African Restaurants in Chicago, IL

“oh my gosh. first time eating Somali food. absolutely loved experimenting with different types of breads, the different condiments, eating with banana pouring tea with spices on the food. what a great variety of combinations. So absolutely delicious. if I lived locally to Chicago I would be eating here on the regular! place is simple in decor, long on wants and hospitality. not a lot of seating. five tables total. customer base seems very friendly lots of smelling cab drivers.“

“I reeeaallly don’t usually like loud restaurants, but this place is so fun!! A drum line came out! Felt like a community vibe, and everyone was welcome to join the party. Not a place for intimate conversation, but the food was delicious, cocktails fun—good for an energetic dinner out. You can tell the owners, managers and staff put a lot of love into this sweet small business.“

“My brother and I visited Nayo’s African Cuisine on New Year’s Eve and ordered the jollof rice with a side of plantains. The flavors were beautifully balanced with just the right amount of spice and tasted truly authentic. Everything felt freshly made and full of care. I’d recommend calling ahead to confirm entrée availability, especially on busy days. I’m already looking forward to coming back to try the egusi or okra soup. A great spot for real African comfort food.“

“The only issue i had with my last order was they added sugar to the fufu which we never do in any African cuisine.“

“I called to order bitter leave soup, it was so good and I ended up buying extra Okazi, Afang soups and well seasoned Jollof rice .
The lady knows what she is doing.
I will advise you to call ahead because she makes everything fresh and not microwave warm food“

“It’s about time Chicago gets solid West African cuisine. Dozzy didn’t disappoint. Had the Designer Jollof Rice Bowl and it was delicious. I combined it with a couple orders of the shrimp suya sticks which put it over the top. Now, I loved the jollof, but that’s to be expected. What wasn’t expected was the shrimp. I can honestly say it was some of the best I’ve ever had. The herbs were perfect and it was grilled just the way I like it. I’ve known Dozzy for a long time and I’m so happy he’s sharing his gift to the world. Y’all get some.“

“I am reminiscing on my visit here a couple years ago - I don't live in Chicago and I am not Somali.

I went here with my friend as I was in the neighborhood and wanted to try African food in the city. It is a hole in the wall locals only type of cafeteria. My friend and I were the only non-africans in this busy / crowded restaurant.

I ordered rice, beans, stewed vegetables and bread - I enjoyed my food a good bit but I don't eat meat so perhaps I didn't get the full experience.

BUT half way through eating our meal a little ring comes on through an intercom and everyone gets up and goes to this other room - I assume to pray.🙏🏽
Here my friend and I are the only ones in the cafeteria, eating our food in silence, whereas two minutes ago it was very loud. It was just an eye opening example of how collected and community oriented people can be and still are. My friend and I were just about finishing up when everyone comes out of this room and the restaurant becomes loud again. It was probably the most interesting and beautiful experience I've had at a restaurant.

I hope this place is around for a long while.“

“We were greeted when we walked in, and felt very welcome. She helped with some recommendations, I loved it. Super authentic and that’s what I was looking for. I walked out struggling from eating so much. I couldn’t eat more if I wanted to, Lol.
My plate was on the right, btw!“

“I had never eaten Nigerian food, and the staff was very helpful in recommending dishes. I got the egusi with fufu, beef and chicken. They were also helpful in telling me how to eat it. I really enjoyed the food and will definitely be coming back. Now I just have to figure out how to reheat the fufu so I can finish my leftovers!“

“The food was delicious and service was great.“

“There are a few tables here, but most people I saw order for takeout. Once upon a time, during the pandemic in August 2020, my best friend and I ordered here. We reallyliked the food. I went back inDecember 2023 after her memorial service & the food is still yummy. If I remember correctly, I ordered the goat and rice dish both times. Hugeservings. I made at least 2 meals out of my 1 order.Rest in Peace, dearest Ai (1981-2023).“

“I will highly recommend this restaurant. Everything i’ve experienced at this restaurant has been nothing short of amazing. The hospitality was excellent, the food was outstanding. The scenery was beautiful. I give this place a 10/10“

“Delicious Somali restaurant in Chicago suburbs. My first visit to a Somali restaurant and I was pleasantly surprised. Food was pretty good. Loved the Goat with rice and vegetables. Their tea was good too. Didn't care much for the orange juice made from concentrate. Lady at the counter does all the billing and orders. She spoke decent english. Had to wait to use the bathroom, which was not gender segregated. Interior is very basic, but food makes up for it.“

“wonderful wonderful place. owner is very friendly. usually has her children assiting her. very police, clean place. wonderful atmosphere and great authentic ghanian african food.“

“Family friendly and great service. Food is fresh and professionally served in a nice dish. Also, a good place for Large groups. I will frequent this restaurant. #RevDrChantellBeatyBello“

“My first time trying the Egusi soup with beef and fufu was really good and spicy I really enjoyed it because I’ve been wanting to try it for so long for myself. I can’t describe the taste. I didn’t care for the Jollof rice with chicken it didn’t really do it for me so I’ve had my fix probably won’t eat it again it was just a one and done experience for me“

“First time here and got the beef Egusi with Amala. It came piping hot, both the Amala and Egusi, but I dug in anyway. Ripping a piece of Amala, roll, and dip. African cuisine is often eaten with your hands, and I like to experience food the way the culture intend it to be. One of the staff was surprised I suggested eating with my hands and asked a bit about me. Guess it's uncommon for non-Africans to eat like Africans here haha

I emptied the bowl and plate, cleaned leftover stew with what's left of my Amala. It was that good. There are other options I should try, and I'll definitely be back to try their other items. Maybe next time I'll take a picture to share“

“Delicious home-style food. Nice and spicy! A++“

“Was watching a TikTok video of someone eating Egusi soup and fufu. I Immediately got a craving. Tried this restaurant once and was hooked.“

“Extraordinary experience ✨“