Top 10 Amala Joints in Lagos: Savoring Nigeria’s Beloved Delicacy

Amala, a cherished Yoruba delicacy made from yam flour (elubo) or cassava (lafun), is a cultural staple in Lagos, Nigeria, often served hot with velvety ewedu (jute leaf soup), rich gbegiri (bean soup), or spicy stew, accompanied by assorted meats like goat meat (ogufe) or cow tripe (shaki). Its soft, smooth texture and soul-warming flavors make it a favorite among Lagosians, from students to CEOs. Lagos, a bustling culinary hub, is home to countless “buka” eateries and modern restaurants serving this iconic dish. Below is a curated list of ten top amala joints in Lagos, detailing their ambiance, services, price ranges, social media presence, and ownership where available. Due to limited public data, some details like founders or official websites may be unavailable, but this selection highlights the best spots based on recent sources and local popularity, offering authentic amala experiences across Lagos Mainland and Island.

1. Olaiya Foods

Description: Olaiya Foods is a legendary chain of buka-style restaurants, renowned for its smoky, lump-free amala and flavorful ewedu-gbegiri combo. With a history dating back decades, its Surulere branch offers a modern interior with air conditioning, setting it apart from traditional bukas, while maintaining authentic Yoruba flavors.
Address: 8 Shitta Road, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria
Services:

Amala with ewedu, gbegiri, and assorted meats
Other Nigerian dishes (pounded yam, egusi)
Dine-in and takeaway
Cold drinks (Capri-Sonne, Ribena)
Price Range: Affordable; meals range from NGN 1,500–4,000, depending on meat and portion size.
Social Media Accounts:
Instagram: @olaiyafoods
Founder and Owner: Late Alhaja Kudirat Oluwatoyin Ameen
Official Website: Olaiya Foods

2. White House Restaurant

Description: Located in Yaba, White House is a popular amala spot near Lagos’ tech hub, frequented by students, professionals, and celebrities. Known for its affordable, hearty portions and flavorful stews, it’s a no-frills buka with a loyal following despite its unassuming exterior.
Address: 9 Chapel Street, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
Services:

Amala with ewedu, gbegiri, and assorted meats (shaki, pomo)
Other local dishes (jollof rice, egusi)
Dine-in and takeaway
Open late for evening diners
Price Range: Affordable; meals from NGN 1,000–3,000, with assorted meats.
Social Media Accounts: Not publicly listed in available data.
Founder and Owner: Not publicly listed in available data.
Official Website: Not publicly listed; contact via local directories.

3. Amala Yahoo Spot

Description: Amala Yahoo Spot in Ojota is a quintessential buka known for its premium amala served with rich ewedu and gbegiri. Despite its stuffy interior and basic setup with plastic chairs, it’s a must-visit for authentic Yoruba flavors, often crowded at lunchtime.
Address: Bosun Anifowoshe Street, Off Olakunle Road, Ojota, Lagos, Nigeria
Services:

Amala with ewedu, gbegiri, and assorted meats
Nigerian soups (efo riro, egusi)
Dine-in and takeaway
Affordable meal combos
Price Range: Very affordable; meals from NGN 1,000–2,000, including soup and meat.
Social Media Accounts: Not publicly listed in available data.
Founder and Owner: Not publicly listed in available data.
Official Website: Not publicly listed; contact via local directories.

4. Iya Eba

Description: Iya Eba, located on Lagos Island’s Onikan area, is a historic buka with a reputation dating back to the 1980s. Despite its name, it’s celebrated for its amala with ewedu and spicy stews, attracting a diverse crowd from artists to office workers. Parking can be challenging during peak hours.
Address: 6 Berkeley Street, Onikan, Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria
Services:

Amala with ewedu, gbegiri, and assorted meats (pomo, shaki)
Other soups (egusi, efo riro)
Dine-in, cash-only on weekends
Quick service for lunch breaks
Price Range: Affordable; meals from NGN 1,500–3,500.
Social Media Accounts: Not publicly listed in available data.
Founder and Owner: Not publicly listed in available data.
Official Website: Not publicly listed; contact via local directories.

5. Amala Shitta

Description: Amala Shitta, a Surulere icon founded in 1966, is a beloved buka with over 50 years of serving hot, tasty amala. Refurbished by Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, it attracts a mix of students, locals, and elites with its authentic Yoruba dishes and welcoming vibe.
Address: 26 Rabiatu Thomson Crescent, Shitta, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria
Services:

Amala with ewedu, gbegiri, and assorted meats
Other Nigerian dishes (pounded yam, vegetable stew)
Dine-in and takeaway
Community-friendly atmosphere
Price Range: Affordable; meals from NGN 1,000–3,000.
Social Media Accounts: Not publicly listed in available data.
Founder and Owner: Alhaja Afolabi Mariam
Official Website: Not publicly listed; contact via local directories.

6. Topshot Amala

Description: Topshot Amala in Ikoyi caters to upscale amala lovers in Parkview Estate, offering a premium “corporate amala” experience. Known for its high-quality ingredients and flavorful soups, it’s a favorite among professionals, though prices reflect its affluent location.
Address: Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria
Services:

Amala with ewedu, gbegiri, and premium meats (ogufe, beef)
Other Yoruba dishes
Dine-in with upscale ambiance
Takeaway options
Price Range: High-end; meals from NGN 3,000–7,000.
Social Media Accounts: Not publicly listed in available data.
Founder and Owner: Not publicly listed in available data.
Official Website: Not publicly listed; contact via local directories.

7. Amala 1st Bank (Defence Car Park Canteen)

Description: Known as Amala 1st Bank, this Marina-based buka is a lunchtime hotspot for bankers and professionals. Its hot, soft amala and spicy goat meat stew make it a go-to for quick, satisfying meals in Lagos Island’s business district.
Address: Marina, Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria
Services:

Amala with ewedu, gbegiri, and assorted meats
Quick service for lunch breaks
Dine-in and takeaway
Focus on Yoruba soups
Price Range: Affordable; meals from NGN 1,500–3,500.
Social Media Accounts: Not publicly listed in available data.
Founder and Owner: Not publicly listed in available data.
Official Website: Not publicly listed; contact via local directories.

8. Yakoyo Abula Joint

Description: Yakoyo Abula Joint in Victoria Island is a hidden gem for amala enthusiasts, known for its mouthwatering abula (ewedu and gbegiri combo) and generous portions. With a 4.3-star Google rating, it offers a traditional yet accessible dining experience.
Address: Sinari Daranijo Street, Eti-Osa, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
Services:

Amala with abula and assorted meats
Other Nigerian soups (efo riro, ogbono)
Dine-in and takeaway
Community dining vibe
Price Range: Affordable; meals from NGN 1,500–4,000.
Social Media Accounts: Not publicly listed in available data.
Founder and Owner: Not publicly listed in available data.
Official Website: Not publicly listed; contact via local directories.

9. Amoke Oge Amala Joint

Description: Amoke Oge in Somolu is a beloved local spot with a 4.2-star Google rating, offering thick, flavorful amala and hearty soups. Its cozy setting and friendly service create an authentic buka experience, popular among residents for its consistent quality.
Address: 50 Oguntolu Street, Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria
Services:

Amala with ewedu, gbegiri, and assorted meats
Other Nigerian dishes
Dine-in and take away
Cold soft drinks
Price Range: Very affordable; meals from NGN 1,000–2,500.
Social Media Accounts: Not publicly listed in available data.
Founder and Owner: Not publicly listed in available data.
Official Website: Not publicly listed; contact via local directories.

10. Amala Sky Lagos

Description: Amala Sky Lagos in Lekki Phase 1 is a modern amala joint, blending traditional Yoruba flavors with a trendy ambiance. It’s gaining popularity for its delicious amala and fresh fish stew, making it a favorite for foodies seeking a refined buka experience.
Address: Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria
Services:

Amala with ewedu, gbegiri, and fresh fish stew
Other Yoruba staples
Dine-in with modern decor
Takeaway and delivery
Price Range: Mid to high-end; meals from N6,000–15,000.
Social Media Accounts:
Instagram: @amala_sky
Founder and Owner: Not publicly listed in available data.
Official Website: Not publicly listed; contact via Instagram.

Notes

Data Limitations: Comprehensive details for 20 amala joints, including founders, websites, and social media, are limited due to the informal nature of many bukas. This list prioritizes verified data from sources like Eat.Drink.Lagos, PropertyPro Insider, and X posts, focusing on popular spots across Lagos.
Price Range: Prices are approximate and vary based on portion size, soup type, and meat choices (e.g., goat meat, cow tail). Most bukas are affordable, while upscale joints like Amala Sky or Topshot cater to higher budgets. Confirm pricing directly with venues.
Tips for Visiting: Go early (before lunch rush, 1–3 PM) to avoid crowds. Most bukas are cash-only, so carry cash. Expect a lively, communal atmosphere and dress casually. Pair amala with chilled zobo or fura de nunu for a complete experience.
Accessibility: Lagos Mainland (Surulere, Yaba, Ojota) and Island (Ikoyi, Victoria Island) are accessible via Eko or Third Mainland Bridges. Ride-hailing apps like Bolt are recommended, as parking can be limited at popular bukas.
Additional Spots: Other notable amala joints include Amala Canada (Ebute-Metta), Belgium Canteen (Mile 2), and Iya Ope (Oshodi), though some lack detailed ownership or digital presence.

Lagos’ amala joints are more than eateries—they’re cultural hubs where tradition meets flavor. From Olaiya’s smoky amala to Amala Sky’s modern twist, these spots offer unforgettable Yoruba culinary experiences. Roll up your sleeves, wash your hands, and dive into the soulful delight of amala in Nigeria’s vibrant city!