Lagos, Nigeria’s most beautiful and busy city, is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and most deliciously street food.
But with so many options, where exactly can you eat the best street food in Lagos?
This guide walks you through the top street food locations, what to try, how much to budget, and even tips for safe and satisfying experiences.
Why Lagos Street Food is Worth Trying
Here’s why Lagos street food is a must:
- Affordable: Most street food in Lagos costs less than ₦1,000.
- Flavor-packed: Local spices and fresh ingredients make every bite memorable.
- Cultural experience: Eating street food connects you with the true heartbeat of the city.
- Convenient: Vendors are everywhere in traffic, markets, and busy junctions.
Top Places to Eat Street Food in Lagos
Here are the top-rated and popular places where locals and tourists enjoy street food in Lagos.
1. Ojuelegba (Surulere)
Famous for: Suya, Puff-puff, Akara
Ojuelegba is one of the busiest intersections in Lagos and is always alive with aroma and action. You’ll find suya vendors slicing hot, spicy beef on skewers late into the night. Try the Yoruba-style Akara (bean cakes) and hot puff-puff from roadside fryers.
2. Yaba Market
Famous for: Fried yam, Akara, Moi Moi
Yaba is a student-friendly area filled with budget-friendly street food. Near the railway line and market stalls, you’ll find vendors frying dundu (fried yam) and serving it with spicy pepper sauce. Don’t miss out on the Moi Moi (steamed bean pudding) cooked in traditional leaves.
Budget: ₦200 – ₦500 per item.
3. Lekki Phase 1 – Admiralty Way
Famous for: Shawarma, Chicken & Chips, Small Chops
Though more modern and upscale, Lekki still maintains its street food culture. Along Admiralty Road, you’ll spot well-decorated food trucks and stands offering Nigerian-style shawarma, small chops, and grilled chicken.
Good for: Clean, semi-street food experience with better hygiene.
4. Obalende (Ikoyi Border)
Famous for: Boli (Roasted Plantain), Suya, Roasted Corn
Obalende is a food lover’s paradise. Try hot boli (roasted plantain) with groundnut or spicy sauce, or go for the grilled corn during rainy season. Suya here is made with beef, chicken, or kidney—served with onions and pepper mix.
Best time to visit: Evening time, around 6–10 PM.
5. University of Lagos (UNILAG) Area
Famous for: Nkwobi, Indomie, Egg Rolls
Students and visitors love the street food culture around the UNILAG gate. You’ll find food vendors selling hot Indomie noodles cooked with fried eggs and sausages, as well as egg rolls and fish rolls. Some stalls offer local soups and swallow too.
Budget: ₦500 – ₦1,000 for a full plate.
6. Mile 12 Market
Famous for: Fresh fruit, Roasted Plantain, Coconut snacks
Not just a place for raw food shopping, Mile 12 is known for its variety of quick snacks and seasonal fruits. You can grab fresh coconut, roasted groundnuts, or a mix of local fruit salad at cheap rates.
Try: Fresh tiger nuts and coconut water for refreshment.
7. Iyana Ipaja
Famous for: Agbo Jedi Jedi, Local rice (Ofada), Fried plantain
For those who enjoy traditional Yoruba flavors, Iyana Ipaja is perfect. Vendors here sell herbal drinks (Agbo), Ofada rice, and fried plantain with pepper sauce, known as “gizdodo.”
Note: Agbo has a bitter taste, but locals believe it’s medicinal.
8. Ajah Market Area
Famous for: Beans & Bread, Akamu (Pap) and Akara
In the mornings, the Ajah market area buzzes with women selling hot akara and freshly made pap served in takeaway packs. Try the Beans and Bread combo, locally known as “ewa agoyin.”
Budget: ₦300–₦700 for a hearty breakfast.
9. CMS & Marina Area
Famous for: Snacks, Roasted Snacks, Bottled Zobo
Because it’s a major business district, this area offers quick bites and drinks for the working class. You’ll find meat pies, samosa, and local drinks like Zobo and Kunu in plastic bottles.
Hygiene tip: Stick to vendors with clean stalls and disposable packaging.
What Street Foods to Try in Lagos
Here’s a quick list of popular Lagos street foods and what they are:
| Food Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Suya | Spicy grilled meat on sticks, served with pepper |
| Puff-puff | Deep-fried dough balls, slightly sweet |
| Akara | Fried bean cakes, served with bread or pap |
| Boli | Roasted plantain, usually eaten with groundnuts |
| Fried Yam | Sliced yam fried and served with spicy sauce |
| Ofada Rice | Local rice served with thick pepper sauce |
| Indomie Noodles | Fast noodles cooked with egg and sausage |
| Beans & Bread | Mashed beans in pepper sauce with soft bread |
Hygiene Tips When Eating Street Food in Lagos
- Watch them cook it – Freshly cooked food is safer.
- Go to busy spots – High turnover means food is always fresh.
- Avoid cold sauces – Unless you’re sure of cleanliness.
- Carry hand sanitizer – Especially when eating with your hands.
- Use bottled or sachet water – To avoid stomach troubles.
Estimated Street Food Budget in Lagos (2025)
| Meal Type | Price Range (₦) |
|---|---|
| Light snack (Puff-puff, Akara) | ₦100 – ₦300 |
| Medium meal (Shawarma, Suya) | ₦800 – ₦1,500 |
| Full meal (Ofada, Rice & Stew) | ₦1,000 – ₦2,000 |
| Drinks (Zobo, Soft drinks) | ₦100 – ₦300 |
Tips for Street Food Tour in Lagos
- Go with a local if it’s your first time.
- Evenings are better for most street food.
- Avoid eating during heavy traffic to reduce dust exposure.
- Bring small cash – Many vendors don’t take transfers or POS.
- Try one new dish a day to avoid food shock.