Togo is a small West African country with a big culinary punch. Its rich flavors come from deep-rooted traditions, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. If you’re traveling through Togo, you’ve got to dive into the local food scene. From hearty stews to addictive street snacks, here’s what you should not miss when it comes to Togo’s food and where to find it.
Abloc – The Ultimate Street Food
If there’s one street food you need to try in Togo, it’s Abloc. These rice balls are a fast and affordable snack, loved by locals. Sold by street vendors, they can be found almost everywhere—especially after dark. The balls are usually served with a spicy tomato sauce, making them filling and delicious.
Keep an eye out for roadside stalls near markets or bus stations. These are usually where the best offerings are found. Don’t worry about trying to find a fancy spot for these—you want them straight from the vendor, sitting on a small stool, with the chaotic sounds of Togo’s streets around you.
Koklo Meme – Grilled Chicken Togo Style
Koklo Meme is grilled chicken marinated in a flavorful mix of garlic, ginger, and local spices. It’s usually paired with a spicy sauce made from tomatoes and chilies. This dish is a great introduction to Togo’s love for bold yet balanced flavors.
You can find great Koklo Meme at modest roadside grills. If you’re looking to settle into a restaurant, head to restaurants in Lomé like “Le Phenicien” or “Beluga,” where the dish is taken up a notch. The freshness of the chicken and the intensity of the spices will leave you wanting more.
Fufu with Sauce D’Arachide
Fufu is a staple dish of mashed starchy vegetables like yams or cassava. In Togo, it’s often enjoyed with a rich peanut sauce. This hearty combination is a local favorite and is one of those dishes that connects you to the country’s food traditions.
If you’re in Lomé, check out “Chez Brovi” for some of the best fufu served with peanut sauce. They prepare theirs with fresh ingredients and a homestyle touch. Outside of the capital, small local restaurants often offer this typical dish too.
Pâte – The Everyday Staple
Pâte is a kind of dough made from maize or cornflour that’s a common part of everyday meals in Togo. It’s soft, slightly chewy, and serves as the perfect companion to a variety of spicy, savory sauces.
In Togo, you’ll typically eat pâte with chicken or fish. A local favorite is pairing it with “sauce tomate,” a tangy tomato-based sauce. For some of the best Pâte, try “Akifufu” in Lomé, a no-frills spot where the food speaks for itself. Or head to “Rond-Point,” where locals go for great value.
Gboma Dessi – Spinach Stew
Gboma Dessi is a spinach stew that’s healthy and full of flavor. The spinach is simmered in palm oil and spices, then typically mixed with fish or sometimes beef. This dish is served with rice or pâte.
“Chez Alice” is a cozy spot to try Gboma Dessi. Popular with locals for its traditional Togolese dishes, this restaurant keeps the flavors authentic and the portions generous.
Akpan – Snack Like a Local
Akpan is a sweet and sour fermented corn pudding, usually served with fresh milk or sugar. It’s a popular street food snack in Togo and is often eaten during hot days to refresh and cool down.
You don’t have to look far to find vendors selling Akpan in plastic containers. Simply walk the streets, especially near markets. You’ll get a chance to feel like a true local while savoring the unique flavors.
Yovo Doko – Sweet Treats
No visit to Togo is complete without trying Yovo Doko. These are small, deep-fried doughnut balls that are both crispy and fluffy. They’re an easy, on-the-go snack that can be found at street food stalls and markets.
The best Yovo Doko often comes from vendors selling in front of elementary schools or around big gatherings. Vendors make them fresh, serving them warm and irresistible.
Local Restaurants You Can’t Miss
Chez Augustin
Chez Augustin is a local favorite in Lomé and for good reason: the seafood here is incredible. The grilled fish is perfectly seasoned, served fresh, and always hits the spot. You can pair it with traditional fufu or another side dish like spicy rice.
Located near the beach, this restaurant gives you both great food and an amazing view. It’s a popular choice for locals and travelers alike, so you’re always in good company.
Le Patio
Le Patio is a trendy spot in Lomé offering both local and international dishes. It’s one of those places where you can enjoy a good mix of Togolese specialties while also finding something familiar if you’re not feeling adventurous that day.
The outdoor seating adds to the experience, making it a relaxed space to enjoy cocktails and dinner. Their variety of grilled meats and fish, paired with local sauces, are top-notch.
Kokéta
Kokéta is the go-to spot when you’re in the mood for street food but want the comfort of a sit-down restaurant. Their version of grilled chicken (koklo meme) is one of the best in Lomé, and the fried plantains on the side give it that extra touch of Togolese soul.
This is a friendly spot in the heart of the city where the service is fast and the prices are reasonable. It’s a great place to experience the vibrant flavors of Togo without any fuss.
Insider Tips for Exploring Togo’s Food Scene
Street food is Togo’s heartbeat. Don’t shy away from trying food from local vendors. Hygiene is important, so always look for busy stalls. More customers usually mean fresher food.
If you want to explore beyond Lomé, head to smaller towns like Kpalimé or Sokodé. The local food remains authentic, and you’ll often find regional specialties that don’t always make it to the capital.
It’s also a good idea to brush up on some French food-related phrases. Many vendors and restaurant staff speak French exclusively. A simple ‘Bonjour’ or ‘Merci’ goes a long way towards getting the best experience.
Togolese cuisine doesn’t shy away from spices, so if you’re not used to heat, start slow. But don’t be afraid to ask for extra sauce or seasoning while you eat—it’s part of the fun!
Conclusion
From street bites to homestyle stews, Togo’s food scene is full of local treasures that will make your trip unforgettable. Dive into rich peanut stews, satisfy your cravings with crispy fried dough, or share a grilled chicken meal with locals. There’s something for every food lover in Togo.
Whether you’re dining at a small roadside stand or sitting down at one of Lomé’s best restaurants, one thing is certain: in Togo, you’ll leave with a full stomach and a love for the region’s incredible flavors.
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