The word “vibrant” wouldn’t cut it for the city of Lagos, which is reputable for its electrifying social life. The city that never sleeps (as Lagos is fondly called) harbors some of
the best rooftop bars on this side of the Atlantic. Little wonder it is called the Center of Excellence. Rooftop bars and restaurants are springing up all over the city with beautiful aesthetics and matching menus to drool over.
There is something about rooftop bars in Lagos; could it be the feeling of being far away from all the chaos below or just the feel of drinking and dining close to the clouds? Maybe it has to do with the enchanting views of the city.
What we know for sure is that there’s only one thing to do when the weather hit hard on an evening in Lagos. Our advice? Find a rooftop bar and sip on your favorite cocktail. So pick up your wallets, choose your best Instagram filter, and take the elevators to the top floor.
Here are a few of our favorite rooftop bars in Lagos just for you…
#1. The Office Rooftop bar
Having well-seasoned plantains and snails while sipping on choicest cocktails anywhere in Lagos is delightful but doing it from the Office rooftop is truly magical. This bar is located on the 2nd floor of the Four Points by Sheraton Lagos hotel in the heart of Victoria Island. The mood is always set right with their skillful live band and this is just the right spot to spend your Friday and Saturday evenings, even through this holiday.
#2. The View Rooftop bar
View this post on InstagramA post shared by The View Rooftop | Twinwaters (@theviewrooftop_twinwaters)
The densely populated city of Lasgidi has nothing on this bar, it comes with such serenity you could meditate as would in a monastery. Ok, that may be a bit of an exaggeration but it really comes close. This bar is located at Twin Waters and without a drone you could have a dreamy view of the city. As expected of a high scale lounge, the management is extremely particular about dressing. So if you’re heading from the gym or your style inspo was from Kanye West, you might have to choose another day to visit. Don’t let that deter you for they have one of the best finger bites around.
#3. Lagos Continental Hotel
If you’re looking for a rooftop bar in Lagos with international standards where you will be treated like royalty, this is a spot that comes to mind. It has an eye-catching rooftop pool bar on the 5th floor and nothing beats sipping on a long island tea by the poolside while taking in the cool view of the lagoon.
The hotel towers above most of the structures in the vicinity so, if you’re scared of heights, you might want to sit this one out. Continental Hotel is the tallest hospitality building in Nigeria and we won’t be surprised if you let vertigo grab hold of you. But as they say, the higher, the better the view, although there is an elevator so you don’t have to bother about tiring out from using the stairs. The skyline view is exceptional as it offers a facade of being within reach. A great place to unwind after a day’s job and the WiFi here is rocket speed.
#4. The Autobiography
This is an African-themed lounge situated at Sangotedo, Ajah beside Novare Mall. Once art discussions are over you can get thinking about what to order — from a classic cocktail to lunch/dinner. The overall vibe is urban, upbeat, and sophisticated, with the bar offering different genres of music on special occasions like karaoke night every Thursday, House music X drum infusion on Saturdays, and Sunday brunch for the Fam.
#5. Rhapsody’s Ikeja
Ikeja city mall takes a different shape at night, where the shoppers go home and the party begins. The live band at Rhapsody’s Ikeja would make you lose track of time as you sip and sing along. This spot boasts the nightlife of the city and it is arguably one of the coolest rooftop bars in Lagos mainland.
#6. The Atmosphere Rooftop
The entrance of this spot is dotted with plants so you feel like you’re in a modern sky-high garden. There is a high chance of bumping into your favorite celebrity. Be selfie-ready as this spot is Instagram-worthy. If you’re a sports lover, this could double as a viewing center and a perfect spot to relax with your favorite drink, how best do we explain the large LED screen?
#7. Rue 80
This bar is at the rooftop of Maison Fahrenheit Hotel, open 12:00 pm-4: 00 am daily. Asides from the calming aura of the place, the Atlantic ocean serves as a lovely framework and they offer unique and exclusive cocktails. Don’t just take our word for it, try out the Maison special cocktail and unfailingly, their Mexican burger. The music is just right, especially on the weekends.
Tip: Don’t be so late, the parking space seems to be full during weekends (evenings).
Whether it’s a sky-high venue with stunning vistas or a cozy low-slung rooftop gem, dress codes vary by location, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Think “smart casual” and avoid looking like you just arrived from a gym party or you might find yourself sitting at the security post down at street level, phoning your friends and begging them to come down and join you at the beer parlor across the street. So dress appropriately, beat the traffic to catch enthralling sunset views, and while your time away through breezy evenings at these amazing rooftop bars in Lagos.
Featured image: The View Rooftop | Instagram
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