West African Restaurants near Silver Spring, MD

“Love the food and the customer service“

“Soo, this is an unconventional review, because I was mentioning to someone how much I was craving some god jollof rice and they recommended this place and another… and imagine my surprise when they were at the Hst festival! I hopped in line, waited (amongst a crowd) for about 10-15 mins… they did have a fluid operation going for an outdoor event, so I can only imagine what a dine in experience is like! Very impressive.

But, can’t compare prices because it was an event… but the 2 items I got were definitely pricey and flavorful!
And probably enough for 2 people to have some sides if you chose a meat entree (which I didn’t), just the 2 sides (which would classify as vegetarian, Macn cheese and the jollof ( possibly vegan, not sure if the rice was boiled in a broth?)

The Jollof: The rice was very different, can’t explain the grain used, it’s very small, reminiscent of a tiny couscous… I’m told they use something similar in Hati, but with the other flavors and veggies with the grilled onions on top, it was just right.
But I was informed the Senegalese do jollof different.

So yes on the very different, but equally yes on the flavor, though different also, it was hints that are familiar while taking their own spin on it.

Will be on the lookout for them if I’m ever close to that side of Maryland.“

“great seafood, will come back!“

“We were really excited to eat here to celebrate my wife’s birthday and it was one of the best dinner experiences we’ve had in DC. Not exaggerating, it’s the best sauce work on dishes we have ever tasted. The sauces for the piri salad, branzino, and shrimp were the highlights while the oysters were the standout. Our server (Cesar) was phenomenal and gave us great recommendations. We are excited to come back here with our friends in the near future!“

“Excellent quality, very authentic food. If you love spicy this is the spot for sure to check out. You can build your own bowl and have plenty of options to choose from, also the beverages are authentic as well. Definitely not expensive yet fairly priced yet still excellent in qualitu. Highly recommend!“

“So many folks have been drawn to the new kid on the block, Koma Café, but don’t forget about the welcoming, delicious and expansive Mansa Kunda at the corner of Flower and Erie Aves. There is plenty of interesting space to enjoy a meal, a quiet afternoon coffee or a friendly drink. You can even sit on a chair made from a traditional West African drum. There couldn’t be a more gracious host than Hatib who serves brunch in addition to lunch and dinner. This morning he welcomed five of us for a 10:00am feast, first asking if there was anything we didn’t eat (meat for the most part) but yes to eggs. We trusted him to surprise us and indeed he did. The veggie omelets were tender, whole wheat rolls still warm, the home fries crunchy and rich and the Brussel sprouts delicious. There were small coconut fritters, lightly fried and dusted with powdered sugar. So tasty! The brunch menu at Mansa Kunda includes familiar favorites like blueberry pancakes in addition to traditional West African dishes. Peanut butter chu anyone? It’s open from 10:00am to 9:00pm every day with Happy Hour from 4:00 to 7:00. Hatib is also an excellent baker so the sweets are a treat. We’re very lucky to have Mansa Kunda in the neighborhood. If you haven’t been there already, you’ll find something special to enjoy.“

“The best restaurant in USA“

“Really delicious Ivorian food -- grilled red snapper, stews, and jollof. I love the little curries that came with our dishes. But honestly the fresh ginger juice was seriously the best ginger drink I've had anywhere. We're going back to just pick that stuff up and sip and restore life to our eyes. Friendly folks too :)“

“Really cool store that has a lot of Senegalese items around for sale. The food was perfect it was my first time having west African food and I really liked how Smokey and barbequey the food was. I got the large lamb platter and they really packed on the rice and lamb, it was really delicious and the onions were particularly good. The lamb wasn’t gamey at all and had a great taste and chew. The turn around time on the order was quick as well and very friendly staff.“