Lagos ranks as the fifth richest city in Africa, and is home to over 50% of Nigeria’s wealthiest people according to Henley & Partners.
With its growing class of high-net-worth individuals, the city has become a hotspot for luxury dining, where fine cuisine thrives regardless of Nigeria’s economic fluctuations.
Home to approximately 5,400 millionaires, 16 centimillionaires, and 3 billionaires, Lagos naturally attracts an ecosystem of high-end restaurants.
Upscale neighborhoods like Victoria Island and Lekki house some of the city’s finest dining establishments, each offering an exclusive culinary experience tailored to a wealthy clientele.
But in Lagos, fine dining is not just about food—it is a statement. From opulent interiors to meticulously crafted menus and top-tier service, these restaurants provide an experience that goes beyond the plate, catering to a discerning audience that values sophistication and status.
This thriving fine dining culture is part of a larger hospitality industry that plays a significant role in Nigeria’s economy. The country’s food industry alone is valued at $209 billion, according to Rushdi Ibrahim, Managing Director of Burger King. He notes that Nigeria’s expanding middle class and growing appetite for global cuisine make it an attractive market for both local and international hospitality brands looking to expand.
In this article, we spotlight 10 founders behind some of Lagos’ most exclusive fine dining establishments—exploring their journeys, their vision, and how their ventures continue to redefine food and luxury in the city.
- Owner: Marie Louise Sassine
- Year it started: 2017
- Location: 4A Akin Olugbade street, Lago
- Average Menu Price: N30,000
Marie Louise Sassine is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Noir Lagos, a French-inspired Lagos casual fine dining restaurant founded in 2017. With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, her experience level cuts across multiple continents, including Switzerland, the United States, Ghana, and Nigeria.
A graduate of César Ritz Colleges Switzerland, Sassine earned a bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, alongside specialized certifications in Food & Beverage Operations and Train the Trainer Programs. Her career began with international management training roles at Marriott Hotel in the United States and Le Diwane Restaurant in Switzerland, providing her with a strong foundation in food service.
She later transitioned into aviation catering, taking on senior sales and management roles at First Catering Ltd. and Airline Services Ltd., where she led operations across Accra, Lagos, and Abuja.
At Noir Lagos, where a full-course meal can cost an average of N30,000+ it has a 4.5-star rating on Google Business.
Note: The individuals featured in this compilation have been carefully selected by a distinguished panel of editors, experts, and analysts at Nairametrics. It is important to note that none of the individuals listed have solicited their inclusion. While this list aims to be comprehensive, it is by no means exhaustive; numerous other contributors have played a role in the restaurant fine dining experience in Lagos. This compilation is exclusive to Nairametrics and may be updated periodically to reflect changes and advancements in the field. Feedback will be appreciated.
