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: Tobi Hamilton-Founder
- Year it started: 2017
- Location: 4 AJ Marinho Drive, Victoria Island
- Average Menu Price: N20,000
Tobi Hamilton, the founder of Hamilton & Hamilton, a boutique agency established in May 2020, has over 13 years of combined experience in strategy, marketing, public relations, and business development.
Specializing in creating tailored solutions for clients, the agency focuses on telling brand stories and driving business growth through innovative, seamless execution. In addition to her role at Hamilton & Hamilton, she is the Founder and CEO of THE HOUSE Lagos, a unique social venue that blends home-like warmth with a vibrant atmosphere. THE HOUSE offers a space for relaxation, networking, and enjoyment, appealing to both young and old. Since its opening in 2017, it has become one of the most sought-after spots in Lagos.
She is also the Executive Director at Balosh Integrated Services, where she manages operations, business development, and strategy to ensure the company thrives through changing economic climates.
Her earlier career includes stints at G-Star RAW and Abercrombie & Fitch, where she managed operations, marketing, and retail. With expertise in disruptive strategy, she is a graduate of Harvard Business School and holds a CIM Professional Diploma in Marketing.
