Nayo’s African Cuisine: Nigerian Comfort Food Finds a Real Home in Rogers Park

Let’s just admit it—most folks walking down Howard Street are still looking for a decent late-night taco or a reliable slice. But cross the threshold into Nayo’s African Cuisine, and suddenly, you’re a world away from the usual Chicago fare. If you’ve ever wondered who’s making egusi the way it’s meant to be made or wanted to dig into jollof that actually bites back (in a good way), consider this your sign to stop scrolling and start planning dinner. ## What You Actually Get at Nayo’s This isn’t Nigerian food filtered for “Chicago palates” or dialed-down for takeout. Anayo Nwajiaku and Chef Obianuju Ojike created a spot where “authentic” isn’t just a tagline; it’s the kitchen’s entire reason for being. The first time you order, odds are you’ll spot Egusi Soup—rich and silky, anchored by that signature melon seed thicc-ness—and Jollof Rice, deep and tomato-red, perfumed with fresh ginger, garlic, and enough Scotch bonnet to keep things interesting. Both are go-to’s, but here’s what regulars know: - **Fisherman Soup**: Bold, spicy, and exactly what January in Chicago demands—crab legs and fish bobbing in a peppery, zingy broth - **Okra & Ugba Soup**: Slippery, textured, seriously comforting—reminds you why okra shouldn’t just be a Southern side - **Isiewu and Nkwobi**: Goat head or cow feet done right—chewy, spicy, and real-deal Nigerian bar food vibes Don’t sleep on the snacks either: Meat pies so flaky they break apart in buttery layers, or a slab of Moin Moin (savory bean pudding) best dunked in sauce. Pile up those plantains—fried golden, with the kind of caramelized corners that taste like home, even if home is a thousand miles away. ## Good Food, Honest Atmosphere Nayo’s doesn’t feel like one of those “trendy” spots that’s more about design than dinner. Walk in, and it’s a low-key, lived-in space, sometimes bare bones, but warm where it matters. A young relative may answer the doorbell before you wander back to the open window to order, and you might even swap a story with Anayo himself about where you grew up or who made pepper soup better. That’s how it works here—less about white-tablecloth service, more about family, hustle, and the real pace of an African kitchen. Come hungry, maybe with a little patience, and you’re rewarded the second a steaming plate hits your table. ## Ordering and Eating: Pro-Level Moves Nayo’s keeps it flexible—lunch, dinner, late-night cravings (they’re open ‘til midnight most nights), dine-in for comfort, or takeout if you’re making a run before heading home. Pro tip: Certain dishes (fried rice, coconut rice) require calling ahead for group orders, so check the menu and plan if you want something special. **Location:** 1418 W Howard St, Chicago, IL **Hours:** Daily, morning until midnight **Order:** [Online shop](https://www.nayosafricancuisine.com/order-now) for pickup/delivery, or use Uber Eats/Grubhub **Contact:** nayoscuisines@gmail.com | (773) 807-7879 No shipping just yet—but delivery runs smooth, and pickup is easy (just buzz in at the door). ## Why It’s Different: Food as Culture, Not Just a Meal A night at Nayo’s can be more than dinner. Their Naija Nights pull in local DJs, there’s pop-up community events, and on certain evenings, someone might break into song. It’s a restaurant, sure, but also ground zero for serious Nigerian hospitality on the North Side. Vegetarians aren’t just getting stuck with random sides here—Moin Moin, okra stew, and custom plantain combos mean real options, not afterthoughts. And spice levels aren’t a joke. Ask for mild, and it’ll still be legit. Love heat? There’s enough Scotch bonnet to clear the sinuses. ## What Regulars Actually Say - *“Best African food I’ve found in Chicago—jollof, pepper soup, all on point.”* - *“Eggusi soup and Jollof were delicious. 100% recommend!”* - *“Meat pie lives in my head now, it was that good.”* - *“Bring a sense of adventure and maybe a little patience. It’s a real, low-key vibe, just how it’s done back home.”* Decor is evolving, and sometimes you’ll be waiting (the team’s often busy making stocks in the kitchen from scratch), but regulars swear that’s part of the charm. ## Know Before You Go - **Reservations:** Not needed—walk in (give a ring at the door if it’s quiet). - **Best Dishes for First-Timers:** Jollof rice combo (with fish or goat) or Egusi with fufu. - **Spice Levels:** They don’t play; start mild if unsure. - **Large Orders:** Call ahead for things like coconut rice—great for groups. - **Drinks:** Bottled water, canned sodas, and rotating house drinks—they might even offer you a sweet yogurt shake from the fridge. - **Vibe:** Cozy, community-focused, sometimes a little hectic but always genuine. ## Bottom Line If Chicago’s usual restaurant hitlist is starting to feel tired, Nayo’s brings a shot of fire, family, and true Nigerian flavor to Rogers Park. Show up as you are, stay flexible, and bring friends who appreciate food that tastes like it’s got a story behind it. Start with whatever the chef recommends that night and order an extra meat pie. Thank yourself later.