Close your eyes and imagine the sizzle of Suya skewers charring over an open flame, the intoxicating aroma of ginger and garlic wafting through the air, the vibrant hues of red peppers and emerald greens dancing on your plate. This is Nigerian cuisine in Ottawa—a symphony of flavors and textures.
Here are some Nigerian restaurants in Ottawa that will awaken your senses and transport you to another world. Be warned that Nigerian Food is hot and spicy!!! 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Suya Palace
Address: 1066 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4T3
Business website: https://www.suyapalace.com/
Suya Palace is a Nigerian/African Charcoal Grill and is located on Somerset. Among the locals, this one is usually referred to as the Best Nigerian Restaurant in the Ottawa region and I agree.
The restaurant is located not too far from downtown and has usually been my go to spot for Nigerian Food! Here are their most popular menu items –
- Suya Beef – Beef infused with aromatic Nigerian spices!
- Suya Goat – Goat meat (has a more chewy texture)
- Suya Chicken – Chicken infused with aromatic Nigerian spices!
Besides that they also have a variety of Nigerian soups which are served with meat and fish, something that you would not find at other restaurants in Ottawa.
If you do not enjoy meat, try their fried plantains and jollof rice, both of which are yummy!
Quick summary about Suya Palace –
- Nigerian Cuisine
- Large dining area
- Takeout option available
- Casual dining
- Variety of Suya
- Limited vegan menu
- Family friendly environment
- Catering service
- Located in Downtown Ottawa
Suya Joint/African Grill
Address: 1383 Clyde Ave., Nepean, ON K2G 3H7
Business website: https://suya-joint.com/
Located in Nepean, Suya Joint is another place that offers a casual atmosphere to explore Nigerian Food. They also have vegetarian options like veggie skewers with Tofu and Bell Pepper.
While there are dining options available at the location, the restaurant mainly caters to people who are looking to grab and go with their meals.
- Nigerian restaurant
- Takeout oriented
- Casual atmosphere
- Dining options available
- Bit of a drive from downtown ottawa
How has your experience been visiting Nigerian restaurants in Ottawa? Do you know of any other place that offers Nigerian food in the Ottawa region? Let us know!
Tom Mehra, an Ottawa-based Software Engineer with a Masters in Information Systems from the University of Texas at Dallas, shares insights on local food spots and top attractions in Canada and the US. He’s also a former resident of the US, UK, and India, and in 2023, his blog was nominated for an Ottawa Award by Faces Magazine. He is also a cat sitter.