Africa is experiencing a culinary renaissance, with traditional flavors and contemporary fusion combined with award winning expertise and beautiful venues. If you find yourself in Angola, Chad or Gabon for either business or pleasure, make a beeline for one of their high-end, high-quality establishments. We explore 10 of the very best fine-dining establishments in West Africa.
Located within the luxuriant Kempenski Hotel, Tibesti is one of Chad’s most dining elegant establishments. The selection of dishes on the constantly evolving menu are both freshly prepared and incredibly diverse, the staff are consistently polite and attentive, and the decor is second to none. A fantastic way to begin your day in Chad is to browse the comprehensive Tibesti breakfast buffet, watching fresh eggs being whisked into omelets directly in front of you before enjoying the repast on the rooftop, overlooking the beautiful pool and garden complex. If stopping by for an indulgent, à la carte evening experience, begin with smoked salmon with homemade pesto on lightly toasted brown bread before progressing to an authentic, delicately spiced lamb tagine with fresh vegetables and fluffy couscous.
Tibesti, Kempenski Hotel, Quartier Diguel Est, N’Djamena B.P, Chad +235 2253 1253
Proudly boasting the ‘best view of the bay of Luanda’ and the ‘best cakes in the region’, Cais de Quatro promises delicious food in a fantastic location. With a balcony overlooking the lapping turquoise waters and a menu offering everything from Mexican-inspired dishes to traditional Italian fare and Japanese favorites, Cais de Quatro caters for even the most discerning diner. The interior decor is defined by the stylish bar, highlighted by floor to ceiling windows allowing glimpses of the beautiful panorama. Enjoy a fresh caprese salad before sampling the succulent, decadent beef Carpaccio.
Cais de Quatro, Ilha do Cabo, Luanda, Angola, +244 924 570 620
With wide oak-paneled flooring, a picturesque roof terrace and a selection of local art adorning the walls, L’Odika provides a sophisticated backdrop promising authentic Gabon dining. Bang in the center of the buzzing Louis nightlife district, L’Odika serves high quality food that is a credit to the region. Enjoy fresh langoustines and rich cod dishes whilst watching your next course being lovingly prepared by a team of talented chefs and kitchen staff in the open plan kitchen. If looking for something a little more substantial, opt for a lightly steamed lobster with a choice of delicate side dishes or a vibrant paella with generous wedges of lemon. The unique of African cuisine accented with French notes is what really makes L’Odika stand out from the crowd – the perfect spot to while away the night.
L’Odika, Montee de Louis, Libreville, Gabon +241 1 73 69 20
This chic establishment is owned by successful hospitality group Mayena. Having opened its doors in March 2015, OVIMA is relatively new to the Libreville fine dinning scene but is rapidly establishing itself as a must-visit destination for lovers of fine food and sophisticated dinning. Gabonese gastronomy has center stage here and guests can expect to see classic ingredients revisited and traditional dishes with a modern twist. Try the chicken nyembwé from the Kango region, or for those more adventurous, try the sautéd porcupine Woleu Ntem-style. To finish, do not miss their signature banana and chocolate Charlotte, as beautiful as it is delicious.
OVIMA by Mayena, Guégué Bridge, Libreville, Gabon +241 07 04 89 89