If you find yourself in Ghana, the food is one of the biggest reasons to stay a while. Ghanaian cuisine is bold, flavorful, and full of history. Whether you’re dining at a street stall or a fancy restaurant, local ingredients and traditional methods make every meal an experience. From the iconic jollof rice to spicy soups, there’s always something to satisfy your taste buds.
Must-Try Dishes in Ghana
1. Jollof Rice
Jollof rice is a staple throughout West Africa, but Ghanaians claim theirs is the best. This dish, made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices, is often served with chicken or fish. You’ll find it everywhere: at street stalls, in home kitchens, and even fine dining spots. It’s the perfect combination of spicy and savory.
2. Fufu and Light Soup
Fufu is a starchy ball made with cassava, plantain, or yam, and it’s served alongside a variety of soups. Light soup is a thin, spicy tomato-based broth often paired with fish or goat meat. You eat fufu by tearing off a small piece with your fingers, dipping it into the soup, and swallowing it. No chewing allowed!
3. Banku and Tilapia
Banku is a fermented mixture of corn and cassava dough, which is then cooked into a smooth, tangy ball. It’s typically served with grilled tilapia, marinated with spices and served with hot pepper sauce. This is a common dish along the coast, and the contrast of flavors is a must-try.
4. Kenkey and Fried Fish
Kenkey is another fermented dough made primarily from maize. It’s wrapped in corn husks and boiled. Like banku, it’s usually eaten with fried fish and a spicy pepper sauce. This is a favorite street food option, and you’ll often see people selling it from big baskets on the roadside.
5. Red Red
If you’re vegetarian or leaning towards plant-based options, Red Red is a great dish to try. Made from black-eyed peas stewed in palm oil and served with fried plantains, it’s hearty and flavorful, with a subtle sweetness from the plantains balancing out the rich stew.
Popular Street Foods in Ghana
1. Kelewele

Spiced fried plantains, known locally as kelewele, are a favorite among Ghanaians. Plantains are cut into small cubes, marinated with a blend of ginger, garlic, and chili, then deep-fried. You’ll see people selling kelewele from street stands across cities like Accra and Kumasi. They’re often eaten as a snack or as a side dish to your meal.
2. Chinchinga (Kebabs)
Chinchinga, or Ghanaian kebabs, are common at street food stalls. Pieces of beef, chicken, or sausage are spiced with pepper, ginger, and other local spices before being grilled to perfection. These are easy to grab on the go, especially in the evenings when locals are out socializing.
3. Waakye
Waakye is a dish made with rice and beans cooked together, giving the dish a distinct purple color. It’s served with a variety of sides like boiled eggs, fried plantains, spaghetti, and spicy shito sauce. Waakye is often eaten as a breakfast dish but can easily be found at street stalls throughout the day.
4. Bofrot (Puff Puff)
Bofrot, also known as puff puff, is a deep-fried dough ball that’s slightly sweet and super fluffy. It’s a popular snack, especially in markets or during celebrations. It’s best enjoyed fresh and hot—perfect with a cup of tea or simply on its own.
5. Togbei (Yam Balls)
Togbei are mashed yam balls seasoned with onion, pepper, and other spices, then deep-fried. Crispy on the outside and delicious inside, they’re a popular snack. You’ll also see them served as sides in a lot of local restaurants. They pair well with spicy dips or sauces.
Regional Specialties
Northern Ghana
In the northern part of Ghana, you’ll find plenty of millet and sorghum-based dishes. One to try is ‘Tuwo Zaafi’, a smooth porridge typically served with a green leafy soup and meat. This dish is not as spicy as other Ghanaian foods, but the combination of textures is intriguing. Another dish you’ll find here is ‘Pito’, a locally brewed millet beer, popular in the north.
Western Ghana
Western Ghana is dominated by coastal dishes. Fresh seafood is common here, and ‘Etor’ is a ceremonial dish often made during important events. Etor is a yam mash mixed with palm oil and garnished with boiled eggs, avocados, and nuts. Sweet, soft, and savory, it represents celebration and togetherness.

Volta Region
The Volta Region has its own food culture as well. One standout is ‘Akple’, a thick porridge made from corn flour. It’s best eaten with okra stew, and you’re sure to find it in homes and at local eateries. This is a simple yet flavorful dish that is reminiscent of the everyday meals in the region.
Where to Eat in Ghana
Street Food Stalls
If you want the real taste of Ghana, head to the streets. Street food is everywhere, from cities like Accra to small towns along the coast. You can grab fufu, kelewele, or grilled tilapia. Food is sold right off carts or from makeshift open-air kitchens. Don’t miss Makola Market in Accra, where locals sell everything from kenkey to chinchinga, and the atmosphere is just as good as the food.
Local Markets
Local markets are another great place to eat. In addition to street food vendors, you’ll find fresh produce, spices, and locally brewed drinks like palm wine. The Cape Coast Market is a good place to explore—you can buy fresh fish straight from the ocean and even have it grilled for you on-site.
Small ‘Chop Bars’ and Restaurants
Chop bars are informal spots where you can get delicious, affordable local dishes. These are often family-run, and the portions are generous. Common chop bar dishes include fufu and banku, usually served with soup or stew. Try ‘Asanka Local’ in Accra for an authentic dining experience.

Fine Dining Options
For a more upscale experience, Accra has a growing fine dining scene. Look for restaurants that bring a modern twist to traditional Ghanaian dishes. ‘Bistro 22′ and ‘Santoku’ in Accra are known for their creative take on local cuisine, blending international techniques with local flavors. If you want a nice night out, these places are worth a visit.
Don’t Forget the Drinks!
Palm Wine
Palm wine is a traditional Ghanaian drink made from the sap of the palm tree. It’s not too strong and has a slightly sweet, earthy flavor. You can find it at bars or even buy some from markets. It’s also served in ceremonies and special gatherings.
Pito
Pito is a millet-based beverage popular in Northern Ghana. It varies in taste, sometimes sweet, sometimes a bit sour, depending on how long it’s been fermented. You’ll often find pito being sold out of calabashes in the north or at local bars.

Alvaro and Other Soft Drinks
If you’re not into alcohol, Ghana has some great non-alcoholic beverages too. Alvaro is a fizzy fruit-flavored drink that locals love. It’s a perfect refreshment, especially on sweltering afternoons. You can find it in most stores and restaurants across the country.
Final Tips for Eating in Ghana
Eating in Ghana is an adventure. Don’t be shy to try new things. Use your hands with most traditional foods, especially when you’re eating fufu or banku. Ghanaian hospitality means portions are big, so come hungry. And don’t forget: spicy is the default here, so if you don’t love heat, ask for less pepper!
When it comes to food, Ghana will definitely leave you satisfied, and maybe even craving more. Whether it’s street food or a fine dining experience, Ghanaian cuisine is vibrant and full of flavor.
Leave a reply