The Lagos culinary scene delivered a standout moment on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, when Rococo Restaurant, Victoria Island, hosted the Awari Restaurant Week Awards—a prestigious annual celebration honoring the most innovative voices in Lagos and Abuja dining.
From chefs and restaurateurs to devoted food lovers, the ceremony acknowledged service excellence, inventive menus, and customer engagement, forming a cultural snapshot of the region’s fast-evolving food landscape.
A Tradition of Culinary Innovation
Now in its 11th edition, Restaurant Week has expanded dramatically since its early origins as “Lost in Lagos,” a small, city-focused dining guide. Today, under the name Awari, it has evolved into a full-scale platform spotlighting West Africa’s growing food tourism ecosystem.
Founder Tannaz Bahnam described the awards as a tribute to the “creativity and commitment driving Lagos and Abuja’s vibrant culinary culture.” Her remarks echoed the platform’s mission: elevating local kitchens, amplifying food entrepreneurs, and nurturing a community that thrives on shared dining experiences.
2025 Award Highlights
This year’s three-week showcase featured 82 restaurants, each pushing new boundaries in flavor, storytelling, and guest experience. Some establishments stood out as category leaders:
Award Winners
- Mr. Panther – Best in Service Award
- Mr. Panther – People’s Choice Award
- Z Kitchen – Best ARW Menu
- Lalas Bistro – Top Performing Restaurant of the Year
These recognitions underscore the competitive, ever-evolving nature of the Nigerian culinary industry, where consistency, hospitality, and originality continue to set the benchmark.
A Boost for Food Tourism and Local Dining Culture
Beyond the awards, the evening highlighted the rising influence of food tourism in Nigeria. With Lagos and Abuja gaining international visibility, dining establishments increasingly serve as ambassadors of local culture and lifestyle.
Bahnam emphasized that Awari’s mission extends beyond celebration—it’s about supporting local businesses, strengthening industry relationships, and showcasing a region rich with culinary diversity. The 2025 edition reaffirmed how new restaurants continue to emerge while established names redefine what modern African dining can look like.
what people are asking?
“What is Awari Restaurant Week Awards?”
Awari Restaurant Week Awards is an annual food event that honors outstanding restaurants, chefs, and dining experiences in Lagos and Abuja.
“Which restaurants won awards at the 2025 Awari Restaurant Week?”
Winners include Mr. Panther (Best in Service & People’s Choice), Z Kitchen (Best ARW Menu), and Lalas Bistro (Top Performing Restaurant).
“Where was the 2025 Awari Awards held?”
The 2025 edition took place at Rococo Restaurant in Victoria Island, Lagos.
“How many restaurants participated in the 2025 Awari event?”
A total of 82 restaurants participated in the three-week showcase.
Key Takeaways
- Awari Restaurant Week Awards continues to elevate the culinary sector.
- 82 restaurants competed across Lagos and Abuja.
- Top winners included Mr. Panther, Z Kitchen, and Lalas Bistro.
- The platform strengthens food tourism and celebrates regional innovation.
Short Summary
The 2025 Awari Restaurant Week Awards celebrated the best of Lagos and Abuja dining, honoring standout restaurants and highlighting the region’s growing food tourism culture.
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Victoria Island
Restaurant Week
Nigerian Food Tourism
Awari Awards