Jollof by Jara Shuts Down: Lagos Loses Another One
Lagos' food scene just took another hit. Jollof by Jara, the brainchild of hospitality power couple Mark and Millie Slade, has officially closed its doors for good. The restaurant, known for its unique take on West African jollof rice, barely made it to the 18-month mark before calling it quits.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the Slades broke the news to their "friends and valued customers." They wrote, "This is to inform you that Jollof by Jara has now officially closed its doors permanently." The couple didn't mince words about why they're shutting shop: "Due to multiple determining factors, especially the current state of the economy, it has become impossible for us to keep this part of our business going."
Jollof by Jara burst onto the Lagos dining scene in February 2023, setting up shop at 33 Fola Osibo Road in Lekki Phase 1. It quickly gained attention for its unique concept – a restaurant dedicated to celebrating different types of jollof rice from Nigeria, Ghana, and even Senegal. The place was more than just about the food; it was designed to be a family-friendly spot with a large open space and a kid's play area called Ronnie's Yard.
The restaurant's closure comes as a surprise to many, especially given its connection to the successful Jara Beach Resort, also run by the Slades. The beach resort, located about an hour's drive from Lekki Phase 1, has been a hit since its opening in 2019.
We reviewed Jollof by Jara not too long ago, praising its "authentic and really flavourful" Ghanaian jollof and the "smoky and so good" Nigerian version. The review also highlighted the restaurant's unique ordering system using QR codes and its warm, attentive service.
However, it wasn't all praise. The review pointed out some eyebrow-raising prices, like a "bare wrap of eba" for ₦1,500, and tiny portions that felt like "daylight robbery" for the price. These high prices might have been a hint at the economic pressures the restaurant was facing.
The Slades seem to be taking the closure in stride, ending their announcement on a note of gratitude: "We are incredibly grateful for your support." They also reminded customers that they can still find them at their beach resort, suggesting that while this chapter might be closing, they're not done with the Lagos hospitality scene just yet.
This closure comes on the heels of other recent shutdowns in Lagos' dining scene, painting a concerning picture of the city's culinary landscape. It's a tough reminder of the economic challenges facing restaurants in the current climate.
The closure of Jollof by Jara is another blow not just for jollof rice lovers, but for anyone who appreciates innovative dining concepts in the city. It's a loss that will be felt across Lagos' foodie community.
For now, Lagos diners will have to find their jollof fix elsewhere. And as for the Slades? We're keeping an eye out for what they might cook up next.