16 Extraordinary West African Restaurants in New York City
West African Restaurants in New York City offer a unique and delicious dining experience. These restaurants bring the vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage of West Africa to the diverse food scene of NYC. Whether you're in the mood for spicy stews, fragrant jollof rice, or succulent grilled meats, West African Restaurants in New York City provide an authentic taste of the region's diverse culinary traditions. Get ready to indulge in a flavor adventure at one of these must-visit eateries in the heart of the city.
1. Africa Kine
One of the few African restaurants in Harlem

The food at this establishment is widely praised for its delicious taste and authenticity. Many guests have commented on the great flavor and seasoning of the dishes, which contribute to an overall satisfying dining experience. However, there have been some complaints about the food being cold upon delivery, which may detract from the quality of the meal.
In terms of cost, the prices are generally viewed as reasonable and affordable. The large portion sizes also provide good value for money, as guests are able to enjoy a substantial meal without paying a high price. This balance of affordable cost and generous portion sizes adds to the positive dining experience at this establishment.
2. Pikine
Only Senegalese restaurant in Harlem

Pikine is a small, intimate African restaurant with only six tables, giving it an cozy and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is located at 243 West 116th St, New York, New York, 1002
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3. Buka
Authentic Indonesian cuisine in the heart of Brooklyn

The food at this establishment is known for its delicious and authentic taste. Popular dishes include Jollof Rice, Fish Pepper Soup, Suya, Red Snapper with Fufu and Sauce, and the pounded-yam fufu paired with goat as the main dish and egusi sauce. The drink options also include palm wine and fresh ginger juice, which adds to the unique and enjoyable dining experience.
In addition to the delicious offerings, the food is prepared and served in a timely manner. The fast service ensures that customers can enjoy their meals without a long wait, even during busy hours. The combination of authentic taste, quick service, and enjoyable ambiance makes this a must-visit destination for those looking for a taste of West African cuisine.
4. Le Baobab
One of the few African restaurants in the area

The best Thiebou Jen I've tried can be found at Le Baobab. It's packed with flavor and offers great value for money. I mistakenly purchased Thiebou Jen from a nearby location when Le Baobab was out of stock, but it was a disappointing experience as it lacked flavor. Therefore, I plan to continue ordering Thiebou Jen from Le Baobab for the near future.
Le Baobab is a local Senegalese eatery in Brooklyn that consistently serves delicious food. Although it may not be a fancy sit-down spot, it offers tasty, generous portions of healthy food. The Thiebou Djen (Jollof Rice with grilled fish) is an excellent choice and often sells out by early afternoon. As an alternative, I would recommend trying the Jollof Rice with Chicken.
5. Africana
One of the few African restaurants in the area, offering authentic and flavorful dishes

Africana is a restaurant that specializes in West African cuisine, known for its attentive servers who provide excellent knowledge about the food. A popular dish at the restaurant is the okra soup with FuFu, although some customers find the chicken leg that accompanies it to be too large.
Another popular choice at Africana is the spicy goat pepper soup. Customers have described this soup as not only delicious but also particularly spicy, making it a great option for those who enjoy heat. It is often enjoyed with instant noodles, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
6. Joloff
One of the few Senegalese restaurants in Brooklyn

An amazing dining experience awaited at a Senegalese restaurant, which looked simple from the outside but was cozy and welcoming inside. The staff provided excellent, friendly service and offered great advice on food choices. The Yassa chicken was an exotic and delightfully tasty option, while the maple lamb was also a hit. The alcohol-free cocktails and juices were a nice bonus, and if given the chance, we would definitely return.
Craving authentic West African food, we ordered the Tiebuu Ganar, chicken stewed in vegetables with joloff rice and plantains, and the Tiebuu Jeun, baked fish with vegetables and joloff rice for our son. The food was delicious and satisfied our cravings for West African cuisine. The chicken was tender and well-seasoned, while the fish was perfectly cooked and flavorful. The joloff rice was aromatic and complemented the dishes well, and the plantains provided a sweet contrast to the savory stew. We were more than satisfied with our meals.
7. Teranga
Offers a unique cultural and culinary experience in the heart of NYC

Teranga is a West African restaurant that offers a variety of dishes and ingredients sourced from different regions of West Africa, such as Nigerian beef suya and Moroccan chermoula. The menu features affordable prices, with no item costing more than $18. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available.
Teranga is situated in the African cultural center and provides a spacious and beautifully decorated dining area adorned with African art and photography. The restaurant's flavorful dishes, such as the tasty yassa grilled chicken, are carefully prepared and sure to please.
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8. Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi
Award-winning restaurant by top chef Kwame Onwuachi

The egusi dumplings were a tasty addition to the meal, but paled in comparison to the other standout dishes. Their flavor profile seemed lacking and dull when set against the more vibrant and dynamic offerings.
On the other hand, the short rib pastrami suya was a clear standout. This dish, featuring beef brined in Jewish deli spices and Nigerian marinades before being braised for hours, delivered an unforgettable flavor experience. With just one bite, it was clear that this dish was something truly special.
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9. Voilà Afrique
One of the few high-end African restaurants in NYC

The Joloff rice with fish is a must-try at this hidden gem of a restaurant. The dish features perfectly flavored rice with a slight smoky taste that provides a pleasant surprise. The fish is crispy and cooked just right, making for a delicious meal. However, the seating is limited, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.
The service at this restaurant is commendable, but it loses some points due to its difficult-to-locate location. The address alone may not be enough to find the entrance, and you may need to go about a quarter block down 45th Street from 2nd Ave toward the UN to locate it. The entrance is easy to miss, so keep an eye out for it on your right. Despite the location issue, the restaurant's service makes up for it, but it would be better if it were easier to find.
10. Massawa
One of the few Eritrean restaurants in NYC

The service at this establishment is generally described as friendly, polite, and prompt. However, some reviewers have reported experiencing slow service on occasion.
11. DÙNDÚ

The greens and grains combination, including jollof rice and good greens, comes with stewed goat and two sides. This meal is delicious and allows for a satisfying yet not overwhelming portion size. The service is commendable, with staff who are both friendly and attentive.
For those looking for a midday meal in midtown, this food option is highly recommended. The staff's friendly demeanor and the love put into cooking the food make for an enjoyable dining experience. The quality of the food and the atmosphere are sure to leave a positive impression.
12. Ponty Bistro
A taste of Europe in the heart of Harlem.

Ponty Bistro is a Gramercy Park, New York restaurant known for its gourmet French and African cuisine. Open seven days a week, it offers a range of meal options from breakfast through late night, all at affordable prices. With a menu that features Senegalese dishes blending African and French flavors, Ponty Bistro has built a reputation for culinary excellence over its six and a half years in business.
Ponty Bistro has earned a reputation as a top-quality dining destination, known for its five-star meals and welcoming atmosphere. Its fusion of African and French culinary traditions is particularly noteworthy, with Senegalese dishes drawing praise for their unique blend of flavors and textures. Diners seeking a memorable meal at a reasonable price should consider adding Ponty Bistro to their list of must-visit restaurants.
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13. B & B
Great option for solo travelers

This restaurant is a small, unassuming spot with bright lights and a limited number of tables. Despite its simplicity, it stands out due to its West African cuisine. The food is served in a cafeteria-style setup, allowing customers to choose from a variety of hot and cold options.
The menu includes delicious and authentic dishes such as jerk chicken, stewed meat, and broken rice or spaghetti. In addition to these hot options, there is also a fresh kale salad available. Everything is made with fresh ingredients, ensuring that each dish is full of flavor.
14. Lagos TSQ
24/7 fitness center and accessible rooftop

Lagos TSQ is a restaurant situated in a prime location in Times Square, offering a unique dining experience. It specializes in West-African Fusion cuisine, allowing guests to experience the flavors of Nigeria while situated in the heart of New York City. The restaurant's service is widely praised, with the hostess and servers noted for their kindness and attentiveness, contributing to a positive dining experience.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Lagos Restaurant and Lounge, where global culture converges, and the heartbeat of Nigeria pulsates throughout. This New York City restaurant is not just a place to eat but also a destination to experience the energetic and lively culture of West Africa. Whether you're a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for a unique dining experience, Lagos TSQ is the perfect spot.
15. Fouta Halal
Offers a unique dining experience with a variety of dishes from different cultures

Fouta Halal is a dining establishment known for its signature dish of perfectly cooked lamb shanks in a magical hot sauce. However, opinions on the food vary, with some guests finding the grilled chicken and lamb to be dry and tasteless, and even the fries falling short of their expectations. On the other hand, the Senegalese food offerings have been highly praised for their huge portions and delicious flavors.
According to guests, the waitstaff at Fouta Halal excel at preparing fried fish, African lamb, and filet américain, along with serving great juice. The establishment offers food delivery, which is a popular feature among patrons. Many guests have noted the professionalism of the staff, and the excellent service is often cited as a highlight of their dining experience. Overall, Fouta Halal is known for offering delicious meals at affordable prices, making it a popular spot for many.
16. Accra
A city that perfectly blends modernity and tradition

During my third dining experience at this establishment, I have mixed feelings to share. My initial order of jollof rice with fish was disappointing, as the taste did not meet my expectations. However, my subsequent orders of okra soup with plantain fufu were incredibly satisfying. The food was hot, fresh, and bursting with flavor, making for an enjoyable meal.
Unfortunately, my experience was tarnished by several issues. First, I observed an employee who did not follow proper hygiene protocols, which affected my confidence in the food's cleanliness. Additionally, I noticed that the food was served very slowly, which was frustrating. Lastly, I was disappointed to find that my food was sometimes cold, which negatively impacted my overall dining experience.