In Nigeria, especially in the Southwest states, there’s a common belief that the taste of a plate of amala and obe can be predicted by the attitude of the cook or the seller. A rude seller equals a flavorful, spicy amala, while a meek and humble seller often results in a more mediocre dish. Some even argue that the shabbier the restaurant, the better the amala.
These meals are often sold in bukka restaurants, street food spots that serve home-cooked Nigerian meals, ranging from rice dishes to swallows like amala.
Abula Tawa, however, prides itself as a posh bukka. We decided to visit and find out if a posh bukka with excellent service could still serve up the same tasty, rich meals that are expected from traditional street food spots
- Menu variety – 8/10
- Food Quality – 9/10
- Service – 9/10
- Ambience – 9/10
- Value for money – 8/10
- Hygiene standards – 8/10
- Location – 9/10
- Consistency – 8/10
- Innovation – 8/10
- Sustainability – 6/10
- Waiting time – 8/10
- Online presence – 9/10
- Special features – 7/10
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Menu Variety
Abula Tawa offers an impressive variety of Nigerian dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences. While the restaurant is named after a mixture of gbegiri, ewedu, and obe ata soup, their menu extends far beyond that signature dish. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of Nigerian staples such as jollof rice, fried rice, white rice, and a variety of traditional soups like white okro, efo-riro, and egusi-elefo.
For those who enjoy swallows, Abula Tawa offers a range of options, including amala, lafun, eba, semo, oat, wheat, and pounded yam. Seafood lovers will also be pleased with their selection of fresh fish dishes, ranging from obokun to white snapper fish, which can be made into flavorful peppersoup and paired with white rice or yam.
To complement the hearty meals, the restaurant offers a diverse drinks menu, including palm wine, soft drinks, beer, fruit juices, and wine, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The variety and quality of dishes on the menu make Abula Tawa a versatile and satisfying choice for anyone craving authentic Nigerian cuisine.
Food Quality
We ordered the amala with obe ata and ewedu soup with goat meat, and the meal did not disappoint. The soup was generously portioned, rich in flavor, and packed with the right amount of spice. The amala had the perfect fluffy texture, complementing the savory ewedu soup. The goat meat was tender and cooked to perfection, firm enough to enjoy without being tough, yet tender enough to melt in your mouth. Overall, the meal was delicious, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to providing high-quality, flavorful dishes that deliver on taste and satisfaction.
Service
The service at Abula Tawa is warm and welcoming. The staff were friendly and helpful, ready to assist with meal choices and recommendations, especially for first-time visitors unfamiliar with the menu. The professionalism of the staff shines through in their attentiveness and willingness to accommodate special requests. For example, I love the ratio of my obe ata to be more than the ratio of the ewedu. I expressed this to the staff, and it was well executed. Whether you’re dining in or ordering for takeaway, you can expect a pleasant and hassle-free experience.
Ambience
The interior design at Abula Tawa is an African rustic style, featuring woven basket lights hanging from the ceiling, wooden tables and chairs, and lush green plants placed behind them. A standout element is the massive canoe-shaped seating arrangement, designed for an intimate communal dining experience. True to their words, the fancy atmosphere lives up to its reputation as a posh bukka, a rarity among traditional bukka restaurants that often overlook aesthetics.
Abula Tawa also had a dedicated photo spot for visitors—a wooden backdrop with “Abula Tawa” written boldly on it, accompanied by a carved wooden seat. Televisions are propped in certain areas, providing entertainment for guests as they eat. The restaurant is also cool and refreshing, thanks to its efficient air conditioning system.
Value for Money
Abula Tawa strikes a fine balance between quality and affordability, making it a great spot for those who want a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. A scoop of amala costs N500, a portion of rice N800, and soups range from as low as N300 to N1000.
The portion sizes are not overly generous, but they are not too small either—just enough to be filling and manageable. Whether you’re ordering a plate of amala with assorted meats or a full spread of traditional soups, the quality of ingredients stands out in the freshness of the meals, and the rich flavors justify the prices charged.
Beyond the food, the overall experience—friendly service, a well-maintained space, and a thoughtfully designed ambience, adds to the value. Compared to regular bukka spots, Abula Tawa offers a more elevated dining atmosphere while still maintaining reasonable pricing. It’s a place where you enjoy both taste and comfort, making every naira spent feel worthwhile.
Hygiene Standard
Cleanliness is an important factor in any dining experience, and Abula Tawa does a commendable job in maintaining a tidy environment. While we were unable to see the kitchen and cannot say for sure how clean it is, the dining and serving areas were well-kept. The tables and chairs were neatly arranged, with no visible spills or clutter, and the serving area was organized, ensuring a hygienic presentation of food. The servers were also prompt in clearing tables immediately after visitors finished their meals, keeping the space clean and ready for the next guests.
However, during our visit, the restroom was closed for maintenance, so we could not assess its condition. It’s reassuring to know that the management takes upkeep seriously, but it would have been helpful to have access to the facilities at the time.
Location
Abula Tawa is conveniently located on 21 Opebi Road, Ikeja, Lagos, placing it in a bustling area that’s easy to find. However, parking availability is quite limited, with only a small space in front of the restaurant, which can make it challenging during peak hours. Accessibility for people with mobility issues might also be a concern, as there is no wheelchair ramp, and the entrance involves a few steps. While the location is central and offers easy access to the surrounding area, the lack of ample parking and accommodations for those with mobility challenges might be something to consider when planning a visit.
Consistency
Abula Tawa, formerly known as Belleful Variety, has been a staple in the Lagos food scene for over seven years. Known for its vibrant take on traditional Nigerian street food, the restaurant has built a loyal following with its flavorful dishes, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere. This reliability is key to building trust with customers, as it’s evident that Abula Tawa has made an effort to maintain both food quality and service standards, ensuring a dependable experience every time.
Innovation
While Abula Tawa’s menu offerings include familiar Nigerian comfort foods, they stand out by adding a creative touch to the overall dining experience. One of the most distinctive elements is the presentation of meals in wooden bowls, which adds an earthy and rustic charm that elevates the dining experience. The staff and servers further enhance this unique touch with their stylish Adire buba and iro, blending traditional Nigerian culture with a modern dining environment.
Sustainability
While the specific practices of Abula Tawa related to sourcing ingredients, waste management, and environmental impact are not clear, the restaurant does demonstrate a commitment to sustainability in certain areas. For takeaway orders, they make use of reusable plastics and opt for paper bags for packaging, minimizing their use of single-use plastics. Additionally, Abula Tawa encourages customers to bring their own containers for takeout, promoting a more eco-friendly approach to packaging.
Waiting Time
One of the standout features of Abula Tawa is the quick service. There is virtually no waiting time, as customers can choose a seat of their choice upon arrival and simply walk up to the serving counter to place their order. Once the order is placed, meals are promptly brought to the table, ensuring a swift and efficient dining experience. This streamlined process allows guests to enjoy their food without unnecessary delays, making it an ideal spot for both quick bites and relaxed meals.
Online Presence and Ease of Reservations
Abula Tawa has a strong online presence, making it easy for customers to engage with them and place orders. While they don’t have a dedicated online reservation system, meals can be conveniently ordered through their WhatsApp number or via Jumia, allowing customers to enjoy their food at home or office without hassle.
The restaurant is also active on social media, with both Instagram and TikTok pages regularly updated with engaging content. This allows customers to stay informed about new menu items, special events, and promotions.
Special Features
Abula Tawa stands out not only for its delicious meals but also for its unique dining experiences. One of the restaurant’s special features is its Faaji Weekend, where diners can enjoy live music from a band, adding a vibrant and lively atmosphere to the meal. This themed weekend experience, complete with complimentary bites and palm wine, offers a communal and celebratory environment that enhances the dining experience.
For special holidays, Abula Tawa rolls out exclusive menus, such as their three-course meal for Valentine’s Day, offering a creative twist on traditional dining and making each visit feel like a special occasion. These innovative touches ensure that dining at Abula Tawa isn’t just about the food, but about a memorable experience.
@ikejarecord Amala spot on the mainland- Abula Tawa 📍: 21 Opebi road, Ikeja. Open Monday – Friday | 8am – 8pm, Saturday – Sunday | 9am – 8pm. #amalaspotinlagos #amalaspotinikeja #abulatawa #bukkainlagos #foodtiktok #naijafoodie ♬ Simple notification sound _02 – MATSU
