Togo
Togolese cuisine blends West African culinary traditions, showing local produce and a touch of French influence. Food generally comes across as hearty and satisfying.
Staples like corn, rice, millet, cassava, yam, and plantain form the basis of many meals. Fresh fish, chicken, goat, and beef are common protein sources.
Fufu (pounded yam/cassava), Akume/Pâte (corn/millet flour paste), Rice (plain or jollof-style), Plantain (fried as Aloco or pounded for fufu).
Fish (grilled tilapia/sole), Chicken, Goat, Beef. Sauces include Sauce Arachide (peanut butter-based), Ademe Dessi (jute leaves), tomato-based, or palm oil-based.
Chili (pili-pili), ginger, garlic, and onions add warmth. Lomé offers diverse Togolese dishes from various regions and a growing array of international cuisines.
A dense ball of pounded yam or cassava. It pairs with a rich, nutty peanut butter stew, often with chicken, goat, or beef and vegetables. Widely available at local eateries (maquis).
Found at: Local maquis everywhere.
A paste from corn or millet served with a green sauce made from jute leaves, often with smoked fish or meat. Hearty and flavorful.
Found at: Most local Togolese restaurants.
Whole grilled fish (tilapia or sole), marinated and served with a fiery chili sauce (pili-pili). Accompaniments include attieke or fried plantains.
Found at: Beachside restaurants and maquis specializing in grilled foods.
Tchoukoutou is a traditional millet beer, slightly fermented and alcoholic. Sodabi is a locally distilled, potent spirit from palm wine. Consume with care.
Enjoy fresh, locally made juices from bissap (hibiscus), ginger, or baobab. Agbelima (fermented cassava dough) and Koko (corn flour porridge) are iconic snacks.
Mainly within major luxury hotels like Hotel Sarakawa or Hôtel du 2 Février. Upscale ambiance, refined service, international cuisine, and elevated Togolese dishes.
Numerous options around Lomé, especially in central and coastal areas. A comfortable dining experience with Togolese, West African, and European dishes.
Maquis are small, informal, often open-air local restaurants. They serve traditional dishes at affordable prices. The Grand Marché features a wide array of street food vendors.
Lomé presents a selection of international restaurants catering to its expatriate community and locals seeking variety.
Discover restaurants specializing in French, Lebanese, Chinese cuisines, among others.
These establishments present alternatives to traditional Togolese food, suitable for various palates.
Good for those craving familiar flavors or seeking a change from local dishes.
A sensory experience with diverse street food and local ingredients.
Smaller neighborhood markets for fresh produce and prepared meals.
A large market in the northern part of the city, offering many food options.
Small, informal eateries with traditional dishes at very affordable prices.
This can be challenging. Gluten-free options are not explicitly labeled, and awareness of cross-contamination is limited.
Dishes based on naturally gluten-free staples like rice, yam, or cassava (fufu, akume) are suitable.
Carrying a Translation card explaining your dietary restrictions in French (and possibly Ewe) is highly recommended.
Show this to restaurant staff to communicate your needs clearly.
Engage more deeply with food culture through various experiences.
Be adventurous, try new flavors, and appreciate the rich culinary heritage available.
Formal cooking classes for tourists are limited but may be offered informally by local tour operators or cultural centers.
Many Togolese dishes are prepared year-round, though specific ingredients can be seasonal.
Maquis, informal eateries, often have a lively atmosphere, sometimes with live music, delivering a true taste of local life with authentic Togolese dishes.
Eating at maquis is very affordable, while mid-range and fine dining establishments carry higher costs.
Budget for street food and local eateries for daily meals.
Stay hydrated with bottled water, especially in the tropical climate.
Fresh juices are also a refreshing and safe option.
Embrace the maquis experience. These local eateries present delicious, authentic food at good prices and provide a genuine glimpse into daily Togolese life.
A simple "Bonjour" or "Akpé" (thank you in Ewe) shows respect and goodwill when interacting with vendors and restaurant staff.
Be adventurous, try new flavors, and enjoy the rich culinary heritage on offer in Lomé. It can be a highlight of your visit.
Always choose establishments that appear clean and have a good turnover of customers.
