10 Tasty Tidbits from the Heart of Lagos: The Story of Iya Eba

In the heart of Lagos, Nigeria, a city known for its vibrant energy and relentless hustle, there's a culinary institution that has been serving up delicious, traditional Nigerian meals for over half a century. This place is none other than Iya Eba, a beloved local restaurant, or buka, that has become a cornerstone of the community.

In an article by Ayoola Oladipupo of The Republic, we get an intimate look at the history, impact, and legacy of Iya Eba. You really should read the article, it’s a really really good read.

Here are 10 key takeaways from this engaging piece that highlight the importance of this enduring kitchen in the heart of Lagos:

The Fuel of Lagos

Lagos, Nigeria, is a city that never sleeps, and street food, particularly the Iya Eba restaurant, is the fuel that keeps this bustling metropolis moving. For over 50 years, Iya Eba has been serving up delicious meals, one plate at a time.

The Lagos Hustle

The city's fast-paced lifestyle, with workdays starting as early as 4 a.m. and ending at 11 p.m., leaves little time for home cooking. This has led to a significant reliance on street food stalls and local restaurants, known as bukas.

Changing Food Culture

In the past decade, Lagos has seen a dramatic shift in its food culture. The proportion of household food expenditure spent on foods prepared outside the home has increased from 3% in 2010 to 35% in 2019.

The Story of Iya Eba

Iya Eba, a 50-year-old buka in the heart of Lagos, has become a custodian of the city's food heritage. Despite several relocations, it has found its permanent home at 14 Berkeley Street, where it continues to serve traditional Nigerian dishes.

The Matriarch

The driving force behind Iya Eba is Alhaja Fausat Adebayo, a 76-year-old woman whose story of industriousness, resilience, and love for her community continues to inspire and shape the restaurant.

A Community Pillar

Iya Eba is more than just a restaurant. It's a vital part of the community, providing affordable meals and a vibrant social space. During the Covid-19 pandemic, it was chosen to provide free food to the vulnerable in the Onikan community.

Behind the Scenes

Alhaja Adebayo employs over ten women in her kitchen, each with a specific role in the food preparation process. She's there every morning, preparing for the day's activities before her employees arrive.

A Family Affair

The buka is currently managed by Bukky, Alhaja Adebayo’s daughter. She handles the finances and has expanded the buka’s services to include food delivery and event catering.

Customer Service, Lagos Style

Iya Eba's customer service may not fit the conventional definition, but it offers something more valuable: a sense of community and a commitment to providing affordable, traditional food.

A Constant in a Changing City

Despite the rapid changes in Lagos, Iya Eba has remained a constant. It's a testament to the city's food heritage and a beacon of comfort and community for its patrons. In a city that's always in a hurry, Iya Eba is a reminder of the enduring power of tradition and community.