Funsho Ogundipe
My Lagos is an interview-style feature in which people who know Lagos well share the best things to see and do in this great city.
1. Describe Lagos in three words.
A rough diamond.
2. What is your favourite thing to do in Lagos?
For me it would be going out for a meal followed by a visit to Jazzhole a music store and bookshop with a cafe where you have a wide selection of teas coffee and fruit juices. After that a visit to a beach.
3. What is your favourite bar or club in Lagos and why?
Any of the local bars is fun. Here you get to meet working people and can share in the latest news about politics sports and so on.
4. What is your favourite restaurant in Lagos and why?
On the island Primi Piatti in Lekki is world class. It boasts a cosmopolitan menu, good staff and the food is really fantastic. Reme Obaseki has worked in Cape Town and represents the new breed of Chef in Nigeria. International experience and attention to detail. On the mainland there is a small working man’s cafe on Oyemekun Street in Ogba called Madam Chi cChi’s. The Ofe Nsala and pounded yam is just out of this world.
5. What do you love about Lagos?
The weather. The mix of old and new architecture. The bookstores. The vibrant can-do attitude of the people and the parks. Finally, the sheer diversity of the people and cultures makes for a rich cocktail of people and experience.
6. If you met someone new to Lagos, how would you suggest they spend a day in the city?
Go to one of the large markets and take a look. Explore the streets on the old Lagos Island. Then visit a local book and record store before winding down at a local cafe where you can enjoy the local gossip.
Funsho Ogundipe is a Composer and Pianist. He is music director of the band Ayetoro and is the composer of the tunes Revenge of the Flying Monkeys and Something Dey. He is also a filmmaker and lives in Lagos. Follow him on Twitter.
