Restaurant
Marks at the Park
Japanese and Pan-Asian fine dining in Twenty One Park, Wuse 2, known for sushi, robata grilling, signature cocktails and private dining rooms for celebrations.
Istanbul Cafe & Restaurant
A Turkish restaurant and cafe at Jabi Lake Mall serving Turkish dishes and international favourites beside the lake, with live music and space for celebrations.
At a glance
- Type
- Turkish restaurant
- Area
- Jabi, Abuja, Nigeria
- Price
- $$$ · Upscale
- Opening
- Open daily · 10:00–23:00
- Official site
- istanbulrestaurantcafe.com
Good to know
- Lake views
- Live music
- Reservations
- Takeaway
- Catering
Why we recommend it
Istanbul Cafe & Restaurant was founded to bring Turkish food and hospitality to Abuja, and it has become one of the most popular places to eat at Jabi Lake Mall. Its founder, Hasan Yigit, also established Vento Furniture in the city, and the group runs a smaller express outlet at Nizamiye Hospital in Idu. The main restaurant sits beside Jabi Lake, which gives it one of the more pleasant settings of any mall restaurant in the capital.
The menu combines Turkish cooking with modern touches and dishes from other cuisines, so it works for groups with different tastes. Turkish restaurants of this kind are known for grilled meats, kebabs, mezze to share and sweet pastries such as baklava, with tea or Turkish coffee to finish; the full current menu is available through the restaurant's online QR menu, which is worth checking before you go.
The atmosphere is upscale but comfortable. Live music adds to the mood on some evenings, and the restaurant hosts celebrations and private events. It suits families out for the day at Jabi Lake, friends meeting after shopping, and couples who want dinner with a view of the water. Prices are in the mid-to-upper range for Abuja.
Istanbul is open every day from 10:00 to 23:00. Table reservations are taken and are a good idea on weekend evenings and for larger groups. Takeaway orders, private chef bookings and catering can be arranged through WhatsApp, which is handy if you are staying in serviced apartments nearby. If you want a table with a lake view, mention it when you book.
The express outlet at Nizamiye Hospital in Idu is useful if you are in that part of the city and want something quick, while the lakeside restaurant is the one to choose for a proper sit-down meal.
Jabi Lake Mall is in western Abuja, around 15 minutes by car from the Central Business District in normal traffic. Combine a meal here with a walk along the lake shore or a boat ride with Jabi Boat Club on Alex Ekwueme Way, and stay for sunset, when the lake is at its most attractive. Aura's rooftop lounge in Lake Square Plaza is nearby if you want a drink afterwards.
Istanbul Cafe & Restaurant FAQs
What are the opening hours?
Every day from 10:00 to 23:00.
What kind of food is served?
Turkish dishes with modern touches, alongside international options.
Can I book a table?
Yes. Reservations are taken, and booking is advisable at weekends.
Is there a view?
The restaurant is beside Jabi Lake at Jabi Lake Mall.
Is there live music?
Yes, live music is part of the offer on some evenings.
Can I order takeaway or catering?
Yes. Takeaway, private chef bookings and catering are arranged through WhatsApp.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes. It is a relaxed choice for families visiting Jabi Lake and the mall.
Are there other branches?
An express outlet operates at Nizamiye Hospital in Idu.