The Smiths

The Smiths is a cocktail room and upscale restaurant on Akin Adesola Street in Victoria Island, opened in 2023 by the twin sisters Kehinde and Taiwo Smith. Taiwo is the executive chef and divides her time between Chicago and Lagos, and the twins are also behind the Lagos venues Cafeteria and Maple. The Smiths combines a serious drinks programme with a full dinner menu.

The cocktail room is the heart of the venue. Bartenders mix classic cocktails alongside their own creations, often finished with custom cocktail toppers, and the bar area has a distinctive character that makes it a good place to settle in for the evening. Live music plays in the background rather than dominating the room, so conversation is possible, which sets it apart from louder lounges.

The kitchen serves a globally inspired menu that brings together Asian, Mediterranean and Latin American influences. A full evening of food and cocktails is priced at the upper end of the Lagos market. The interior is stylish without being flashy, which suits date nights and celebrations as well as after-work drinks with colleagues.

The Smiths works on a reservations-only basis, according to house rules the owners have shared on social media, so book ahead rather than turning up, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Dress smartly, as you would for an upscale restaurant. If you are mainly interested in cocktails, ask for seating in or near the bar when you reserve.

If you want to eat, book for dinner and allow a couple of hours, as the pace is relaxed and the drinks are meant to be enjoyed slowly. If you are only coming for cocktails, a reservation later in the evening is a good option. Mention celebrations and any allergies when you book. Check whether service charge and VAT are added to the bill, as practice varies between venues in Lagos, and keep your own ride home arranged before midnight on weekends, when demand for cars is high.

It suits couples, groups of friends and cocktail lovers who want a polished but relaxed night in Victoria Island. Akin Adesola Street is one of the island's main roads, close to many hotels and other restaurants, so The Smiths is easy to combine with dinner elsewhere or with a later visit to a club. Use a ride-hailing car to get there and back.