There are restaurants, and then there’s 805.
805 restaurants give you the vibe of a homemade Nigerian meal in an awe-inspiring environment. This is a restaurant that does not just serve food, it serves an experience of food, family, celebration, and culture. Whether you are dining alone or gathering with friends and family, the ambiance strikes with the perfect balance between casual and upscale.
And then, if you’ve ever found yourself waging that internal battle about needing to eat out but still wishing you could feel like you’re home, 805 settles that debate for you. The spice of your food, the familiar smells of cooking in the kitchen, and the thoughtfulness in the style of plating, which is still true to the source of food– it all takes you to your childhood home. Then there is the music playing softly, the wine by the glass, the attentive waiting staff, and the light decor, which serves as a reminder that this is a quality restaurant.
A Brief History
805 Restaurant Abuja is a home for food lovers. It specializes in West African cultural cuisine, paired with fine dining, which is hard to see. Established in 2001 by Sir Frederick and Lady Damaris James, this family-run business has remained committed to showcasing authentic Nigerian food, using local produce and traditional cooking methods, ever since. It remains a favourite among locals and visitors because of its commitment to quality and offering hospitality.
The restaurant’s name comes from where it sprang from– No 805, Old Kent Road, Elephant and Castle, a modest space in London. 805 Restaurants has grown out of London and developed its brand experience. It has also grown into locations like Abuja and Accra, and still exhibits the warm hospitality that it prides itself on. There’s something to satisfy everyone’s cravings, whether you are desperately hungry for a meal, just looking for a simple brunch, or even cocktails with live music for an evening.
A Food Journey across West Africa.
At the center of dining at 805 Restaurants Abuja is a menu that celebrates the rich gastronomic heritage of West African cuisine. Although there are lots of dishes available on 805’s menu, the jollof rice, which many often remember, and the Egusi soup and Monika fish, two dishes with more casual significance, are incredibly well crafted.
805’s jollof rice is smoky, rich, and incredibly balanced—it is never oily or dry. The rice is full of taste in every grain you take. And best of all? You can pair it with grilled chicken, fried plantain, goat meat, or even their asun pepper, each bite creating a symphony of taste.
Their amala and ewedu are the best. The amala is smooth, soft, and not too sticky, with enough substance to serve as a good base for the soup. The ewedu is fresh and properly seasoned, so you have that mouth-coating richness that’s exciting and reassuring. If amala does not take your fancy, then the pounded yam is also excellent, stretchy, airy, and filling.
805 Suya is not your street vendor kind, although there is nothing bad about the easy street fix. But what you get here is quality. Aromatic spices are done to perfection and served with the spicy pepper mixture and onions. It’s a good appetizer or friendly sharing platter while waiting for the main course.
The 805 chefs are passionate about upholding the originality of traditional recipes as well as imparting them with contemporary style.
Some of the appetizers included on the restaurant’s ever-evolving menu consist of pepper soup with assorted meats, spicy chicken wings, and, of course, suya—grilled skewered spicy meats. Possible centre-pieces of the meal are coconut rice with grilled fish, pounded yam served with assorted soups, and the signature Monika fish, which is an entire fish (croaker or tilapia) grilled and served with chili sauce. For those who prefer lighter meals, 805 provides salads and vegetarian menus to suit all.
805 offers a variety of dietary needs, including halal and vegan options by request.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
From an ambience point of view, 805 Restaurants Abuja has a nice balance of modern sophistication and warmth. The modern space, with its authentic African decor, has a traditional design with modern hospitality, creating a warm, stylish setting. Soft-lighting, soft furnishing, and warm service contribute to the relaxed yet premium dining experience that is attributed to 805 Restaurants Abuja.
805 has designed a space that is suitable for any personal preference in dining experience, whether it is a private dinner, group dining, or a private event. A celebratory occasion or a casual dinner with friends, 805 provides a venue to enhance the experience.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Besides its cuisine, 805 Restaurants Abuja is a vibrant social establishment. The restaurant has regular events and themed evenings that bring a sense of community among the populace. Live music performances, cultural performances, and festive events are just some of the activities that bring people together in 805.
The restaurant’s hospitality is rivalled only by its commitment to its staff, who are well-trained to provide personalized service that makes clients feel at home. Their commitment to providing a sense of home has earned 805 its regular customers and a reputation for greatness among Abuja’s nightlife.
As time passes, 805 Restaurants Abuja transforms into an evening spot. Depending on your time and schedule considerations, the rooftop lounge space has breathtaking views overlooking the city. It is the best location to attend night parties. They can enjoy perfectly blended cocktails, numerous wines and spirits, and other soft beverages.
The DJ performs live music that caters to diverse musical preferences. From Afrobeat’s rhythms to jazz and modern music, the entertainment schedule promises a great night out for all. The great food, drinks, and music make 805 a favorite hotspot for a lively but classy night out.
Accessibility and Amenities
805 Restaurants Abuja is convenient and accessible for all customers to sit back, enjoy their meal, and relax. The restaurant also offers different service styles to meet a variety of tastes, to fit into all customers’ schedules with dine-in, take-out, and delivery service.
For planners of events or special occasions, 805 has private dining areas and catering facilities. The team collaborates with clients to design tailored menus and arrangements for an event so that each event is crafted based on individual needs and expectations.
Community Engagement and Legacy
Since its establishment, the restaurant has remained committed to doing more than merely feeding people, it’s about building family. As a family-owned company, the restaurant builds into its customer care, welcoming returning customers as part of the extended family. This has generated a sense of belonging among patrons and assisted the restaurant in surviving.
In addition, 805 Restaurants’ legacy is seen in its commitment to preserving and promoting West African food culture. The restaurant serves traditional West African food that has been prepared with love and a respect for heritage to continue those traditions into future generations.
Location: 93 Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.
Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday from 8 am–11 pm
Sunday: 12– 11 pm
Budget: From 5,000+ per person
Conclusion
805 Restaurants Abuja is a first-class dining experience that delivers more than a meal or a meeting, it delivers an experience. 805 Restaurants is more than ready to offer you authentic West African cuisine, a friendly atmosphere, nightlife, enjoyable people, and multiple points of excellence.
If you’re a resident of Abuja or someone visiting, you should try out 805 Restaurants Abuja. You never know, it might turn out to be that exciting and enriching experience you never knew you needed.
