RSVP Lagos

RSVP opened in 2014 on Eletu Ogabi Street in Victoria Island and has become one of the city's best-known restaurants for a stylish night out. It is run by Pistachio Foods, founded by Nahi Halabi and his wife Mahi, and its industrial-luxury interiors and hidden bar draw on the restaurants of Prohibition-era New York. The kitchen serves American-inspired food, and the restaurant is included in the Discovery series of The World's 50 Best Restaurants.

The restaurant makes a point of cooking everything in house, with no preservatives, seasoning cubes or artificial colouring. Menus cover lunch and dinner, and there is also a breakfast menu and a children's menu, which makes RSVP more family-friendly during the day than its evening reputation suggests. The bar programme is a big part of the appeal, with signature cocktails that put modern twists on classics.

Behind the dining room is The Poolside, a more casual outdoor bar and lounge with music and entertainment. It is open only to guests aged 21 and over, and the management reserves the right of admission. On weekdays and Sundays The Poolside can be booked for private gatherings and corporate events, and groups of 15 or more can arrange a set menu in the dining room or a cocktail-style reception.

RSVP suits couples, groups of friends and business diners who want a polished setting, as well as visitors who enjoy cocktails. It is open every day from 11:00 until late. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are strongly recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings when the restaurant and poolside are at their busiest. Dress smartly in the evening.

If you are planning a special evening, book a table in the dining room first and then move to The Poolside for drinks, as the two spaces have quite different moods. Families should come earlier in the day, when the breakfast and kids menus are available. Check whether service charge and VAT are added to the bill.

Eletu Ogabi Street is in central Victoria Island, close to the main hotels and a short ride from Ikoyi and Lekki. Book through the restaurant's phone or WhatsApp line. If you want to try more of the group's venues, the same founders run Slow, another Victoria Island restaurant, and Z Kitchen and NOK by Alara are nearby for other special dinners.