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: Malaika Najem
- Year it started: 2019
- Location: 274 Akin Adesola St, Victoria Island
- Average Menu Price: N25,000
Malaika Najem is an entrepreneur with a passion for design, hospitality, and aesthetics. Her journey began in jewelry-making, founding Malaika Najem Contemporary Jewelry, where she spent four years crafting unique pieces. Educated at Alchimia, she honed her skills in metal and jewelry arts before expanding her creativity into hospitality.
In 2015, she launched The Flowershop, a floral and lifestyle brand that evolved into Flowershop Café in 2019. Located at 274 Akin Adesola St, Victoria Island, the café is safely tucked away in downtown Lagos, offering an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The café is known for its premium menu, where an English breakfast combo starts at N25,000 and could cost more depending on additional selections.
Malaika’s expertise in design and hospitality, refined during her managerial role at Delis, is evident in Flowershop Café’s carefully curated ambiance. It has a 4.5 star rating according to Google Business.
