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Check Out 22 Most Romantic Restaurants Perfect for a Date in Lagos

Published

8 years ago

April 7, 2017

Be it a first date, a brunch with your steady or dinner with your ex, you will find a suitable spot on our list of Lagos’ most romantic restaurants.

Despite the economic environment in Nigeria, there is a new restaurant springing up in Lagos as you read this – no, two, or three. With the proliferation of options, we are here to help you pick out the Best Restaurants in Lagos based on ambience and quality of food to have that special romantic date.

Amazing views, lush food, music, dim lights? Whichever makes a space romantic for you, you’ll find your match. Be it a first date at a bar, a brunch date with your steady, a dinner with your ex or the perfect spot to pull out that ring, somewhere on this list would do good to crank up the romance.

Chances are most of these spots are pricey, but you were already planning to go all out, right? Most of the 8 restaurants located in Eko Hotel and Suites

So here are the 22 most romantic restaurants in Lagos:

1. Tarragon by Culinary Academy
Recently opened Tarragon is a welcome addition to the fine dining scene in Lagos. Tarragon is exactly what you would expect from Tiyan Alile, who honed her skills at the internationally acclaimed L’Academie de Cuisine and later founded the Culinary Academy in Lagos. The whole dining experience here is exquisite and will leave a lasting impression on your date. The uber-delicious dessert menu will keep you coming back (if you can afford to). An additional idea could be to take a cooking class with your date at the academy just upstairs – get that bonding session on!

2. Metisse

Metisse is one of those pan-Asian restaurants you keeping wanting to go and just never get around to. That’s because it is co-located the famous Café Royale and Chocolat Royal on Etim-Inyang Crescent. Even though the space is small, it is often empty and provides that cozy setup desired for a romantic date.

3. Sky Restaurant & Lounge, Eko Hotel

Sky Restaurant located in the penthouse of Eko Hotel has the best view of the Atlantic Ocean and Eko Atlantic in Lagos. Seriously it doesn’t get better than this. Making it a prime spot for popping the question (please find another proposal location). Whilst the decor is a somewhat dated and traditional, everything else makes up for it. From the scenic view to the amazing food and impeccable service, everything is notably top notch. Make sure you pick a table by the window.

4. Primi Piatti

Want to impress your date with something different? Then you should definitely give Primi Piatti in Lekki a try. The combination of the sexy Italian food with a scenic waterfront is winner and guaranteed to get you some brownie points. If the weather permits, definitely grab a seat outside.

5. RSVP Lagos

Avid readers of this blog know how much we love RSVP Lagos. The innovative menu (which includes an addictive cocktail list) at RSVP matched by excellent consistent service keeps us coming back here. It’s a great location to have dinner, then dance the night away with your date poolside if all goes as planned.

6. Orchid Bistro

Tucked away in Ikeja GRA, Orchid Bistro is another cozy restaurant and the perfect getaway from Lagos hustle. The food is excellent here and the waiters know to appear when needed. And if you’re feeling outdoorsy, there’s a gorgeous garden full of tulips to express your perfect love. OK, maybe not on the first or second date – something to look forward to.

7. Izanagi

If your date is into Japanese food or loves sushi, Izanagi is a great choice. Led by Chef Emiliano Duenas, who was poached from his 10-year sushi gig in Lebanon, you’re in good company. Weekends can be hectic and space is limited, plan accordingly.

8. The Grillroom

If a place has an amazing art collection, extensive wine list and great seafood, it’s probably a place you want to be for a romantic date. The Grillroom scores well on all of them. After dinner, step into the pool terrace and watch the stars.

9. Nok by Alara

Everyone who’s been to Nok by Alara has been wowed. From the main Alara store to Nok, this space is all art – and yes, down to the food! This is a fine dining experience – naija style – portions are tiny and pricey. However, it’s worth it to see the culinary innovations being done to Nigerian and African cuisines by Chef Pierre Thiam. You might actually spend the whole time talking about the menu. Ambience is up there, with the detailed décor and lit-up garden bar which should get all your senses excited.

10. Crossroads

Normally Bottles would be the recommended destination for Quality Mexican food in Lagos. Switch it up one gear and go with Crossroads, the Mexican restaurant in Eko Hotel. I know what you’re thinking, yet another restaurant in Eko Hotel. But it’s very tastefully furnished and the lounge & bar offers way more privacy than the main restaurant. Understandably, the margaritas served here are on fire (like hot!) and the food is actually good.

11. The Uptown Restaurant

Uptown is another great place to get panoramic scenic views of Victoria Island. It has a classy interior and a sushi bar combined with all that natural light streaming in those wide wide windows, Uptown could easily become your favourite date night spot.

12. Talindo Steak House

This moody Karim Kotun spot is known for their awesome steak. This establishment has been around for a long time, so you’ll get classic decor and the old school charm. It’s a tad formal, so it would be a nice place to dress up to for a quiet dinner date.

13. La Taverna Milano

La Taverna is great place to break bread together and share the tapas love. If you are meeting for first time, you can quickly figure out what kind of person you are dealing with in terms of food sharing – this is important stuff! If the tapas thing is not working, don’t be afraid to switch to pizza. La Taverna serves the best pizza in Lagos – go get cheesy with some cheesy pizza. The restaurant also has a great selection of Italian and Chilean wines and often have a live band on set to tantalize.

14. Craft Gourmet by Lou Baker

Nothing more love-inducing than a warm, cosy cafe with so much natural light and good-looking waiters and snazzy decor? Maybe there is, but while you’re in Craft Gourmet, you won’t remember it. Housed in Mega Plaza, this gorgeous casual space would be perfect for a any type of date!

15. Arabesque

Arabesque is a restaurant that brings you a slice of the Middle East with the most gorgeous outdoor seating. The food is fresh and the presentation authentic and excellent. Arabesque is also known for its super cocktails that’ll knock some love into you.

16. Samantha’s Bistro & Grill

Here’s the spot to go for a nice Saturday brunch date before you hit the town. The food is amazing – the ham & cheese brioche comes very highly recommended. The decor is adorable and is perfect for an easy breezy but intimate date.

17. Insignia

Wines, Pasta, Pizza with all the Italian charm! Insignia is perfect for a date night; an extensive menu combined with those dim mood lights and the cosy nooks with plush chairs should send your date’s her a-flush with romance. Come with someone who is big fan of Italian food and Insignia is an awesome bet.

18. Villa Medici

Villa Medici is an elegant fine-dining restaurant that has managed to reinvent itself twice in the past decade. It’s classy decor and intimate spaces would be perfect backdrop for a proposal. There is a gorgeous garden that leads into the building and then the most beautiful bar welcomes you. Food is excellent – the lobster and prawns are highest recommended.

19. Surface Bar & Grill

Friday night with your partner, drinks, chips and a stunning view of the Lagoon. This would be a great spot to pass a few hours before a long night of dancing. Go for the cocktail menu, stay for the atmospheric view. There’s live music playing on Sunday nights too, it’s usually a pretty sight with the blue LED of the Radisson reflecting on the waterfront.

20. RED Chinese Restaurant

This restaurant also in Eko Hotel has an amazing view and is one of the best Chinese restaurants in Lagos. The tasteful decor, impressive view of the ocean and of course authentic Chinese sounds like a great combination for romantic evening.

21. Vineyard Restaurant & Hollywood Bar

This used to be exclusive for members only but lucky you, it’s now open to the general public. That’s still not common knowledge. The Restaurant is beautifully decorated – exuding character in its understated elegance whilst you enjoy a culinary experience designed to relax your body and soul. After dinner, you can take a long walk around the gorgeous grounds and enjoy the soothing artificial waterfalls.

22. Casper & Gambini’s

Casper & Gambini’s took over the space previously occupied by Cafe Vanessa, an old favorite which closed in 2015. They have done a great job with the space – both on the outside and in with the dark woods and bricks. There is something for everyone on the extensive menu at Casper & Gambini’s. This rustic place might be more suited to a casual weekday lunch date as it gets a tad crowded at night and weekends (obviously depends on your date).

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5 Health Benefits Of Drinking Warm Water Early In The Morning

Published

5 days ago

November 16, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Drinking Warm Water In The Morning: See Health Benefits | fab.ng

Drinking warm water early in the morning has gained popularity for its numerous health benefits. This simple habit can transform your wellness routine, boost your overall health, and promote a positive start to your day.

If you’re looking for a natural and effective way to improve your body and mind, consider starting your day with a glass of warm water.

This article will explore five key benefits of this daily practice.

1. Enhances Digestion

One of the primary benefits of drinking warm water in the morning is its positive effect on digestion. The warmth helps to stimulate your digestive tract, making it easier for food to pass through smoothly.

Aids in breaking down food: Warm water helps dissolve and break down food particles more efficiently, easing the workload of your digestive organs, especially the stomach.
Relieves constipation: Drinking warm water on an empty stomach can soften hardened stools and stimulate bowel movements, helping relieve constipation.
Flushes out toxins: By increasing blood circulation, warm water can assist in removing waste and toxins from your system. This cleansing process can prevent bloating and discomfort.

Starting your day with warm water ensures your digestive system is ready to take on meals throughout the day.

2. Promotes Weight Loss

If you’re looking to lose weight naturally, drinking warm water in the morning could be a simple and effective method. This habit can boost your metabolism, which is essential for burning calories.

Increases metabolic rate: Warm water raises your body temperature slightly, which prompts your metabolism to speed up. This means you’ll burn calories more efficiently throughout the day.
Reduces appetite: Drinking a glass of warm water before eating can help curb your appetite. It creates a feeling of fullness, which may prevent overeating.
Breaks down fat deposits: Warm water helps break down fat deposits in your body, making it easier to shed unwanted weight. It also assists the kidneys in functioning more effectively, which can help reduce water retention.

Combining warm water with a healthy diet and exercise can accelerate your weight loss journey.

3. Improves Blood Circulation

Good blood circulation is vital for delivering oxygen and nutrients to every part of your body. Drinking warm water helps enhance blood flow, which supports overall health and vitality.

Relaxes blood vessels: The heat from warm water can dilate your blood vessels, making it easier for blood to circulate freely. This reduces the strain on your heart and can lower blood pressure.
Prevents blood clotting: Warm water can help reduce the risk of blood clots by keeping your blood in a thinner, more fluid state. This can be especially beneficial for people with circulation problems.
Supports muscle and joint health: Improved blood circulation can help relax tight muscles and relieve joint pain, making it ideal for those with arthritis or muscle soreness.

This increased blood flow can also help your skin glow, giving you a healthier, more youthful appearance.

4. Supports Detoxification

Your body accumulates toxins from food, the environment, and stress. Drinking warm water in the morning can help flush these toxins out, promoting better organ function and overall health.

Boosts kidney function: Warm water supports your kidneys’ filtering process, making it easier for them to remove waste. Proper hydration can prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
Stimulates sweating: The heat from warm water can raise your core body temperature slightly, encouraging sweating. Sweating is a natural way for your body to expel toxins through your skin.
Improves liver function: A glass of warm water can stimulate the liver to produce bile, which aids in digesting fats and eliminating toxins. This keeps your liver functioning optimally.

Regular detoxification helps you feel more energetic, reduces fatigue, and can even improve your mental clarity.

5. Relieves Nasal Congestion and Sore Throat

If you suffer from allergies, colds, or respiratory issues, warm water can be a soothing remedy. It helps clear your nasal passages and provides relief from sore throats.

Loosens mucus: Warm water helps dissolve mucus, making it easier to expel through coughing or sneezing. This can provide relief from nasal congestion, especially during flu season.
Soothes irritated throat: Warm water can soothe an irritated or scratchy throat, often caused by dryness or infection. It can also help prevent throat irritation, especially for people who wake up with a dry throat.
Reduces inflammation: The warmth can calm inflamed tissues, reducing swelling and discomfort in the respiratory tract. This is especially beneficial for people with asthma or chronic bronchitis.

By starting your day with warm water, you can breathe more easily and reduce the discomfort associated with seasonal allergies or colds.

How to Maximize the Benefits of Drinking Warm Water in the Morning

Now that you understand the benefits, here’s how you can make the most of this simple practice:

1. Drink it on an empty stomach: To achieve optimal results, drink warm water first thing in the morning before consuming any food or drinks.

2. Add lemon or honey: For an extra health boost, add a slice of lemon or a teaspoon of honey. Lemon provides vitamin C and antioxidants, while honey has antibacterial properties.

3. Avoid boiling water: The water should be warm, not boiling, to avoid burning your mouth or oesophagus. Aim for a comfortable, soothing temperature.

4. Be consistent: Consistency is key to reaping long-term benefits. Make it a habit to drink warm water every morning for a few weeks to see noticeable improvements.

Drinking warm water in the morning is a simple, effective, and natural way to enhance your health. It promotes digestion, aids in weight loss, improves circulation, supports detoxification, and relieves nasal congestion.

By adopting this practice, you can kickstart your day on a healthy note and enjoy better physical and mental well-being. Why not give it a try tomorrow morning? Your body will thank you!

Visit here for more healthy tips.

DRINKS

Ever Tasted Sweet Plum Juice? Here’s How To Brew One!

Published

2 weeks ago

November 10, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Plum juice is a delightful beverage packed with antioxidants and vitamins. The juice combines both a refreshing taste and exceptional nutritional benefits. It’s a perfect drink to quench your thirst, especially during hot summer days.

Here’s a simple guide on how to brew this refreshing drink.

Ingredients for Brewing Plum Juice

Ripe plums
Water
Sugar (optional, for sweetness)
Lemon juice (optional, for tanginess)

Equipment:

Large pot
Strainer
Juicer (optional)
Glass jars or bottles

Instructions:

1. Prepare the plums:

Wash the plums thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Cut the plums into halves and remove the pits.

2. Boil the plums:

In a large pot, add the prepared plums and water.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
Reduce heat and let the plums simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they become soft and the juice is released.

3. Strain the juice:

Once the plums are soft, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the pulp and seeds.

4. Sweeten and flavour (optional):

If you prefer a sweeter juice, add sugar to taste.
For a tangy flavour, add a squeeze of lemon juice.

5. Bottle the juice:

Pour the juice into clean, sterilized glass jars or bottles.
Seal the containers tightly and store them in the refrigerator.

Tips for the Best Plum Juice

Choose ripe plums: Ripe plums are sweeter and juicier, resulting in a more flavorful juice.
Adjust sweetness and tartness: Taste the juice before bottling and adjust the sweetness and tartness to your preference.
Store properly: Store the juice in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
Use a juicer: For a faster and more efficient process, use a juicer to extract the juice from the plums.

Can I freeze plum juice?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze plum juice to extend its shelf life and enjoy it long after the fresh fruit season has passed. Freezing plum juice is a practical and convenient way to savour its flavour year-round.

When freezing plum juice, be sure to use high-quality, freezer-safe containers to prevent leakage and freezer burn. Glass mason jars or BPA-free plastic containers work excellently for this purpose.

Remember to leave about 1 inch of headspace at the top of each container to allow for the natural expansion that occurs as the juice freezes. This extra space prevents the containers from cracking or bursting in the freezer.

For optimal quality and freshness, try to minimize the amount of air exposure in the containers before sealing them tightly. You can achieve this by using a ladle to carefully pour the juice, leaving as little headspace as possible.

Alternatively, you can use a funnel to fill the containers, further reducing air pockets.

Plum Juice Recipe | fab.ng

How long does homemade plum juice last in the refrigerator?

Homemade plum juice, when stored in airtight containers and refrigerated, can typically last for 3-4 days. However, the exact shelf life can vary depending on some factors.

These factors include the freshness of the plums, the cleanliness of the storage containers, and the temperature of the refrigerator. To maximize the shelf life of your homemade plum juice, it’s important to:

Use fresh, ripe plums.
Clean and sanitize the jars or bottles you’ll use to store the juice to prevent bacterial growth.
Refrigerate promptly. Once the juice has cooled down, refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Keep the refrigerator temperature consistent to maintain the quality of the juice.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your delicious homemade plum juice for a longer period.

Can I use dried plums to make juice?

Absolutely, dried plums, commonly known as prunes, can be repurposed to create a delightful and nutritious juice. While fresh plums are the ideal choice for juicing, using dried plums is a viable alternative, especially when the fresh fruit is out of season or unavailable.

However, there’s an important step to consider when using dried plums for juice – the rehydration process. Dried plums have a significantly lower moisture content compared to their fresh counterparts, so they require a bit of preparation before being juiced.

Begin by soaking the dried plums in water for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, to allow them to regain their plumpness and soften.

This crucial step ensures the dried plums can be broken down effectively during the boiling process, extracting maximum flavour and nutrients into the resulting juice.

Once rehydrated, the dried plums can be treated the same as fresh plums in the juicing method, yielding a rich, concentrated elixir brimming with the sweet-tart taste of prunes.

With a bit of extra prep work, dried plums can be seamlessly incorporated into your homemade juice repertoire, providing a delicious and versatile option for year-round enjoyment.

What are the health benefits of plum juice?

Plum juice is a true elixir of health, packed with an impressive array of beneficial nutrients and compounds. At the heart of its wellness-boosting properties are the high levels of antioxidants.

This is particularly polyphenols, which help neutralize harmful free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress.

Beyond the antioxidant powerhouse, plum juice is also a rich source of essential vitamins, including vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function, skin health, and blood clotting, respectively.

Additionally, the juice contains minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium, all of which play crucial roles in maintaining cardiovascular health, regulating blood pressure, and facilitating proper digestion.

Regularly incorporating plum juice into your diet can yield tangible benefits for your overall well-being. The combination of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can help improve digestion.

This is done by promoting healthy gut function, boosting immunity to ward off common illnesses, and supporting cardiovascular health by lowering inflammation and cholesterol levels.

Truly, plum juice is a refreshing and restorative beverage that can be a valuable addition to any health-conscious lifestyle.

Can I use plum juice in cooking?

Yes, plum juice can be a versatile ingredient in your kitchen. Its unique sweet-tart flavour can elevate various dishes. You can use it to deglaze pans, create flavorful sauces for roasted meats, or add a fruity twist to marinades.

In baking, plum juice can be used to moisten cakes, add depth to frostings, or create unique glazes for pastries. Its natural sugars and acidity make it a great alternative to artificial flavourings and sweeteners.

You can enjoy the refreshing taste of homemade plum juice with those simple steps above. Experiment with different varieties of plums to discover your favourite flavour profile.

Did you learn the basic things you need to brew your homemade plum juice? Would you like to read more articles on drinks? Visit here.

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Here’s How You Can Brew Kombucha Tea In Nigeria

Published

3 weeks ago

November 3, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

How To Make Kombucha Tea In Nigeria | fab.ng

Kombucha tea, a fizzy fermented drink, has grown in popularity worldwide for its probiotic benefits and refreshing taste. While kombucha may not yet be widely popular in Nigeria, it is easy to make at home with a few ingredients.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making kombucha tea in Nigeria, along with some frequently asked questions about this healthy drink.

What is Kombucha Tea?

Kombucha is a fermented tea made with a blend of tea, sugar, and a live culture known as SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast). The SCOBY ferments the tea over some time, creating a unique beverage that is slightly sour, a bit sweet, and full of probiotics.

Kombucha contains beneficial bacteria, organic acids, and antioxidants, making it a popular choice for health enthusiasts.

Ingredients Needed to Make Kombucha Tea

To get started, gather these ingredients, which are often easy to find in Nigerian stores or markets.

Water – Filtered or distilled is best, but boiled tap water also works.
Sugar – White sugar is ideal as it’s easily fermented by the SCOBY.
Tea – Black tea is traditional, but green tea or a blend of both can be used.
SCOBY – You can purchase one online or from someone who makes kombucha.
Starter Liquid – This is usually a bit of already-made kombucha or vinegar.

Steps to Making Kombucha Tea

Step 1: Make Sweet Tea

Begin by making sweet tea. This will be the base for your kombucha.

1. Boil the Water: Boil about 4 cups of water and let it cool slightly.

2. Add Sugar: Dissolve one cup of sugar in the hot water. Stir well to make sure it dissolves completely.

3. Add Tea Bags: Add 4-5 tea bags or 2 tablespoons of loose tea. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes.

4. Cool the Tea: After steeping, remove the tea bags and let the tea cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

1. Pour the Tea into a Jar: Transfer the sweetened tea into a clean, large glass jar.

2. Add the SCOBY and Starter Liquid: Add the SCOBY and 1-2 cups of starter liquid (either previously brewed kombucha or distilled vinegar) to the jar. The starter liquid helps maintain the right pH for fermentation.

3. Cover the Jar: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to cover the jar and secure it with a rubber band. This keeps dust and insects out but allows air to flow.

Step 3: Fermentation Process

Place the jar in a warm, dark place to ferment. The ideal temperature for fermentation is between 24-30°C, so a shelf or cupboard in your kitchen should work well in most Nigerian homes.

1. Wait for Fermentation: Let the tea ferment for 7-10 days. Check after 5-7 days to see if it’s at the desired taste. The longer it ferments, the more acidic it will become.

2. Taste and Remove the SCOBY: After reaching the desired taste, remove the SCOBY and set it aside in a small jar with a bit of kombucha to keep it active for your next batch.

Step 4: Second Fermentation (Optional)

If you want a fizzy, flavoured kombucha, a second fermentation step is optional but recommended.

1. Add Flavorings: Pour the kombucha into individual bottles and add flavourings like ginger, fruit juice, or herbs. For example, pineapple, ginger, and hibiscus are popular in Nigeria.

2. Seal and Ferment Again: Seal the bottles tightly and let them sit at room temperature for 2-3 days to develop carbonation. Be sure to open the bottles carefully, as the pressure can build up.

Storing and Serving Kombucha Tea

Once fermented, store kombucha in the fridge to slow down further fermentation. Serve it cold and enjoy its refreshing taste.

Here are three popular questions people often ask on Google about kombucha.

Can I use different types of tea to make Kombucha?

Yes, you can use various tea types like green, oolong, or white tea. However, black tea is traditionally preferred because the SCOBY thrives on its richness.

Experimenting with tea blends can result in unique flavours, but avoid herbal teas without true tea leaves as they lack the necessary nutrients for fermentation.

How do I get a SCOBY in Nigeria?

Finding a SCOBY may seem challenging, but there are several options. You can purchase a SCOBY from online marketplaces or locate local kombucha makers willing to share one. Some health stores may also carry SCOBYs.

Alternatively, you can grow your own SCOBY by leaving store-bought kombucha in a warm place for a few days until it thickens.

What are the health benefits of Kombucha?

Kombucha offers several health benefits due to its probiotic content. It can aid digestion, support immune health, and provide antioxidants. Many believe kombucha can also boost energy levels thanks to its B vitamins and natural organic acids.

However, kombucha is not a cure-all, so it’s best to consume it as part of a balanced diet.

Tips for Success in Making Kombucha

Maintain Cleanliness: To prevent contamination, ensure all your equipment is clean. Avoid using metal utensils, which can react with kombucha.
Adjust Sugar and Tea Ratios: Experiment with sugar and tea quantities based on your taste preference. However, avoid reducing the sugar too much, as it’s essential for fermentation.
Store in Glass Containers: Use glass jars or bottles when fermenting kombucha. Plastic containers may contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the kombucha.
Monitor for Mold: If you notice any mould on the SCOBY, discard it immediately. Mold is a sign of contamination, and it’s best to start a new batch.

The Bottom Line

Making kombucha in Nigeria is easy and affordable. It’s an enjoyable way to try something new and potentially improve your gut health. With a few ingredients and some patience, you can brew your own kombucha right at home.

Making kombucha is a versatile process, so feel free to experiment with different flavours and fermentation times to create a brew that suits your taste. Whether you’re new to kombucha or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide will help you get started on making your own refreshing kombucha tea in Nigeria.

For more articles, visit here.