The 7 Best African Restaurants in Winnipeg That’ll Spice Up Your Next Meal
Ever had one of those days where you stare into your fridge, hoping some magical meal will appear? Yeah, me too.
One time, I gave it my best summoning spell, and all I got was a sad slice of leftover pizza and a half-empty bottle of ketchup. That’s when I decided enough was enough—it was time to explore Winnipeg’s culinary scene.
Let me tell you, stumbling into some of our city’s African restaurants was like finding Narnia… except instead of a wardrobe, I walked through the doors of flavor heaven.
From the first bite of injera to the smoky perfection of jollof rice, I realized I’d been missing out on some serious spice and soul.
So, if you’re tired of your fridge’s lack of ambition or just looking to jazz up your next meal, let me take you on a journey to the best African restaurants in Winnipeg. Let’s go!
1. Jollof Life Restaurant
– Media credit: jollof_life.foods
Location: 600 Portage Ave
Website: https://jolloflife.ca/
Phone: +12049632266
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11 am – 8 pm
- Friday: 11 am – 9 pm
- Saturday: 12 pm – 9 pm
- Sunday: 12 pm – 6 pm
Must-order: Ofada Rice with Ayamase
Price range: $$ – average
If you’re craving authentic West African flavors here in Winnipeg, Jollof Life should be at the top of your list. Nothing beats the feeling of a delicious, hearty meal that’s also packed with the nutrition you need.
And while Jollof Life is known for its Nigerian specialties, you’ll find a rich spread of West African treats that are sure to leave you satisfied.
When you go, make sure to try the Ofada Rice with Ayamase—it’s this aromatic, slightly nutty rice served with Ayamase, a spicy green pepper sauce that’s bursting with flavor thanks to a mix of tender meats.
Or, if you’re in the mood for something comforting, the Pounded Yam with Egusi is a winner. You get pounded yam alongside Egusi soup, which is thick, savory, and made from melon seeds with a variety of meats mixed in.
2. Akin’s African Restaurant
– Media credit: akinsafricanrestaurant
Location: 570A Sargent Ave
Website: https://akinsrestaurant.com/
Phone: +12047868400
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12 pm – 9 pm
- Sunday: 12 pm – 8 pm
Must-order: Jollof Rice
Price range: $$ – average
Akin’s African Restaurant is another go-to spot for anyone curious about authentic African cuisine or simply longing for those native flavors.
They’re known for using only the finest ingredients to bring these dishes to life, so every bite feels like a little trip to Africa!
Now, if you’re wondering what to order, their Jollof Rice is a crowd favorite—a vibrant, spicy rice dish cooked up with tomatoes, onions, and an irresistible mix of spices.
It’s usually paired with tender chicken or beef, a fresh salad, and, of course, fried plantains (known as dodo).
And for something with a bit of heat, the Assorted Pepper Soup is a perfect pick! This rich, spicy broth comes with all sorts of goodies: parboiled rice, beef, smoked goat, cow skin, and even beef tripe.
3. MegLek Kitchen
– Media credit: meglek_kitchen
Location: 164 Isabel St Unit 2
Website: https://meglekkitchen.ca/
Phone: +14313343765
Operating hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: 10 am – 10 pm
- Wednesday: 10 am – 4 pm
Must-order: Moimoi
Price range: $$ – average
MegLek Kitchen whips up a variety of dishes that cater to all kinds of taste buds, whether you’re into heavy rice meals, comforting bean dishes, or their signature “swallows” paired with flavorful soups.
Now, let me tell you about their Moimoi—a savory bean pudding wrapped in Moimoi leaves, with fish and eggs tucked inside. It’s the kind of dish that hits all the right notes.
And of course, you can’t go wrong with their classic Jollof Rice with Turkey or Chicken. The rice is perfectly spiced, cooked with a pepper and tomato blend, and comes with two pieces of protein and some sweet fried plantains on the side. It’s comfort food at its finest!
The best part? You don’t even have to leave your couch to enjoy it. They’re on Uber Eats and SkipTheDishes, so a feast can be at your doorstep in no time.
4. Madina Shawarma
– Media credit: madinashawarma
Location: 305 McPhillips St Unite 500
Website: https://madinashawarma.ca/
Phone: +12043064663
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11 am – 9 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm
- Sunday: 12 pm – 7 pm
Must-order: Samosa
Price range: $$ – average
Madina Shawarma is a cozy Somali-Mediterranean restaurant where the meals are so fresh and delectable, you’ll feel like you’ve been invited into someone’s kitchen in Somalia.
They do grilled meats and vegetarian dishes with rice, pasta, or salad, and everything is seasoned with these secret spice blends that make the beef and chicken unforgettable. Honestly, one bite, and you’ll be hooked!
One dish people keep coming back here for is the Samosas. You can get them stuffed with either beef or chicken and wrapped in this tender, homey shell that looks like your grandma made it. They’re perfect if you just want a little snack or something to start with.
Oh, and don’t leave without trying the Sabaayad—think of it like East African chapati. It’s soft, flaky, and goes with everything! Whether you pair it with your meal or just nibble on it solo, you’ll understand why it’s a staple.
5. D&D Afrikana Restaurant
– Media credit: ddafrikana
Location: 789 Ellice Ave
Website: https://ddafrikanarestaurant.com/
Phone: +12047755555
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm
- Sunday: 2 pm – 8 pm
Must-order: Suya
Price range: $$ – average
This place doesn’t just serve food—it serves soul on a plate. Their dishes are made with the freshest West African ingredients, and you can feel the authenticity in every bite.
I mean, whether it’s their rich oxtail stew or a bowl of pepper soup that warms you to your core, they’ve got something to make your taste buds dance.
If you’re new to D&D Afrikana, their Suya is really a game changer—spiced beef skewers with a blend of ground peanuts and spices. It’s smoky, nutty, and straight-up addictive—a flavor bomb indeed!
And if you happen to have an event coming up, their catering is top-notch too. Give them a call and let them bring the flavors of West Africa to your table.
6. AFV Kitchen
– Media credit: afvkitchen
Location: 1373 Pembina Hwy #3
Website: https://afvkitchen.ca/
Phone: +12044148808
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 6 am – 9:30 pm
- Sunday: 10 am – 9:30 pm
Must-order: Asun
Price range: $$ – average
AFV Kitchen, short for Afro Food Vineyard, has been serving authentic West African flavors in Winnipeg since 2015, thanks to the passion of Chef Folasade Akin-Akinbulumo from Osun State, Nigeria.
What started as a grocery store and takeout spot is now a beloved diner, fueled by support from her kids and Winnipeg’s Nigerian community.
If you’re lucky enough to be here, there’s one thing you absolutely can’t miss on the menu, the Asun—a spicy goat meat roasted to perfection, then cooked down in a fiery mix of scotch bonnet and bell peppers.
And to balance out the heat, try their Zobo drink—it’s made from hibiscus leaves and packs a refreshing, tangy punch. Perfect for cooling down after all that spice!
7. Feast of Africa
– Media credit: feastofafrica
Location: 376 Furby St
Phone: +12046916779
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 7 pm – 5 am
Must-order: Fufu/Swallow
Price range: $$ – average
The Feast of Africa is a favorite among locals whenever those late-night cravings hit. This diner is open from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m., and they have lots of African options!
If I were to recommend a dish here, I’d say try their Fufu (or Swallow as it’s sometimes called)—it’s this heavy, starchy side made from pounded yam, and it pairs perfectly with a rich vegetable soup called efo-riro.
And if you’re a meat lover, go for the Beef Suya! These spicy, grilled beef skewers are seasoned with a mix of African spices that’ll have you hooked from the first bite.