These restaurants bring a taste of Africa right to the heart of Houston! And we tried them all!
Lately, I’ve been on a quest for the perfect blend of spices that will transport my taste buds straight to the heart of Africa. Lo and behold, my journey led me to the vibrant and flavorful world of African restaurants in Houston!
From tantalizingly spicy dishes that make you reach for a glass of water faster than a sprinter to hearty meals that leave you feeling like you’ve just won a food marathon, these restaurants have it all.
Imagine a plate piled high with aromatic jollof rice, tender grilled meats infused with secret spices, and a side of laughter as you attempt to conquer the heat of a Scotch bonnet pepper.
So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the top African restaurants in Houston – where every bite is a flavor explosion waiting to happen!
1. Safari Restaurant
Address: 10014 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77036
Website: https://thesafarirestaurant.com/
Contact Details: +1 713-541-4436
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 11 AM–2 AM
Safari Restaurant, established in 1994, is Houston’s first and longest-running Nigerian restaurant. Known for its authentic Nigerian-style cooking, it has earned a reputation as one of the best African restaurants in the city.
Specializing in traditional native soups, nkowbi, and garnished snails, they offer a menu that caters to all major events. They provide hall rentals and have a diverse selection of soups, appetizers, entrees, and traditional Nigerian dishes to choose from.
Their extensive menu includes popular dishes like egusi, oha, and jollof rice, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all patrons. They are open every day of the year, including holidays, to cater to your Nigerian food cravings.
With options for takeout and dine-in, the restaurant ensures fast service and a welcoming atmosphere. Moreover, they provide a variety of offerings, including alcohol, comfort food, healthy options, late-night food, small plates, and vegetarian options.
| Pro tip: Some dishes can be quite spicy, so if you’re sensitive to heat, don’t hesitate to ask for milder versions. Conversely, if you love spicy food, let them know, and they’ll make sure your meal has the perfect kick. |
2. Afrikiko
Media: Folk Lord Sparkles
Address: 9625 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77036
Website: https://afrikikohouston.com/
Contact Details: +1 713-773-1400, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 12:30–10 PM
Afrikiko Restaurant offers an authentic West African dining experience, featuring a variety of delicious Ghanaian and African homestyle dishes. Known for their spicy and tasty offerings, Afrikiko ensures every meal is a flavorful adventure.
Diners here rave about the fresh ingredients and friendly staff, who make sure each dish is prepared to perfection. Favorites include fufu, banku with peanut soup, and palmnut soup, all made from scratch and leaving patrons satisfied and eager for more.
The rustic atmosphere and light African music playing in the background create a welcoming and immersive environment. Whether you’re new to Ghanaian cuisine or a seasoned fan, the friendly staff make every visit enjoyable and informative.
Owned by a Ghanaian family, Afrikiko is a hidden gem, tucked behind a Burger King. The restaurant also features satellite TV playing soccer, adding to the genuine African experience.
| Pro tip: Don’t hesitate to ask if your favorite Ghanaian dish isn’t on the menu. The chefs are often willing to make something special if they have the ingredients, which is a great way to enjoy something truly unique. |
3. Dakar Street Food
Address: 2923 Walnut Bend Ln, Houston, TX 77042
Website: https://dakarstreetfood.com/
Contact Details: +1 281-846-6420, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday: 11 AM–9 PM, Tuesday-Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
Dakar Street Food brings the vibrant flavors of the Atlantic Coast of West Africa to Houston. Known for its unique blend of spices and warm hospitality, it transports diners to the bustling streets of Dakar with every bite.
The menu features traditional offerings like Mafe, a rich peanut stew, and Poisson Braisé, a delicious grilled fish dish. Daily specials such as Paella and Jerk Chicken add variety and excitement, making each visit a new culinary adventure.
Refreshing drinks like the Bissap Ginger Cocktail, Bouye Bissap, and Bouye Dragon Fruit Lemonade are crafted to perfection, providing a delightful complement to the flavorful dishes. These beverages are popular for their unique, refreshing tastes.
Primarily a takeout operation, Dakar Street Food serves Senegalese and Caribbean food that hits the spot. The restaurant also offers a cozy atmosphere for those dining in, with nicely cooked lamb, chicken, and fish on the menu.
| Pro tip: The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, but seating is limited. If you’re planning to dine in, try to avoid peak hours or be prepared for a short wait during busy times. |
4. Suya Hut
Address: 11720 W Airport Blvd #1600, Meadows Place, TX 77477
Website: https://therealsuyahut.com/
Contact Details: +1 281-265-1411, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Suya Hut is one of the best African restaurants in Houston, offering an authentic taste of West African cuisine. Known for its specialty, suya, a Northern Nigerian beef or chicken kebab, this eatery provides a unique dining experience with its flavorful dishes.
The suya, cooked over a charcoal grill and served on a wooden skewer, is available individually or as a plate with rice and plantains. Topped with a crunchy peanut sauce, it’s a tasty snack that leaves a lasting impression.
Beyond suya, the menu includes other West African favorites such as Egusi soup with cassava tuwo. This dish, along with the suya, is perfect for sharing with friends, making it a fun finger food experience.
The sweetly spicy ginger-habanero marinade on the suya sets your taste buds alight, but pairing it with jollof rice and plantains helps balance the heat. This combination ensures a satisfying and flavorful meal.
For a complete experience, you can wash down your meal with a traditional drink and enjoy the cozy ambiance of Suya Hut.
| Pro tip: Don’t just stick to the suya, even though it’s amazing. The menu has a variety of West African dishes that are equally delicious. Trying different items gives you a fuller experience of the cuisine. |
5. Baba Jollof
Address: 8330 W Bellfort Ave Ste C, Houston, TX 77071
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/babajlounge/
Contact Details: +1 346-900-6832, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 12–9 PM
- Tuesday: 12–9 PM
- Wednesday: 12–9 PM
- Thursday: 12–9 PM
- Friday: 12–9 PM
- Saturday: 1–9 PM
- Sunday: 1–9 PM
Baba Jollof offers a taste of Nigerian cuisine in a vibrant and welcoming setting. Known for its delicious jollof rice, the restaurant eliminates the playful competition over who has the best recipe by delivering a version that appeals to everyone.
Despite its nightclub-like appearance with blue mood lighting and glossy couches, Baba Jollof is unpretentious and cozy. The ambiance is perfect for both casual dining and more festive gatherings, making it a versatile spot for any occasion.
The menu features an array of traditional West African dishes. Guests rave about the smoky beef suya and the goat pepper soup, both packed with flavors that challenge your spice tolerance in the best way possible.
Baba Jollof is popular for quick takeout lunches during the day, but the real magic happens in the evening. The dramatic purple mood lighting transforms the space into what feels like a secret club, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal.
Aside from jollof rice, the menu includes diverse offerings such as chicken or lamb curry and fresh salads. The side options, like Suya and Peppered Goat Meat, complement the mains beautifully and are often ordered together.
| Pro tip: You can enhance your dining experience with traditional drinks like Malt Drink and Zobo Drink. These beverages complement the spicy and savory flavors of the food, adding an authentic touch to your meal. |
6. KFFO Afro Steakhouse
Address: 14097 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77082
Website: https://kffosteakhouse.com/?v=47e5dceea252
Contact Details: +1 346-241-9895, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 2 PM–2 AM
KFFO Afro Steakhouse offers a unique fusion of West African and steakhouse cuisines. The menu features staple dishes like goat soup and jollof rice, but with innovative twists that set it apart from other eateries.
One of the standout items is the “suya toast motherf*cker.” It combines the spicy and seasoned suya with two slabs of toast, creating possibly the spiciest grilled cheese you’ll ever taste.
While most patrons opt for takeout, the minimalist spot also offers a cozy setting for those who prefer to dine in. The restaurant caters to a variety of dining experiences, making it ideal for romantic date nights or casual gatherings with friends and family.
The menu’s diverse offerings, from seasoned tilapia to suya shawarma wraps, ensure that there’s something for everyone. One highlight is the Afro Steak, a perfectly cooked steak served with plantains and a side of your choice.
To complement the savory dishes, KFFO Afro Steakhouse offers a selection of African-inspired cocktails and desserts. This not only enhances the meal but also provides a complete and satisfying dining experience.
| Pro tip: Check out their weekday lunch specials for great deals on your favorite dishes. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. |
7. ChòpnBlọk
Address: 401 Franklin St Suite A, Houston, TX 77201
Website: https://chopnblok.co/
Contact Details: +1 281-631-5009, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
ChòpnBlọk offers a unique fusion of West African cuisine with a modern twist. Located in the vibrant POST Market food hall, ChòpnBlọk’s neon sign and the crowd it attracts are testament to its popularity and the quality of its offerings.
ChòpnBlọk was founded by Ope Amosu, a Rice University graduate and son of Nigerian immigrants. It started as a pop-up sensation and has now found a permanent home downtown.
Their menu features standout dishes like the Trad, which includes a generous serving of jollof rice, plantains, and yaji vegetables. This dish, along with others like the Golden Bowl, combines kelewele, coconut curry, and jollof jambalaya.
For those looking for a quick snack, they hand hand pies and gourmet popcorn, perfect for taking back to the office or enjoying on the go. The restaurant’s casual, fast-casual atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for both a quick lunch and a leisurely dinner.
| Pro tip: The staff at ChòpnBlọk are super friendly and often offer samples. It’s a great way to try different dishes and find your favorite without committing to a full plate right away. |
8. Aria Suya Kitchen
Address: 6357 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77057
Website: https://www.ariasuyakitchen.com/
Contact Details: +1 832-831-4372, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
- Saturday: 1–9:30 PM
- Sunday: 1–6 PM
Aria Suya Kitchen in Uptown Houston has an impressive menu of Nigerian fusion cuisine. Known for their spicy skewers, the restaurant blends West African flavors with American-inspired dishes, offering a unique dining experience.
Guests can savor dishes like spicy beef with traditional jollof rice and plantains, or delve into the rich flavors of okra seafood soup and fufu. The fufu, made from boiled and pounded white yams, pairs perfectly with an array of hearty soups and stews.
The atmosphere at Aria Suya Kitchen feels like a semi-exclusive club, thanks to plush booths and the latest Afrobeat tunes playing throughout. This vibrant energy enhances the dining experience, making it a popular spot for both casual and special outings.
The decor, while stylish, is secondary to the culinary delights on offer. Signature dishes include earthy egusi soup, beef-filled meat pies, and the sizzling suya, which remains a crowd favorite.
| Pro tip: For first-timers, trying the suya platter is a must. The variety of meats and wings gives you a great taste of what Aria Suya Kitchen specializes in. |
9. Jollof Rice King
Address: 3833 Richmond Ave., Houston, TX 77027
Website: https://jollofriceking.com/
Contact Details: +1 713-589-4699, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 12 AM–8 PM
Jollof Rice King has a wide range of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This restaurant provides curbside, takeout, and delivery services, ensuring you can enjoy their delicious meals wherever you are.
Their commitment to authentic flavors shines through as everything is made from scratch using traditional spices and ingredients. Popular choices include their soups, which come with meat or fish options, catering to diverse preferences.
A fast-casual offshoot of Taste of Nigeria, Jollof Rice King is known for its vibrant and flavorful dishes like coconut rice with stewed goat and efo riro, a Nigerian spinach stew. Of course, their namesake jollof rice remains a beloved classic.
Appetizers such as Scotch eggs and pies are favorites among diners, setting the stage for a satisfying meal. The suya skewers add a fiery kick to your meal, but washing it down with a malt drink will help you savor every bite.
| Pro tip: If you’re in a hurry or prefer eating at home, their curbside pickup service is super convenient. Just place your order in advance, and they’ll bring it right to your car. |
10. Chez Michelle Restaurant
Address: 6991 S Texas 6, Houston, TX 77083
Website: https://chezmichellerestaurant.com/
Contact Details: +1 281-372-8925, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 12 PM–12 AM, Sunday: 12–10 PM
Chez Michelle Restaurant offers a unique and immersive experience. This restaurant feels like an intimate concert venue that serves stellar Cameroonian cuisine.
Loungy leather couches line the walls, providing a cozy atmosphere, while a large performance space hosts live Cameroonian music on weekends. Even without the live music, the food such as the smoky drum fish steals the show every day.
Adding an Orijin beer to your meal will make you feel like a regular on your first visit. Open until midnight daily, Chez Michelle is the perfect late-night spot for a warm bowl of ndole soup with fresh shrimp to cap off your evening.
This African-inspired restaurant and grill is known for its grilled whole fish and various seafood options. Whether you visit for lunch or dinner, their dishes are sure to awaken your taste buds.
Chez Michelle’s menu includes a range of traditional Cameroonian dishes that highlight bold and savory flavors. Each visit promises a culinary journey that leaves you eager to return.
| Pro tip: The restaurant can get quite busy on weekends, especially with the live music. It’s a good idea to make a reservation if you’re planning to visit during peak times to ensure you get a good seat. |
11. Calabar Cuisine
Address: 13505 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/people/Calabar-Cusine-Authentic-African-Restaurant/100067720842391/
Contact Details: +1 281-530-2600
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 12–9 PM, Sunday: Closed
Calabar Cuisine celebrates West Africa’s culinary heritage with a diverse menu rich in authentic flavors. As a family-owned business, it prioritizes genuine taste and a cozy dining experience.
Home-style meals like grilled fish and jollof, alongside special dishes like fried spicy chicken or goat, cater to varied palates. Additional highlights include afia efere and an array of rice, soup, beans, and yam dishes.
The restaurant emphasizes high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods in every dish. A vibrant ambience enhanced by Afrobeats, especially when the DJ is spinning, also creates an inviting atmosphere in this restaurant.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss their Edikanikong, a standout vegetable soup that’s a specialty here. Packed with leafy greens, it’s both nutritious and delicious, perfect for anyone looking to experience authentic Calabar flavors. |
12. Amala Joint Restaurant
Address: 6271 S Texas 6, Houston, TX 77083
Website: https://www.amalajointhouston.com/
Contact Details: +1 281-721-2982
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: 10 AM–10 PM, Saturday: 4–10 PM, Sunday: 10 AM–10 PM
Renowned for its outstanding African cuisine, Amala Joint Restaurant prides itself on excellent service and a friendly staff. With high-quality and fresh ingredients, they offer a modern take on classic dishes.
With an enticing menu that includes efo riro, okra stew, and jollof rice, Amala Joint is worth the trek to Sugar Land. The coconut rice with gbegiri, a Nigerian bean soup, is another dish that’s highly recommended.
Other scrumptious options include meat pie, egusi soup, and Ogbono soup. The restaurant also features mains such as Designer Stew and Nigerian Fried Rice, along with sides like Side Amala and Side Poundo Yam.
Ade, a friendly staff member, ensures generous portions and great service, making each visit memorable. This restaurant is a top choice for anyone seeking authentic and delectable Nigerian cuisine.
| Pro tip: You may consider ordering a variety of dishes to share with your group. This way, you can sample more of what the menu has to offer. The coconut rice with gbegiri, for example, is a great dish to split among friends. |
13. Taste of Nigeria
Address: 5959 Richmond Ave. #160, Houston, TX 77057
Website: https://tasteofnigeria.us/
Contact Details: +1 713-589-9055, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 12–10 PM
Taste of Nigeria is celebrated for its authentic Nigerian cuisine, offering a healthier take on African comfort food with vibrant seasonings. Utilizing the freshest West African ingredients, the restaurant ensures each dish is deeply rooted in tradition.
The culinary experience here extends beyond Nigerian flavors, featuring dishes from Senegal and Angola as well. The menu boasts a diverse array of pepper soups and plates with goat, oxtail, and fish, highlighting the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Owners Tiffaney and Rasak Odewale bring the essence of West Africa to Houston through their passion for Nigerian cuisine. By using the freshest ingredients, they prepare traditional recipes that have been cherished in their family for generations.
Taste of Nigeria was established to offer more authentic Nigerian food options to the community. It has also become a hub for the West African immigrant community, known for its extensive selection of meat, seafood, and plantain dishes.
| Pro tip: If you’re planning an event, Taste of Nigeria’s catering is fantastic. They bring the same quality and flavor to their catered dishes as they do in the restaurant. |
14. Cafe Abuja
Address: 15015 Westheimer Rd ste c, Houston, TX 77082
Website: https://cafeabuja.com/
Contact Details: +1 713-344-1569, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM, Sunday: 12–7 PM
Cafe Abuja is a premier Nigerian/West African restaurant and cafe in Houston. Offering a range of Igbo Kwenu and Epe Fisherman menu selections, it presents an authentic culinary experience that showcases the rich flavors of Nigerian cuisine.
When it comes to lunch options, Cafe Abuja is a top choice, especially for those looking to savor authentic African flavors. Their Goat Pepper Soup, made with goat meat and tripe, is renowned for its spicy punch, leaving diners thoroughly satisfied.
What sets Cafe Abuja apart is its commitment to quality, freshness, and seasonality in every dish. Whether it’s tender beef or flavorful stews, each bite reflects the restaurant’s dedication to excellence.
Beyond the food, Cafe Abuja offers a welcoming and friendly environment that enhances the dining experience. Customers often praise not just the delicious food but also the warm hospitality they receive.
Here, you can indulge in their signature suya, oxtail, and chicken stew. To complement these dishes, you can try their refreshing ice cream or a selection of fine beverages like scotch and beer.
| Pro tip: Take some time to explore the Igbo Kwenu menu selections. These dishes often showcase traditional Nigerian flavors and cooking techniques, offering a deeper dive into the cuisine. |
