In this article, Catalystng.com is going to talk about the top 20 Amala spots, restaurants, and pepper soup joints in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, Nigeria.
Ibadan is often regarded as one of the largest cities in West Africa by landmass, covering about 3,080 square kilometers. In terms of population, it ranks as the third-largest city in Nigeria, after Lagos and Kano.
The city has earned a strong reputation among Nigerians as the true home of Amala, particularly the beloved black Amala, which remains a staple delicacy for both residents and visitors.
For over five decades, Ibadan has maintained its status as a top destination for Amala lovers—whether you live in the city, are visiting briefly, or just passing through.
In the 21st century, however, Ibadan’s food scene has evolved beyond just Amala. The city is now home to a growing number of well-established restaurants and pepper soup spots, making it a vibrant culinary hub that offers a wide range of dining experiences worth exploring.
See the list below;
1. Iya Adija Restaurant
Iya Adija Restaurant has been serving hot, authentic Amala for about two decades, earning a strong reputation as one of the standout spots in Ibadan’s local food scene.
The restaurant is widely recognized as one of the pioneers that helped popularize Abula—a delicious combination of Amala, ewedu, gbegiri, and stew—beyond local borders, turning it into a celebrated delicacy among food lovers.
Over the years, it has also contributed significantly to the local economy in Ibadan and Oyo State through its thriving food business.
Customers are treated to a wide variety of protein options, including goat meat, abodi (offal), and assorted meats. While they also serve fufu, the restaurant remains best known for its rich Amala paired with ewedu, gbegiri, and flavorful stew, which continues to attract both residents and visitors alike.
In the year 2018, Davido visited Iya Adija to fill his tummy in the city of brown roofs. See photo below;
See more photos of Iya Adija, see below (swipe to view more);
2. Shandys Restaurant
Shandys Restaurant, established in 2015, is a popular dining spot in Ibadan known for its rich selection of continental dishes, as well as refreshing mocktails and cocktails.
Conveniently located in the Mokola area, the restaurant offers a variety of services including dine-in, takeout, and catering, making it a versatile option for both casual outings and special events.
Shandys Restaurant operates daily from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. For reservations or inquiries, customers can chat or call +2348128577643.
3. D1 Pepper Soup
D1 pepper soup is a spicy, aromatic Nigerian broth featuring tender assorted meats (goat, tripe, or fish) simmered with fresh spices like habanero, garlic, and ginger. It uses key ingredients like ground ehu (calabash nutmeg), uziza seeds, and scented leaves, often served with yam or agidi. This comfort dish is ideal for cold weather or as a flavorful appetizer.
They are located inside Ori Oke, Mokola, Ibadan, Oyo-State, Nigeria.
4. Aunty Amina Onituwo
Aunty Amina Onituwo deals with Tuwo and gbegiri with buka stew. She is located behind the Total filling station, Itutaba Oje, Ibadan, Oyo-State, Nigeria.
Opeyemi Famakin has visited the Woman who sells Tuwo at Oje,Ibadan.❤️
— Zab’s Cuisine (@ZabsCuisine) October 26, 2025
She is about to have another big breakthrough in her food business..
God is good🙏 pic.twitter.com/F5X5rGYSjb
5. Abebi Ofada
Abebi Ofada is a popular local eatery renowned for its authentic Ofada rice served with a variety of flavorful sides—its signature dish that keeps patrons coming back.
Situated on Ring Road, directly opposite Lister Building and near GTBank, it’s a favorite spot for fans of traditional Nigerian cuisine in Ibadan.
The restaurant offers a small sit-in area, but takeout or delivery is often more convenient.
☎️ 08060801405, 09011843607
⏰ Mon–Sat: 8am – 6pm
📍 Opposite Lister Building, Ring Road, Ibadan
💳 Meals under ₦5,000
6. Iya Ayoka Oniyan
Iya Ayoka Oníyàn is a well-known local spot in Ibadan, Oyo State, famous for serving authentic pounded yam (iyan) alongside a variety of traditional soups.
Located at No. 57, Samonda, opposite Mobil Filling Station on Sango-UI Road, the eatery has built a strong reputation for its quality “swallow” meals and well-prepared meat.
Open from Monday to Friday, typically from 2:00 PM, Iya Ayoka is widely regarded as a must-visit destination for lovers of local cuisine in Ibadan.
Location: 57 Samonda, Opposite Mobil Filling Station, Sango-UI Road, Ibadan
Specialty: Pounded Yam (Iyan)
Hours: Monday–Friday, from 2:00 PM
Known For: Rich soups, soft pounded yam, and tasty meat
Notable Mention: Frequently featured in Ibadan food vlogs
7. Iya Nafishat Elekuru
Iya Nafishat Elekuru is a popular spot in Ibadan known for serving Ekuru paired with rich assorted sauces and sides.
Ekuru, a traditional Yoruba dish made from peeled beans, is typically enjoyed with a roughly blended pepper sauce and a variety of proteins.
The eatery is located in the Idi-Ape area, with outlets at Jericho Mall and Mobil, Ring Road, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. You can call 09154999924. They are open Monday to Friday.
@kikieonije PART 7 | DAY 7 OF 8 DAYS LORI TITI IBADAN IBADAN WHO MAKES AND SELL THE BEST EKURU IIN YOUR CITY??? 📍IYA NAFISAT ELEKURU (09154999924) IDI APE BEHIND TROY PHARMACY, IBADAN #kikieonije #streetfood #8dayslorititiibadan #Foodtok #foodspot ♬ original sound – Kikieonije😋|Eyin Onije😋
8. Tamberma Restaurant
Tamberma Restaurant is a Chinese-style dining spot located in the Iyaganku area of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring Indian, Nigerian, Chinese, continental dishes, as well as BBQ and grill options. Sundays at Tamberma bring together good music, great food, and the kind of moments you don’t want to miss.
📍 1, Oba Aleshinloye Crescent, Iyaganku GRA, Ibadan
📞 +234 807 559 0939
9. Iya Waakye
Iya Waakye Ibadan, located around Orita Challenge in Ibadan, is known for serving authentic Ghanaian-style waakye—a flavorful rice and beans combination also referred to as “wache.”
Prepared with traditional sorghum leaves that give it its signature reddish-brown color, the dish is typically served with a variety of sides such as stew, fried fish, eggs, plantain, spaghetti (talia), and more, delivering a rich West African street-style experience.
Specialty: Authentic Ghanaian waakye and combo meals
Location: Orita Challenge, Ibadan, Oyo State
Serving Style: Paired with assorted sides including rice, beans, spaghetti, fried fish, plantain, eggs, and rich tomato stew
Services: Also offers private chef services, luxury meal setups for events, and curated lunch trays for special occasions
@kikieonije PART 6 | DAY 6 OF 8 DAYS LORI TITI IBADAN IBADAN I FOUND AN AUTHENTIC WAAKYE SPOT IN YOUR CITY??? 📍IYA WAAKYE (0901 120 0862) ORITA CHALLENGE , IBADAN #kikieonije #streetfood #8dayslorititiibadan #Foodtok #foodspot ♬ original sound – Kikieonije😋|Eyin Onije😋
10. Iya Gbolahan Ponmo
Iya Gbolahan Ponmo is known for producing Ponmo Alata (processed cow skin) in Ori Oke Mokola, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The business focuses on preparing this popular Nigerian delicacy using traditional methods such as burning, washing, and thorough cleaning to ensure high-quality ponmo suitable for cooking.
Product: Ponmo Alata (processed/spiced cow skin)
Location: Ori Oke Mokola, Ibadan, Oyo State
Process: Prepared through traditional techniques including burning, washing, and cleaning
Usage: Commonly used in soups, stews, and other Nigerian dishes
@zabs_cusine #makeviralvideo #makemefamous #asunrice #ponmo ♬ Wasiu Ayinde – Bhadboi OML
11. Iya Elegbo
A popular Ibadan street food vendor, Iya Elegbo—also known as Iya Ariyo Egbo Base—has continued to attract food lovers to Bodija Market with her signature local delicacies.
Located within the bustling Bodija Market in Ibadan, Oyo State, the vendor is widely known for serving Egbo (boiled maize) and Ewa (beans), paired with a rich, spicy pepper sauce. The meals are often complemented with assorted sides such as fried fish, goat meat, and boiled eggs.
Egbo, a traditional Yoruba dish made from softened maize removed from the cob, is a staple in the offering and is praised for its unique texture and flavor.
The food spot has gained recognition for delivering authentic and affordable native meals, frequently featured in Ibadan food tours and culinary reviews.
They work from Monday to Friday from 2PM in the afternoon till the food finishes.
12. BankyLooLas Mobile
BankyLooLas Mobile specializes in small chops, grills, and a variety of finger foods, offering tasty options for both casual bites and events.They are located inside Jericho Mall, Mobil Ring Road, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
⏰ Mon–Sat: 8am – 9pm | Sun: 11am – 9pm
🛵 Delivery & Pickup available
To order, WhatsApp/Call: 08093041111, 09113839301
13. Chef Kab’s Pasta
Chef Kab’s Pasta specializes in express pasta dishes alongside a variety of continental and fast meals.
Located at No. 10, Osuntokun Avenue, Bodija, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, the spot caters to both quick bites and satisfying meals.
They offer dine-in, delivery, and event catering services.
📍 10 Osuntokun Avenue, Bodija, Ibadan
⏰ Open daily: 9am – 8pm
👇🏽 Order via WhatsApp | Chowdeck | Heyfood
14. Fresh2Go Parfait
Fresh2Go Oluyole is a top healthy food spot located at 3, Alaafin Avenue, Ace Mall, Oluyole, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. It is known for serving fresh, creamy parfaits, nutritious salads, smoothies, sandwiches, wraps, and fresh juices.
With a focus on premium ingredients and freshly prepared meals, it has become a go-to destination for healthy and convenient dining in Ibadan.
Location: 3 Alaafin Avenue, Ace Mall, Oluyole, Ibadan
Specialties: Parfaits, healthy salads, smoothies, wraps, sandwiches, and fresh juices
Menu Focus: Fresh, nutritious, and high-quality ingredients
Other Locations: Jericho Mall, Bond Mall (Bodija), Heritage Mall (Dugbe), Akobo, and Akala Express
Ordering: Available via platforms like Heyfood and Instagram DM
Fresh2Go Oluyole stands out as one of the preferred spots for fresh and healthy treats within Ibadan’s growing food scene.
15. Ahere Bush Meat & Palm Wine
Ahere Bush Meat & Palm Wine is a local spot known for serving bush meat alongside fresh palm wine.It is located adjacent to LOF Gas on Akala Express Road, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
16 Alfa Puff Puff
A popular snack vendor, Alfa Obelawo Puff Puff, has continued to attract customers with its affordable and freshly made treats at Bodija Market in Ibadan.
The vendor is well known for selling puff puff at just ₦50 per piece, alongside other pastries such as egg buns, doughnuts, and buns.
In addition to its walk-in sales, the business also offers catering services for events, further expanding its reach beyond the market.
Alfa Obelawo Puff Puff operates multiple outlets, including locations opposite Sango Motor Park, across the road at Bus Stop Gate, and at 2nd Gate, New Gbagi.
Food lovers visiting Bodija Market are often encouraged to stop by for a taste of the hot, freshly prepared snacks.
@helloibadan Where’s the best street puff puff spot in Ibadan? 🤔 We recently checked out the popular puff puff spot, Alfa Obelawo Puff Puff, located inside Bodija Market. Their freshly made puff puff sells for just N50 a piece, and they’ve got other pastries too, like egg buns, doughnuts, and buns. They also provide catering services for events. You can find their branches opposite Sango Motor Park across the road, the Bus Stop Gate, and 2nd Gate New Gbagi. If you ever find yourself in Bodija Market, be sure to stop by and grab some hot puff puff. Have you tried this puff puff spot before? Rate them in the comments👇🏽 📍 : Kola Eleja shopping complex, beside First Bank, opposite Bodija police station ☎️ : 08036857203, 08108313426 💳 : ₦ ~~~ Price Guide: ₦ – Less than ₦5,000 per head ₦₦ – Between ₦5,000 – ₦10,000 per head ₦₦₦ – Above ₦10,000 per head ~~~ 💛 Like & Share 💛 Follow @_helloibadan for more #puffpuff #puffpuffspotinibadan #streetfood #exploreibadan #nigeria #ibadan #ibadantiktok🔥 ♬ Ijo (Laba Laba) – Crayon
@alfapuffpuffnigeria ♬ original sound – Alfa puffpuff
17. The Seapride Restaurant
The Seapride Restaurant ranked as Ibadan’s No. 1 Seafood Restaurant
With 1,294 posts, 132K followers, and 859 following on Instagram as of the moment of filling this content, The Sea Pride is a top destination for seafood lovers.
The restaurant specializes in freshly cooked seafood daily and also offers catering services for events.
📍 Located at Iyana Anfani Roundabout, 26 MKO Abiola Way, Ring Road, Ibadan, Oyo State. They are also located at No 44, Awolowo Road, Old Bodija.
@helloibadan We recently visited The Sea Pride to try out their seafood menu and it was certainly an exhilarating experience! ✨ They have several seafood options including: 👉🏽 A proper menu to choose from 👉🏽 Crabs 👉🏽 Jumbo Prawns 👉🏽 Giant Lobsters 👉🏽 Seafood pasta 👉🏽 Shrimps/Crawlfish 👉🏽 Snails 👉🏽 Seafood noodles 👉🏽 Small chops 👉🏽 Snails 👉🏽 Indoor and Outdoor catering services 👉🏽 and so much more Their meals gave what it was supposed to give! 💯 Tried Seafood yet? Tag someone you’d like to go with? 👇🏽 🗺️ : No 44, Awolowo Road, Old Bodija 📸 : @the_sea_pride ☎️ : 07062270224 💳 : ₦₦₦ ~~~ Price Guide: ₦ – Less than ₦5,000 per head ₦₦ – Between ₦5,000 – ₦10,000 per head ₦₦₦ – Above ₦10,000 per head ~~~ 👇🏽 Tag someone who should take you here and also follow @_helloibadan for more #seafood #seafoods #lounge #helloibadan #ibadanlounges #loungesinib #tournigeria #thingstodoinibadan #exploreibadan #nigeria #ibadan #restaurant #ibadanrestaurants #restaurantinibadan #ibadanrestaurant #ibadantiktok #tiktokibadan ♬ NO COMPETITION (feat. Asake) – Davido
18. Bolefrommars (No 1 Bole spot, sliced boiled platter )
Bolefrommars, widely regarded as the top spot for bole in Ibadan, is making waves with its unique take on the traditional dish.
Unlike the usual bole served simply with groundnuts, this version comes with a rich, flavorful sauce and a variety of protein options, creating a more filling and satisfying meal for customers.
A full portion—including bole, fish, and sauce—is priced at ₦1,500. The eatery is located at Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall, University of Ibadan, near the bridge and cafeteria.
Bolefrommars operates daily from 1 PM to 9 PM, except Sundays, and offers both delivery and pickup services.
📞 0701 646 6170
✨ Instagram: @bolefrommars.
19. Esa’s Kitchen Calabar
Esa’s Kitchen Calabr has emerged as a go-to spot in Ibadan for lovers of authentic homemade Calabar cuisine.
Located beside WOC Supermarket along Jericho, Oyo State, the eatery serves a wide range of traditional Calabar dishes, including Afang soup, Edikaikong, bitter leaf soup, Egusi, Ogbono, white soup, and more.
Known for its rich flavors and home-cooked quality, Esa’s Kitchen Calabr continues to attract food enthusiasts seeking genuine Calabar meals in the city.
20. Amala Skye, Ibadan
Amala Skye, also known as Ose Olorun Food Canteen, is a popular roadside eatery located in Bodija Market, Ibadan.
The original spot sits beside the old Sky Bank, with a newer, modern branch right next to it. The eatery is renowned for serving hot Amala paired with traditional soups like Ewedu and Gbegiri (Abula).
Location: Bodija Market, Ibadan (roadside)
Popular Name: Amala Skye / Ose Olorun
Specialty: Amala with Ewedu and Gbegiri
Operating Hours: Typically open from morning till evening, Monday to Saturday
Ordering: Available via Chowdeck
@helloibadan We recently stopped by Amala Sky, also known as Ose Olorun in Bodija, one of Ibadan’s most popular Amala spots! They’ve been around for a long time, a true OG in the business. At Amala Sky, you can enjoy Amala with any soup of your choice, plus other Nigerian dishes like rice and more. They also do delivery too. Have you visited before? What was your experience like? ⏰ : Open Mon – Sat, 9am to 8pm 📍 : Beside Polaris bank, Bodija market 💳 : Amala per scoop is ₦300 💛 : Like, save and share and follow for more #amalaspotinibadan #amalasky #ibadan #helloibadan #ibadantiktok🔥 ♬ Koloba Koloba – Adewale Ayuba
