EatOkra's Summer Interns, Abigail and Kayla's favorite spots in NYC are here. This guide includes Abigail's favorite Ghanaian and West African restaurants and Kayla's favorite brunch spots in NYC. We hope you check these places out and enjoy them!
LessPapaye is Abigail’s go to spot for ghanaian food for as far as she can remember. "Papaye offers a variety of Ghanaian delicacies and it's the closest you can get to authentic Ghanaian food in the Bronx. My favorite is the Waakye with beef & goat meat. You have to order the delicious fixings including spaghetti, gari and shito with it too. You definitely have to try the beef kebab also. It has so much flavor with the onions in between each meat and it's the best you can get at a low cost price."
"If you are in the East Village & are looking for a Caribbean oasis, Miss Lily’s 7A Cafe is the place for you! This colorful and welcoming restaurant serves Jamaican Cuisine for brunch and dinner, equipped with an expansive rum bar. I love visiting Miss Lily’s for brunch for their fluffy Coconut Pancakes, unforgettable Jerk Chicken Roti, and Dully Wine. Additionally, their World Famous Jerk Chicken, unique drinks, and vibrant interior give even more reasons to keep coming back for more." - Kayla
"Right in the middle of Times Square, Lagos Nyc is one not to miss. It serves amazing Nigerian food and cocktails, best for girls' night out and birthday celebrations. My favorite is the peri peri wings with jollof rice and sweet plantains. The Suya is also one not to miss; it's the best item on the menu. The ambiance in the restaurant is incredible, with the sweet sounds of Afrobeats. This is the place to go if you want a taste of Nigerian food with immaculate vibes." - Abigail
"Sylvia’s is famously known as the “Queen of Soul Food” for a reason! Located in the heart of Harlem, Slyvia’s family restaurant has a homey and welcoming atmosphere with a robust selection of soul food. My family and I frequently crave their Chicken and Waffles for brunch, with sides of candied yams, cornbread, grits, and collard greens. My other favorites on the menu are their baked mac & cheese and Sylvia’s World Famous Talked About Bar-B-Que Ribs. Simply said, Slyvia’s is a must-go!" - Kayla
"Africa Kine offers the best Senegalese food in NYC. Ordering the Dibi is always a must in the restaurant, and its grilled lambs served with onions are exceptionally well seasoned and tender. I also enjoy the homemade ginger drink, which is always refreshing. The portions are big with incredible flavors. The meals at Africa kine will leave you satisfied and wanting to return for more." - Abigail
"While I know this isn’t technically brunch, there is always room for Lloyd’s Carrot Cake! This famous bakery ignited my obsession for carrot cake at a young age, as I would devour a slice after a track meets at Van Cortlandt Park. They offer the carrot cake plain or with nuts and raisins (my favorite), and the cream cheese frosting is light and creamy, adding richness without being overly sweet. The cream cheese frosting is also amazing on their rich and moist red velvet cake." - Kayla