I visited Taste of Nigeria with my seven-year-old daughter and a friend, and while the food itself…read morewas good, the overall experience was disappointing due to the customer service and lack of professionalism.
We arrived around 9:17-9:20 PM and waited until approximately 9:35 PM before being attended to. When someone finally approached us, we were initially told we couldn't be served, but they eventually agreed to accommodate us.
Unfortunately, the interaction while placing our order wasn't very welcoming. The employee seemed irritated and inconvenienced by having to take our order and answer a few basic questions about the menu. As someone trying a different cuisine and wanting to understand what I was ordering, I would've appreciated a little more patience and hospitality. I eventually felt the need to explain myself, and after a few exchanges, her attitude softened and she became friendlier, which I appreciated. However, it shouldn't take that much effort for a customer to feel welcomed.
For our meals, I ordered the extra-spicy egusi with goat meat and pounded yam. My daughter had the chicken with jollof rice and plantains, and my friend ordered egusi with beef and pounded yam.
The food was genuinely good, and I enjoyed the flavors. My only complaint regarding the food was the temperature. Everything arrived lukewarm rather than freshly hot, and it gave the impression that the plates had been sitting for a while before being brought out. I would've enjoyed the meal much more if it had been served hot.
What really made the experience uncomfortable was what happened while we were eating. The employees began arguing among themselves, creating an unprofessional atmosphere in the dining area. I had my seven-year-old daughter with me, and that's simply not the kind of environment I expect when taking my family out to eat.
I also noticed several other customers waiting for their orders, and overall, there seemed to be a lack of attentiveness and organization.
I understand that restaurants get busy, especially toward closing, and I appreciate that they ultimately accommodated us. However, good food should be accompanied by good service and a welcoming atmosphere.
I would consider giving Taste of Nigeria another chance because I did enjoy the food, but I sincerely hope the customer service, communication, and overall professionalism improve. The food has potential to make this a great experience, but unfortunately, the service overshadowed it this time.