrammable. Best known for their Ampiano nights, you and the girls can cross over from the restaurant to the bar for a seamless dinner to dance segue. What’s better than dancing the night away after a fantastic meal?! We’ll wait…

Cilantro 

A relative newcomer to the Lagos restaurant scene, Cilantro serves fragrant, delicious Indian and Chinese food. Having already made their name in Abuja, it’s Lagos’ turn to join in the enjoyment. For the standard of food, the prices are amazing and if there’s one thing Cilantro can do, it’s ambience. Catch up with your girls under the twinkling lights as the water fountain soothes the worries of the week away. 

China Wok 

What China Wok lacks in ambience and pizzazz, it certainly makes up for in food. Quietly, ensconced on the road leading to the luxurious Banana Island, China Wok is a hidden gem in the heart of affluent Ikoyi. But don’t let that put you off because their prices are pretty affordable. In the battle of Asian Fusion restaurants across Lagos, there are many contenders but dare I say we may have a winner. With a menu that ranges from Chinese to Thai, China Wok have mastered Asian cuisine. If you want a quiet spot to really catch up with the Girls, China Wok is the one. 

Radish 

On the grounds of the Maple Hotel in Lekki Phase 1 lies Radish, a minimalist restaurant that gives us fine-dining for a fraction of the price. It’s menu is short, sweet and cooked to perfection. If you want to huddle over a good meal, drink good quality wine, have a deep and meaningful conversation with the girls, Radish is the one.

RSVP

An OG in the restaurant game, RSVP never, ever disappoints. Between the immaculately decor in the main restaurant to their cool pool area it is THE place to be on a Friday night, if there’s one thing RSVP has over most restaurants in Lagos, it’s consistency. For years, RSVP has provided top notch food and vibes and shows no signs of slowing down. Also, rumour has it that they have the best cocktails in Lagos and what else does a Girls Night Out need?

Danfo Bistro

Danfo burst onto the scene after going viral for gentrifying bread and beans but when that blew over, it revealed a carefully crafted and well-executed concept. Danfo takes quintessential Nigerian comfort food and gives them a remix for an elevated and super-fun dining experience. After enjoying the food, you and the girls have to head upstairs to soak in the vibes on their rooftop bar with drinks being served out of a…you guessed it, danfo bus.

Circa Lagos

I’m sure you have heard tales of the infamous Okoloko, a cocktail more potent than the Lagos Long Island. It has to be tasted to be believed. Apart from insane cocktails, Circa is one of the best restaurants in Lekki Phase 1. The owner is really involved and coming to Circa feels like the warmest welcome. Finish that off with a beautiful menu and we have a winner. If you haven’t spent Girl’s Night at Circa, did you really have Girls Night?

Nok by Alara

Nights at Nok Garden are the stuff legends are made of so we would be doing you a disservice if we didn’t add it to the list. Specialising in African-fusion cuisine, Nok is one of the most unique restaurants in Lagos. If you’re looking for a taste experience, unlike any other, Nok is your girl. Couple that with delicious cocktails inspired by African flavours and the colourful Nok garden, your Girls Night is bound to pop. It’s a little pricier than some of the options on this list, but we think it is a necessary addition to your list!

HSE Gourmet

We’ve got 3 words for you. Mac and Cheese. That’s right, HSE Gourmet’s signature dish is bound to get your taste buds going. Their creamy, sinful Mac and Cheese is EVERYTHING. Do you need another reason to host your girls night there? In case you did, the rest of HSE’s menu is fantastic and will take you all around the world in one evening. Make sure you get the benches upstairs near the windows so you and your girls can get as loud as you want in peace.