Marks at the Park

Marks at the Park is one of the most talked-about upmarket restaurants in Abuja. It sits within Twenty One Park on Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, the main dining and nightlife strip of Wuse 2, and is owned by Ameena Indimi Dalhatu. The kitchen describes its approach as Japanese technique applied to flavours from across Asia, drawing on ideas from Kyoto's sushi counters, Bangkok's night markets, Seoul's banchan and Hokkaido's charcoal grilling.

Sushi is the core of the menu, alongside dishes from the robata grill and a list of signature cocktails. Dishes the restaurant itself highlights include char-grilled lamb chops finished with toasted sesame and fire-grilled tiger prawns with chilli threads. Once a week the sushi team runs Sushi Nights, with omakase-style counter service and signature rolls, which is the best way to see the kitchen's precision at close quarters. Press coverage also mentions an all-you-can-eat format and happy-hour selections, so ask what is running when you book.

The restaurant is set up for occasions. Private dining and banquet rooms are available for parties, supper clubs and celebrations, and a chef's table seats up to twenty guests. Pool parties with Pan-Asian small plates and long cocktails, and themed soirees, run through the year. It suits couples, business dinners and groups marking a birthday, rather than a quick or budget meal; this is one of the more expensive places to eat in the city.

Marks at the Park opens every day from noon for lunch and dinner. Reservations can be made by phone, WhatsApp or email, and booking ahead is wise for Sushi Nights, weekend evenings and any private room. Smart casual dress fits the setting. If you have dietary requirements, mention them when you reserve.

For a first visit, order a mix of sushi and robata dishes to share, which is the easiest way to see the range of the kitchen. The bar's signature cocktails, including one finished with a red rose, make a memorable start to the evening.

Wuse 2 is a short taxi or ride-hailing trip from most central hotels, including the Transcorp Hilton in Maitama. The surrounding streets are full of bars and lounges, so it is easy to continue the evening nearby, for example at KICKOFF Sports Bar on Kumasi Crescent or at one of the rooftop venues along Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent.