In this corner of the globe, the Summer season doesn’t quite adhere to its conventional definition. It’s marked more by incessant rain, ensuing traffic chaos, and the perpetual hustle and bustle of Lagos. The unmistakable sign of “Summer” in Nigeria is the prolonged break for school kids, prompting families to dine out more frequently.

Navigating this terrain proves challenging, given that a majority of Lagos’ dining establishments aren’t particularly accommodating for families. Even those claiming family-friendliness often fall short, lacking children’s menus or engaging activities amidst the backdrop of loud music. However, amid the challenges, a few establishments stand out for their commendable efforts.

CACTUS

LOCATION: 20/24 OZUMBA MBADIWE, VICTORIA ISLAND 

COST RANGE: N7000-N10000

Cactus has solidified its reputation as one of Lagos’ well-regarded family-friendly eateries. With delectable ice cream, an array of sugary baked goods, and miniature meals tailored for little appetites, it emerges as a top choice for families with children.

Their kids’ menu boasts a distinctive Happy Kids meal, featuring a variety of pasta options, mini pizzas, and more, priced between N5000 and N7500 (excluding taxes). Additionally, an inviting outdoor play area allows the little ones to expend their surplus energy.

HARD ROCK CAFÉ

LOCATION: LANDMARK VILLAGE, WATER CORPORATION ROAD, ONIRU, VICTORIA ISLAND COST RANGE: N5000-N10000

Beyond its renowned rock-and-roll theme and classic American burgers, Hard Rock Café offers an entertaining space for kids. The “Hard Rock Roxtars” menu includes staples like pizza, mac n cheese burgers, and more, all capped at N4500 (taxes included).

Each meal is accompanied by a coloring sheet and crayons to keep the youngsters engaged while dining. Moreover, weekends present an opportunity for children to partake in video games (for a fee) and enjoy activities like Lego building and sliding.

RUFUS & BEE

LOCATION: TWINWATERS ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE, OKUNDE BLUEWATER SCHEME, LEKKI PHASE I COST RANGE: N5000-N10000

No compilation of family-friendly spots is complete without mentioning Rufus & Bee. Adhering to their motto of “Eat Drink Play,” their menu caters to both adults and children. Think Jollof rice, mini pretzel dogs, sliders, and chicken tenders, concluding with ice cream or cotton candy for dessert.

Within the same vicinity, a bowling alley and an arcade, boasting over 90 games, await the entire family.

SOMETHING FOR THE GROWN-UPS TOO:

LA CHAUMIERE

LOCATION: 1384 TIAMIYU SAVAGE STREET, VICTORIA ISLAND 

COST RANGE: N5000-N8000

French for “the cottage,” La Chaumiere sets the stage for a comprehensive family dining experience. Featuring a restaurant, a fully operational bakery crafting delightful cakes, and an outdoor play area for children, it ticks all the boxes.

The kid’s menu is extensive, offering waffles, popcorn chicken, burgers, and more, all priced around N5000/N6000, inclusive of either a scoop of ice cream or a juice pack. For gaming enthusiasts, the restaurant provides an array of video games, including Mortal Kombat, FIFA, and Virtual Reality (VR) games, available for N2000 per game. On request, La Chaumiere also hosts kids’ birthday parties.

THE WINE LAB

LOCATION: 11A GORIOLA STREET, OFF ADEOLA ODEKU STREET, VICTORIA ISLAND COST RANGE: N5000-N10000

While The Wine Lab exudes an unmistakably ‘adult’ vibe, it surprisingly possesses a peculiar family-friendly charm. The children’s menu offers traditional fare like hot dogs and mini pizzas, alongside intriguing options like chicken goujons, priced between N5000-N7000 (excluding taxes).

During weekends from 10 am to 4 pm, The Wine Lab organizes a ‘playdate,’ allowing children to enjoy the well-equipped outdoor space and meals at a fixed rate of N5000. The only stipulation is that a maximum of 2 kids’ meals must accompany an adult meal.

CI GUSTA

LOCATION: 2 IBIYINKA OLORUNBE CLOSE, OFF AMODU OJIKUTU, BISHOP OLUWOLE, VICTORIA ISLAND COST RANGE: N5000-N8000

This Italian establishment stands out as an ideal venue for a genuine family dining experience. Alongside their renowned gelato and pastry offerings, Ci Gusta’s kid’s menu features favorites like burgers, nuggets, fries, fish fingers, and mac n cheese, all priced at N5000. The regular menu showcases crepes, waffles, and kid-friendly mocktails.

A vibrant playroom adjacent to the dining area provides the perfect space for playtime.

CREPAWAY

LOCATION: 1089 ADEOLA ODEKU STREET, VICTORIA ISLAND 

COST RANGE: N8000-N12000

The focal point of this casual dining spot is its dedicated kid’s corner, serving both as a play area and an event center. For an entry fee of N5000, youngsters can immerse themselves in various fun games and activities, including rock climbing.

On the culinary front, Crepaway offers combo meals like burgers, mini pizzas, and chicken tenders for the little ones, accompanied by a glass of juice and priced between N8000-N12000.

JOLLOF BY JARA

LOCATION: 33 FOLA OSIBO ROAD, LEKKI PHASE I 

COST RANGE: N4000-N6000

Beyond its mission to settle the Jollof Wars by serving Nigerian, Ghanaian, and Senegalese Jollof in one space, Jollof by Jara provides a family-friendly environment. With seating arrangements for large groups, highchairs for younger children, a kid’s menu, and a play area, it caters to family needs.

The kid’s menu, though limited to rice options and fries, is reasonably priced at N4000. Additionally, the special “Child’s Chapman” drink, served in a fun cup, along with milkshakes or ice cream, ensures a delightful dining experience.

Upon finishing their meals, children can head to the play area, known as “Ronnie’s Yard,” adjacent to the building, open until 7 pm daily. Extra points for not having to shout over background music.

THEMED EXPERIENCE:

AMAZONIA

LOCATION: 5 ADEOLA HOPEWELL STREET, VICTORIA ISLAND COST: N7000

Amazonia may lack a play area or a kid’s menu, but it compensates with an entire jungle for children to explore. The immersive decor in this rainforest-themed restaurant is well-conceived, though be prepared for occasional taunts from someone in a gorilla costume, which may or may not appeal to the kids.

As for the cuisine, Amazonia offers a diverse selection of global dishes, including seafood, noodle dishes, and tacos.

ALICE GARDEN RESTAURANT

LOCATION: 57 ODUDUWA WAY, IKEJA GRA COST RANGE: N3000-N5000

At Alice Garden Restaurant, there’s no kid’s menu or play area in sight, but the entire establishment exudes a fun ambiance. Drawing inspiration from the classic Alice in Wonderland, the overly-cute aesthetic, evident in both presentation and decor, resonates well with children. A giant teddy bear adds to the whimsical atmosphere.

Cuisine at Alice Garden is primarily Chinese, with a sprinkle of good Nigerian offerings. Chinese dishes, designed for sharing, feature noodles, rice, and sauces, served in substantial portions. However, beware of the sneaky 6% service charge.

In navigating Lagos’ dining landscape, these eateries cater to family needs and elevate the dining experience with their unique offerings and ambience. See Plazzaa.com for more.