Cross River, especially Calabar, has some seriously tasty food spots that mix local tastes with spices from all over. Whether you’re a hard-core foodie hunting down real Nigerian cooking, someone who likes to try eats from everywhere, or just need a nice place with good food, Cross River has it.
Calabar has everything from fancy places to chill hangouts, so you’re bound to find something that fits your wallet and what you’re hungry for. Lots of these places care about what you can and can’t eat, you’ll find options for those who are vegan or just want some familiar comfort food.
5 Best Restaurants in Cross River
1. The Slessor Restaurant
2. Terry’s Kitchen
3. The Home Restaurant and Lounge
4. Native Delicacies Restaurant Calabar
5. Chef Zhanga Foods
Best Restaurants in Cross River
Here’s a list of popular Restaurants in Cross River that should fill your desires and have you coming back for more.
1. The Slessor Restaurant
Slessor Restaurant is a pretty well-known, nice restaurant in Calabar. You can find it in Big Qua Town, and it’s a cool place if you want to chow down on both Nigerian and other stuff from around the world. They’ve got a big menu, like African stews and Chinese food, so there are lots of different flavors to try. And they get their stuff fresh from around here, which makes the food even tastier.
One of the things that makes Slessor special is how nice they are. The personnel working there are very friendly, and they treat you well. They have a big space where you can eat inside with the AC or outside if you want to enjoy the weather.
Slessor is relaxed enough to be laid-back but elegant enough to pull it off with your family or just you out having dinner with that someone special. It’s the best option for those always looking.
Location: 10 Murtala Mohammed Highway, Big Qua Town, Calabar, Cross River.
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday from 6:30 am-9:30 pm
Budget: 3000+ per person
2. Terry’s Kitchen
If you want original Nigerian flavors to be prepared for you, Terry’s Kitchen is the name that rings a bell every time. They deal in catering events, so whether it is a wedding, party, or even a simple get-together, they’ve got you covered. Based in Calabar, Terry’s is a name we hear at home when it comes to finger-licking Nigerian foods, and every dish is taken care of.
Terry’s Kitchen stands out because they’re professionals, and they keep everything spotlessly clean. They serve all kinds of tasty Nigerian dishes, cakes, and small chops with a smile. What you prefer is what you get– small or large amounts of food, Terry’s Kitchen knows just how to cater for you. They don’t just run deliveries, they run quick ones, so that you can enjoy your food warm and appetizing wherever you are. It’s all casual here, the perfect culinary destination to enjoy a casual lunch or evening supper.
If you like decent Nigerian home cooking, Terry’s Kitchen is a safe bet. If you live here or are visiting, it is a good option to get authentic food from the area.
Location: 75 Atamunu Str., Abua, Calabar, Cross River.
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday: from 8 am-10 pm
Sunday from 6–10 pm
Budget: 3000+ per person
3. The Home Restaurant and Lounge
If you’re looking for home food only with a touch of class, give The Home Restaurant and Lounge a try. It’s a restaurant renowned for its casual setting and variety of food options. They offer healthy options and all those comfort foods you were fed as a kid. If you’re a vegetarian, no qualms, vegetarian dishes are also served; therefore, everybody can find something they like here because they cater to all. It provides an aura that gives you nothing but comfort and style as you enjoy your casual meal and
That cozy candlelit dinner.
Now to the drinks– it’s a long and diverse menu that includes wine, cocktails, and tea, among others. All you have to do is relax and listen to live music or watch your favourite sports team while eating a meal.
Location: 75 Ndidem Usang Iso Rd, Big Qua Town, Calabar, Cross River.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Budget: 2,000- 4,000 per person
4. Native Delicacies Restaurant Calabar
For real African flavors, Native Delicacies Restaurant in Calabar is worth a visit. They also have traditional Nigerian food to eat, with rice meals and stews that have a home taste. It’s a quiet place and the staff is great, and is a good place to go for a quiet evening with your friends or relatives.
Something that makes Native Delicacies stand out is that you can sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere. The menu is full of Nigerian favorites and new takes on old dishes. They’ve got quick meals and bigger meals with lots of courses, so you’ll find something that makes you happy. Whether you want to sit inside or outside, Native Delicacies works for any event. Native Delicacies Restaurant captures what Nigerian cooking is about, you should give it a try.
Location: 118 Murtala Mohammed Highway, Ikot Ekan Eden, Calabar, Cross River.
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday: from 8 am-10 pm
Budget: 2,000– 4,000 per person
5. Chef Zhanga Foods
Chef Zhanga Foods, which you can come across on Murtala Mohammed Highway in Calabar, is like heaven for people who like to eat. What they do is take old-school recipes and fix them up to take the flavor up a notch. From smoked catfish and BBQ fish to jollof rice, the menu is a roll call of things you will start licking your lips for.
The most unique thing about Chef Zhanga is their focus on healthy meals, and this has made the restaurant stand out among others. With African-style fish and chips and smoked foods, the place brings a new approach to eating in Calabar. If you want a more private night out, Chef Zhanga Foods lets you eat there or get delivery. The ingredients and different recipes make it a spot any hard-core foodie would want to check out.
Location: No 1 ACB Rd, Federal Housing Estate, Ikot Ansa, Calabar, Cross River.
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday from 10 am–11 pm
Wednesday: from 10 am– 9:30 pm
Sunday from 11 am– 10 pm
Budget: 5,000+ per person
Conclusion
To sum it up, Cross River has a food scene with a lot of different options, and these five restaurants show you some of the best. Whether you want old school staples or some new twists, there’s a restaurant in Calabar where you will discover something you like. From the upscale vibes at The Home Restaurant and Lounge to crazy meals at Chef Zhanga Foods, everything on this list is a winner that combines tasty food with service that treats you right. The next time you are in Cross River, do yourself a favor and eat at any of these restaurants—you’ll leave happy.
