Adonai

This no-frills diner on the ground floor of a public housing tower is one of precious few spots dedicated to serving Nigerian food in Melbourne. Take a peek through the bain-marie’s glass at the myriad of colourful dishes. For snacks, there’s the ridiculously wallet-friendly puff puff, a small spherical golden doughnut which toes the line between delectably soft and delightfully chewy, for 75 cents a pop.

Moin moin shouldn’t be overlooked. Made of steamed black-eyed peas, the log-like savoury pudding hides trevally and hard-boiled egg and is equally spicy, spongy and comforting. Nigeria’s national dish – the red-hued, tomato-y jollof rice – is essential, and you can deliberate between the waiter-recommended chicken or chilli-packed beef stew as accompaniment.

Fans of tender goat might consider the super fiery grilled dish, asun. Don’t forget a side of fried plantain: banana’s less-sweet, starchy cousin.

Good to know: Check the opening hours before you go as they jump around throughout the week.

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