Explore the Warmth of Nigerian Cuisine at Flavours Restaurant

Discover the Comfort of Nigerian Cuisine at Flavours Restaurant

As winter blankets Calgary in chilly weather, local families are finding warmth and delight in the vibrant flavors offered at Flavours Restaurant. Nestled in Northwest Calgary, this culinary gem invites families, food enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore a rich tapestry of Nigerian cuisine to come together and savor home-cooked meals that warm not just the stomach, but the heart.

A Taste of Tradition with a Family-Friendly Twist

Bola Esan, the owner of Flavours Restaurant, extends a welcoming invitation that sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. On a snowy December evening, Bola and her team enveloped us in extraordinary hospitality that made us feel right at home. It was an early dinner with a cozy atmosphere, perfectly suited for our family, including our energetic two-year-old, who was about to embark on a delicious journey.

We kicked off our meal with Sweet Fried Puff Puff—golden, fluffy, and indulgent pieces of heaven that quickly turned into a hit with our little one. Priced at just $7 for 12 pieces, these delightful nuggets are reminiscent of “Nigerian Timbits,” as the owners jokingly referred to them, and they were an instant joy especially with the amusing addition of toy sword skewers upon which we devoured them.

Welcoming Flavors: The Fish Pepper Soup Experience

As the meal progressed, we found ourselves enchanted by the Fish Pepper Soup ($10). This not-your-typical soup boasted a festive warmth with its light, aromatic broth laced with fresh mint—a refreshing surprise! The base of the dish was basa fish, and surprisingly versatile with options for chicken and goat meat as well. We opted for the mild version which was dubbed by our hosts as even less spicy than usual—perfect for our little one. The first sip left my son wide-eyed but eagerly requesting seconds!

Homemade Goodness: Meat Pies and Jollof Rice

Next came the Meat Pie ($3), which wrapped spicy-savoriness in a flaky crust that was simply irresistible. Our server revealed that they’re available for take-home baking, making for a delightful family treat at just 12 for $10. Our culinary adventure escalated with a generous serving of the restaurant's renowned Jollof Rice ($19), served alongside succulent chicken legs and sweet fried plantains. The rice held onto a slightly smoky kick, a pleasant surprise amidst the fragrant ingredients of tomatoes and onions. With a bit of spice and sweetness from the perfectly fried plantains ($3), this dish may just have become our household favorite!

Embarking On a Culinary Journey with Signature African Meals

As our dining experience unfolded, we were particularly excited to try Bola's signature African meal comprising Iyan, Egusi, Efo Riro, and Goat Meat ($19-24). This dish is a Nigerian tradition that introduced us to okole, or “swallow,” which is meant to be enjoyed with your fingers. We savored iyan, made from pounded yam and strikingly reminiscent of velvety mashed potatoes—modestly flavored yet delightfully nourishing.

For many in Calgarians, such meals reflect the cultural bridges we are building through cuisine. Flavours Restaurant isn’t just about food; it’s a celebration of heritage and a community gathering place that speaks to familiar comforts found in the kitchen.

Engaging Community Spirits

The owners of Flavours Restaurant are deeply invested in creating a space that not only serves meals but fosters relationships and community spirit. This dynamic restaurant has become a center for friends and families to gather around tables adorned with vibrant dishes that ignite conversations and create memories—an invaluable element in today’s fast-paced world.

Takeaway for Home Chefs and Culinary Adventurers

For those intrigued by the delightful offerings at Flavours, there are opportunities beyond dining in! Take-home meat pies make for a fun and flavorful family activity, and the warmth that comes from cooking at home resonates with the heartwarming ethos that we found at the restaurant. Embrace this opportunity to experiment with Nigerian cuisine in your own kitchen with their available ingredients and recipes!

So why wait? Immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere filled with the heart and spirit of Nigeria's culinary heritage. Flavours Restaurant is the place where every bite is a step towards greater community connection. If you're looking to explore the delicious sides of local dining experiences with your loved ones, gather your family and venture to NW Calgary for a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget!