Lost in Lagos Magazine April Issue

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by LOST IN A CITY

SpringFling Vol 1.03 April 2017

Our Family’s Awful Spring Clean

Spot of the Month 1089 Club & Lounge

Thing to do with Kids over the Easter break

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SPOT OF THE MONTH 1089 CLUB & LOUNGE

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RESTAURANT REVIEW LA BRIOCHE

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CONTENTS

by LOST IN A CITY

editor's note 03 feature article 06 spot of the month 08 #36 chocolates 11 gifting flowers 12 recipe of the month14 the top 10 22 holiday in nigeria 24 renewing & cleansing your skin 26 Kids on Easter Break 28 fashion tips 30 photo of the month 32 events 33 spring inyour step 36 the guide 40

FRONT PAGE IMAGE Tannaz Bahnam

lostinlagos.com

April Showers, Spring Fashion & Chocolate Eggs

We don’t consider Spring a significant seasonal change in Lagos however the rains have started so we need to think about what to wear, staying healthy and of course, the Easter holidays.

April is a celebratory month for me, first because it is my birthday and second because there is a holiday. We will have a long weekend over Easter and next month begins with May Day. Children are home from school. This gives you an opportunity to travel but if not there is also lots to do to keep them entertained in Lagos.

Though the rain may dampen some spirits it’s a great way to introduce a new wardrobe that takes inspiration from recent Fashion Weeks. Spring is also the time to revamp your New Year’s Resolutions and begin again. Go ahead, start a cleanse, get fit, try one of our recommended recipes, clean out your wardrobe or maybe just forget it all and enjoy some Easter eggs.

Enjoy your read and Happy Easter!

#LostinLagos #DiscoverLagos #ExperienceLagos Cheers!

Olamide

Olamide Udoma-Ejorh Editor-in-Chief Lost in Lagos Magazine

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LOST IN LAGOS Vol 1.3 April 2017 FOUNDER Tannaz Bahnam PUBLISHED BY Knock Knock Lifestyle Solutions, Ltd. PRINTED BY T&D Press LTD, www.tndpressltd.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Olamide Udoma-Ejorh EDITOR Mona Zutshi Opubor DESIGN NJ Africa CONTRIBUTORS Tannaz Bahnam, Mobolaji Sadare, Anthony Shishler, Malaika Najem, Cheraé Robinson, Joycee Awosika, Mona Zutshi Opubor SALES INQUIRIES info@lostinlagos.com

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Spring Fling

A bit about the Product of the Month:

Every month the Lost in Lagos team will be sent an item to test and comment on. These products will be anything from a tasty meal to a scoop of delicious ice cream, from a piece of furniture to a cute designer wallet. We are sourcing local businesses, shops and designers so I can tell you what’s new and hot in Lagos. This month in honour of our Spring issue, we tried a variety of invigorating beauty products and household accessories to add a bit of vibrancy to your body and home. I have selected three that are sure to delight.

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Black & Yellow danfo tray A useful and visually arresting tray that is pure Lagos.

This is a unique, well-crafted tray that has captured a classic Lagos street-scene and brings it into your home. The danfo bus signifies Lagos. Therefore this is not just a tray but also a momentous piece of art. This would make a great gift with or without the matching placemats and coasters. mamazi.co.uk

If you have a product you want us to test, let us know. We will try to get our hands on it so you know if it is right for you.

Taliah Waajid

Nourishing hair care with premium, high quality ingredients.

Being a lady with natural hair, Taliah Waajid speaks to me. I tried the Enhancing Herbal Conditioner. It is formulated without harsh chemicals to soften your hair after shampooing. The ingredients include Wheat Germ Extract, Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, and Walnut Seed Oil. These ensure your hair not only receives nourishment but also feels and smells great. www.nectarbeautyhub.com

Le Chat Nail Polish

Dare to Wear - Perfect Match La Fleur Collection

Perfectly colour coordinated gel polish line for your spring manicure and pedicure.

I love this because it is always hard to match your toes when you find a gel polish for your hands. And this collection is perfect for spring! The yummy, bright and pastel shades are fun and playful. They may feel a little childish due to the bubblegum colours and sparkles but they will match your spring wardrobe. www.nectarbeautyhub.com

A bit about me: I am a young, 30-something lady who loves Lagos and trying new things. From restaurants and exotic food, to experiencing new places and cities, I love new new! Having new businesses and companies pop up in Lagos on a daily basis makes Lagos exciting and a fantastic place to live, work and play.

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Spring Fling featured columnist Mona Zutshi Opubor

Our Family’s Awful Spring Clean I’ll be the first to admit it’s weird to advocate spring cleaning when spring is not an actual season in Nigeria.

In New Jersey—where I lived before moving to Lagos—spring cleaning made sense. As the earth thawed from the frigid slumber of winter, you threw open the windows to the mild April air. You hauled your carpets outside to beat the dust off of them. You laundered the thick duvet you slept under on cold nights. You cleaned cobwebs from the corners and scrubbed each surface until it gleamed.

Notice I am saying “you,” not speaking about myself. I never did any of those things because they seemed awfully difficult. Although I was 38- years-old, it was easier to sit in my house hoping a grown up would materialise to clean for me.

Aside from seasonal incompatibility, there are other reasons spring cleaning is problematic in Lagos. If we all waited until April to clean our homes, the entire city would choke to death from accumulated harmattan dust.

There is no thaw so does that mean we don’t need a yearly deep clean? I think we do. Whatever the climate, spring is considered a time of new beginnings.

The psychic baggage we’ve carried all year can be eliminated with a domestic overhaul. lostinlagosmagazine

I have modified the concept of spring cleaning since moving. In my household it’s our family’s time to look deep into our closets, pull everything out and consider what we want to hold on to and what we want to be rid of.

This is a terrible experience for everyone involved.

So much of what I own is aspirational: How can I part with my wrinkle cream? Yes, it's 10 - years-old and unopened but maybe if I keep it, I will use it and my face will stay unlined forever. And how can I give away the ski pants that last fit me before I had kids? I'm just one rotten hamburger away from E. coli, hospitalisation and then it's, "Hello, size 2, Mona is back."

After my recovery, I may even learn to snowboard.

Don't get me started on all the books in my bookshelf that I keep to seem like an intellectual. As far as I know, nobody has ever judged me for the literature I own but what if it happens? My unread coffee-table books on Indian art are far more impressive than Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, volumes 1 - 4.

I am too imaginative to throw anything away easily. I’m terrified I might need a stained old sheet for a toga party or that a freakish, unplanned pregnancy at age 65 will make me not only the world’s oldest mother but also angry to have discarded my maternity clothes.

I agonize over bras that gape, clothes I find uncomfortable, and shirts I bought on sale that are spectacularly ugly.

My husband doesn’t want to part with things because of his practical yet sentimental nature. He sometimes wades into a forgotten bin, locates a roll of Velcro and uses it for home repairs. When children are crying, he dives into closets searching for stray wires and mends broken toys. He will find a yellowed book that belonged to his grandfather and chuckle to himself as he reads the out-dated information.

Spring Cleaning may be the worst thing that happens to our family all year but still, we soldier on. Even though it’s not our strength, we are always glad once it is done.

There is a satisfaction one takes in organized drawers and closets. There is pleasure to be found in knowing exactly what you own and keeping only what you love.

Plus you can’t be any worse at it than we are. I urge you to give it a try.

My eldest daughter is unlike both her parents. She is a decluttering devotee. Every spring, she builds a mountain of her possessions and insists they no longer spark joy. Then when she needs to wear something other than her school uniform, we both stare into her empty closet in bewilderment.

My younger daughter is the opposite. She gathers things I’ve set out to donate and secretly brings them back to her room. That is why most days she can be found eating dinner in a fluffy bathrobe embroidered with her sister’s name, paired with my old high heels.

My son is game to clean out his room. This means he lazes on his bed, playing with all the long lost toys I have uncovered as I do the actual work. He is the only one of us who enjoys the process because he doesn’t lift a finger.

Mona Zutshi Opubor is an Indian-American and Nigerian short story author and memoirist.

Follow her on Instagram @mopals5

lostinlagos.com

GIVE IT A TRY!

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Spring Fling written by Tannaz Bahnam

1089 The soul of a club is in the music and the vibe it creates when you first walk in. Does the music make you move? Make you dance? Make you shake?

Opening on the 15th of April, 1089 Club and Lounge will be the newest and hottest club on the Lagos nightlife scene with two international resident deejays playing House, Naija and Old School music. Following in the footsteps of Auto Lounge, 1089 will cater to an exclusive clientele. This prestigious club, as its predecessor before it, will attract a sophisticated VIP crowd. Conveniently located at 1089 Adeola Odeku, just above Casper & Gambini Restaurant, it's an address you're not going to easily forget.

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Club & Lounge Be prepared to dance under the stars in this industrial chic club with multi-coloured fiber-optic lights shining down from the high ceilings. The bar is at the center of the club, with strategically placed seats perched overlooking the bar, giving you the best view from above. Oversized, colorful armchairs and seating areas give the otherwise dark club a dash of colour and bestow a regal air to anyone sitting in them.

The central bar will be home to mixologists who will be mixing from a menu of 30 signature cocktails. The finger food or small chops menu is great for an after-work stop but also curbs late night hunger pangs. 1089 opens its doors from 5:00 p.m. It’s ideal for a happy hour drink before heading home from work and is the perfect time to venture upstairs to their rooftop lounge.

The sleek rooftop lounge, Casper Terrace, is open all day, catering not only to the smokers at the smoke-free 1089, but also open for Casper and Gambini diners. Shisha smokers can also use the Casper Terrace to enjoy a shisha with their food and drinks. The Casper Terrace is a great transition spot. Begin here with an evening drink to get you in the mood for a night of dancing at 1089.

The champagne is flowing, the music is pumping, the crowd is hyped all ready for a night out at 1089.

1089 Adeola Odeku, Victoria Island, Lagos

lostinlagos.com

photos by Baingor Joiner Thedoozydiary.tumblr.com

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Spring Fling

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Spring Fling

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An Interview with

Sanne Steemers Chip Odina

Founders of Thirty Six Foods Nigeria

Easter is around the corner. That means it’s chocolate season! We met up with Sanne Steemers and Chip Odina of #36 Chocolates to talk about making and eating gourmet local chocolate.

So Sanne and Chip, tell us a bit about your love of chocolate. When and why did you start #36 chocolates?

We started working together in 2015 to show Nigeria and the world that good things can come from Nigeria. Chocolate is one of those good things. After a lot of experimenting, we have now established the company and are ready to scale up.

Why is the brand called #36 Chocolates?

We are inspired by the diversity of 36 states of Nigeria and we source ingredients from all over the country.

What type of chocolate do you make and what is your most popular?

We work with local ingredients. We draw inspiration from all 36 states of Nigeria.

We have used cocoa from Osun, Cross River, and Edo States. We spice things up with beautiful Nigerian ingredients like zobo. The most celebrated flavour is our dark chocolate with suya spice!

How are #36 Chocolates made?

Nigeria is one of the largest cocoa growing countries but most of it is exported as low quality cocoa. Cocoa is cultivated on small farms across the south of Nigeria.

We work with farmers and cooperatives who show a passion for the product, collaborating to improve the quality and flavour. After harvesting, the farmers ensure the cocoa is fermented and dried. Fermentation is critical in making high quality chocolate. The dried cocoa beans are transported to Lagos where we turn them into chocolate in our factory. Some things are not easy for chocolate production in Nigeria. The factory needs constant electricity because in this heat the chocolate melts. Step by step, we are solving these challenges.

Since farmers aren’t involved in the processing of raw materials, do they ever see the finished product? Do the famers you work with eat chocolate?

Many farmers have never tasted chocolate before and they often don’t even know what it is used for. Whenever we travel, we always bring chocolate for the farmers to taste. This is also the case for the female farmers we work with in Cross River State. They firmly believed that cocoa was used to make stout. It has a similar colour and bittersweet taste so it’s not a strange assumption. Tasting chocolate was a great experience for them and they loved it. We are now making a batch of chocolate with the cocoa we bought from these women. Next time we will bring them chocolate from their own soil.

What's the most unusual chocolate you've ever tasted?

We have tasted so many different chocolates. The white chocolate bar with carrot was probably the most unusual. The idea was for it to resemble a carrot cake.

Another unusual chocolate that tasted delicious was a milk chocolate with lavender.

When people are trying to be healthy, they stay away from chocolate. What are the health benefits of eating chocolate?

Cocoa has many components that are healthy e.g., magnesium, calcium, iron, copper, antioxidants. Dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage is a good treat even for people on a diet. Just make sure it is part of a healthy lifestyle. With a lower cocoa percentage, the other ingredients might not be as healthy. Many major brands replace cocoa butter with cheaper fats or add chemical flavours. We keep our chocolate natural and offer dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage.

What are your favourite things about working with chocolate?

The happiness we see in our customers. Who doesn't love chocolate? Chocolate is always well-received. We love the smiles!

Thanks, Sanne and Chip, it was lovely to meet you. Now I am craving chocolate so I think it is time to try some. If you want to know more about their chocolate journey and #36 Chocolates head over to @my36chocolates via Instagram.

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Spring Fling written by Malaika Najem Jewelry designer, food lover and co-founder of the Flower Shop Lagos

THE OF GIFTING FLOWERS

Flowers for a BIRTHDAY and VALENTINE’S Day

When giving flowers to a friend in celebration of their birthday, you want to select a flower that signifies friendship and happiness. Usually any type of yellow flower is perfect for such an occasion, particularly lilies, tulips, and dandelions.

For a significant other, consider a rose, marigold or red carnation.

As for Valentine’s Day, if you’re currently in an early relationship, beautiful lavender roses are perfect, as they signify enchantment. If you’re married, a bouquet of red tulips marks the occasion wonderfully or even the classic red rose!

Flowers for HIM

Flowers for a FUNERAL

When paying tribute to a recently deceased member of the family or loved one, larger arrangements of flowers are quite common. You want to choose a flower that signifies love and respect. The best flowers for this are lilies, roses, and chrysanthemums. You also want to select lighter and pastel-toned colours that radiate peace and calmness. Some people add one touch of a vibrant colour if they knew the deceased’s favorite colour and want to add a personal touch.

Flowers for A WEDDING or ANNIVERSARY

The flowers selected for a wedding are entirely up to the bride and can be anything she wants. Lilies are a favorite. For bridesmaids, consider choosing the same flower in a smaller bouquet. The boutonniere worn by the groom should match the flower of the bride.

When sending flowers to man, they tend to prefer strong shapes and bold colours and avoid pastels and very feminine colours.

Tropical-inspired flowers or plants are good choices for guys because they are easy to care for and can be placed in an office or at home.

Flowers for GET WELL

The flowers selected for a friend or acquaintances who is in the hospital or recovering from an illness should be a non-scented flower in case of allergies or counter-effects to any medications. Flowers such as an arrangement of irises, tulips or gladioluses are convenient.

Usually a nice bright colour can boost their mood.

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For a wedding anniversary, the flower should be different depending on the anniversary.

The five-year mark could be a daisy, while the ten-year anniversary might call for a daffodil. The iris is perfect for a 25-year anniversary.

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CARE TIPS FOR YOUR FLOWERS Check your flowers daily

Keep the vase, container or liner filled with fresh water. If you completely change the water, you should also thoroughly clean the container. Add fresh water mixed with a commercial fresh flower food. It's one of the best—and easiest—ways to extend the life of your flowers, but be sure to follow the directions on the package correctly.

Change their water, and add additional fresh flower food

Be sure to clean the vase before refilling it with room-temperature water mixed with the proper amount of fresh flower food. Flower foods contain the correct ingredients to properly nourish the flowers, keep bacteria at bay, encourage buds to open, and lengthen the life of the bouquet. Be sure no debris is floating in the water as this could promote the growth of bacteria, which can shorten a flower's life.

Re-cut their stems

Every few days, remove the flowers from the design and re-cut the stems. Remove 3/4" to 1 inch from the bottom of the stem and be sure to cut the stem at an angle to allow the flower the best chance to take up water. Use a sharp knife, sharp floral cutter or scissors.

Display flowers in a cool spot

Most flowers prefer temperatures between 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 22 degrees Celsius) and are best displayed away from direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents, directly under ceiling fans, or on top of televisions or radiators, which give off heat and can cause flowers to dehydrate. Avoid placing fresh flowers near ripening fruit, which releases tiny amounts of ethylene gas that can age them prematurely.

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Spring Fling written by

Alex Oke

lostinlagosmagazine

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APPLE FRANGIPANE TARTS Chef Alex Oke is a Canada-trained Nigerian chef, Miele chef partner and owner of XO Boutique Bakery in Lagos, Nigeria.

PASTRY CREAM

APPLE FRANGIPANE TARTS

INGREDIENTS 2 cups full cream milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pinch of salt 7 egg yolks 1/2 cup sugar 2 tablespoons corn flour 2 tablespoons butter

INGREDIENTS Pastry cream (see above) Almond cream (see above) Store-bought filo pastry Peeled, cored and halved apple or pear Melted butter Pinch of sugar DIRECTIONS Combine the almond cream with the cooled pastry cream to make a frangipane cream.

DIRECTIONS Boil the milk with vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Brush each layer of store-bought filo pastry with melted butter and drizzle with sugar.

Ideally you want 5 layers of filo. Cut the filo into six squares and place inside fluted tart shells or muffin tins.

Combine yolks, cornflour and sugar in a mixing bowl.

Whisk the hot milk mixture into the bowl of yolk/sugar/corn flour.

Fill halfway with frangipane cream and top with peeled, cored and halved apple or pear (as in the image).

Strain and return to low heat, whisking steadily until mix thickens.

Brush over with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar.

Add butter and emulsify into mixture with a whisk. Cover with cling film and cool in the refrigerator.

ALMOND CREAM

Bake at 200C until golden brown and crispy (about 25mins) .

Serve with ice cream, and enjoy!

INGREDIENTS 200g butter, softened 100g sugar 4 eggs 100g all purpose flour 250g ground almonds Pinch of salt DIRECTIONS Cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add room temperature eggs and mix slowly until combined.

Add all remaining dry ingredients at once and mix until combined.

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Spring Fling written by Niyi Williams

lostinlagosmagazine

lostinlagos.com

EGGS BENEDICT serves 2

INGREDIENTS

Niyi Williams Owner Operator at The Corner Food Truck Co-Founder of Foodies United & Guest Instructor at Culinary Academy

4 eggs 2 egg yolks 150g unsalted butter Juice of 1 lemon 200 grams beef mince 3 teaspoons maple syrup 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon ground sage 1 teaspoon Italian herbs 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper salt 2 English muffins (or 4 bottom halves of burger buns)

DIRECTIONS

To make the sausage patty, mix the beef mince, maple syrup, sage, Italian herbs, garlic powder and onion pow der. Form into 4 equal sized patties.

To make the hollandaise sauce, mix two egg yolks with the lemon juice in a bowl. Melt the butter then whisk the hot butter into the egg yolks slowly to form a thick, silky sauce. Season with the cayenne pepper and salt, as needed.

Toast your English muffins or buns.

Bring a pot of water to the boil. Crack a whole egg into a teacup and then drop the egg into the boiling water one at a time. Once all 4 eggs are in the boiling water, turn the heat down to a simmer and cook for 4 minutes.

Cook the patties in a frying pan with a little vegetable oil, about 90 seconds per side.

To build your breakfast, place the sausage patty onto one of the toasted buns, followed by the hot poached egg. Top generously with hollandaise sauce and garnish with dill

EGGS FLORENTINE serves 2

INGREDIENTS

4 eggs 2 egg yolks 150g + 1 teaspoon unsalted butter Juice of 1 lemon 4 cups spinach leaves 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper salt 2 English muffins (or 4 bottom halves of burger buns) spring onion

DIRECTIONS

To make the hollandaise sauce, mix two egg yolks with the lemon juice in a bowl.

Melt the butter then whisk the hot butter into the egg yolks slowly to form a thick, silky sauce. Season with the cayenne pepper and salt, as needed.

Cook the chopped spinach in a pan on high heat with 1 teaspoon butter and 1 teaspoon tap water for about 2 minutes and then remove from heat and leave in the pan to wilt. Season with salt, as needed.

Toast your English muffins or buns.

To build your breakfast, place the wilted spinach onto one of the toasted buns, followed by the hot poached egg. Top generously with hollandaise sauce and garnish with finely sliced spring onion

Bring a pot of water to the boil. Crack a whole egg into a teacup and then drop the egg into the boiling water one at a time. Once all 4 eggs are in the boiling water, turn the heat down to a simmer and cook for 4 minutes.

photo by Rachelola Photography www.rachelolaphotography.com

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Spring Fling written by Sekemi Braithwaite

La Brioche For someone as brunch obsessed as me, not many places meet my standards.

La Brioche isn’t alluring on the outside. It's plain and easy to miss if you don’t already know it’s there. Once you walk in, you’re greeted with the homey smell of pastries and a bakery-style display of all that’s available.

The actual dining area is rather small. If you intend to go on the weekend, I’d suggest booking in advance because seating is limited. This isn't necessarily a bad thing. It makes it easier for the owners to ensure quality control over meals because the staff isn’t attending to too many customers at a given time.

The tables are set with gold-plated cutlery, pretty white tablecloths, white doilies as placemats and white teacups. I wish that the teacups were ornate as well but they use basic ones. It doesn't take away from the ambience but certainly would have added to it.

I'd booked in advance so once I sat at my table, a basket of assorted bread including freshly baked croissants and baguettes was placed in front of me. I ate these while waiting for my meal to arrive.

On this visit, Le Classique was my chosen meal. It is La Brioche's take on the classic English breakfast. It comes with two eggs cooked to your taste, a slice of brioche bread, the sausage of your choice, diced breakfast potatoes, baked beans and a tomato slice.

I thoroughly enjoyed my meal. I'm not one for tomatoes so I skipped those but everything else was a dream.

The brioche bread was freshly baked so still quite hot and soft. The breakfast potatoes were well seasoned and perfectly cooked. The eggs were indeed to my taste.

I asked for over easy eggs and that’s what I received, firm fried eggs with a runny yolk. Le Classique was well worth the N3500.

The only thing I had a problem with was the sausage. I haven't enjoyed pork sausage in Lagos so I chose chicken and it wasn't great. It's nothing a supplier swap can't fix.

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I also ordered the Fruit Bowl to accompany my meal and let me tell you, it was rich.

You can’t find many places in town where you get a vast array of fruits for N1,000. La Brioche's Fruit Bowl came with pineapples, watermelon, strawberries and blueberries.

It was deliciously fresh and well worth the price.

photo by Rachelola Photography

To wash the food down, my drink of choice was the Pineapple and Ginger Juice, which was freshly prepared. It was wonderful.

The ginger could easily have overwhelmed the taste of the pineapple. It's a mistake many make. This one was a perfect blend of pineapple and ginger. It was served in a small pitcher, which makes you feel like you’re getting more value for your money, and indeed you are.

On this Sunday, the owners came to let me know they'd recently started making and selling their own honey, which is hand-extracted.

They let me taste the three types of honey they have available: light, medium dark and dark honey. They were all divine and I simply couldn't leave without a jar of my favourite, the medium dark honey with floral undertones.

One more second at La Brioche would have required me to be rolled out on my side like the overweight boy in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. A happy Sunday indeed!

As you can see, fresh is a word I used to describe every item I ordered.

If you haven't been to La Brioche yet, what are you waiting for?

La Brioche is one of few restaurants where you'll never feel like you've wasted your money. It's a fine place to have breakfast or brunch, which happens to be served all day. Reminiscent of a Parisian Bistro, La Brioche serves as a reminder that good things do exist in Lagos.

22 Musa Yaradua Street, Victoria Island, Lagos t: +234 8188421861

Sekemi is a graduate of the University of Edinburgh and the Nigerian Law School.

She is freakishly obsessed with Harry Potter and even more so with clean hands. She is the Founder of Shay’s Treats, a natural skin care company focused on providing something for everybody but she writes, reads and watches TV shows in her spare time. She also spends her working hours daydreaming about her first love – FOOD. Sekemi is not a food critic, just a food lover, so take her opinions with a grain of salt.

lostinlagos.com

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Spring Fling columnist Banke Makinde Lost In Lagos

Everyone loves a lazy Sunday. Whether you’re recovering from a crazy Saturday night or capping off an early morning church service, you just want to sit back, relax and stuff your gob!

Here is a list of some of the top brunch buffet spots to visit in Lagos on a Sunday, in no particular order.

The George Da Vinci

12:30pm – 4:00pm N16,900

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The hosts with the most! This elegant and effortlessly chic space has a brunch selection to salivate over. From their live band to their meat carving station, this place has it all with a dessert station to match!

Southern Sun Southern Sun Restaurant

11:30am – 4:30pm N8,000

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Grab your kids and head to the Southern Sun brunch. Armed with your Sunday best and an appetite to match, head down to buffet where the food is hot, hearty and delicious!

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Eko Hotel Sports Café

12:30pm – 4:00pm N12,000

These guys know how to do brunch right. For years they have been serving us good food and great vibes!

Enjoy your meal and your match as you have a drink or two with these seasoned players.

hotels.ng

Intercontinental Hotel Ekabo Restaurant

12:30pm – 4:00pm N13,500

This welcoming restaurant nestled in the corner of this grand hotel offers a delicious selection of brunch goodness.

With a sweet serenade from the live band to the fresh selection from the pasta station, you’re guaranteed to have a pleasant experience.

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Four Points Brazzerie

12:00pm – 4:00pm N10,500

Enjoy the exquisite brunch selection at Brazzerie and experience a mix of top quality local staples and international dishes to satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to try the pasta station where you can design your pasta to your taste.

lostinlagos.com

Federal Palace

Explorers Restaurant

12:30pm – 3:30pm N8500

Try the lunch selection at Explorers Restaurant where you can sample Nigerian, Asian, European and even Middle Eastern culinary delights in their ever changing buffet.

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Sheraton Crockpot

12:00pm – 3:30pm

Protea Hotel Ikeja

N9,500

Savour the delicacies of the Crockpot brunch. With live jazz band, an ice cream station for the kids, a salad table and a carving station, there is definitely something to catch your fancy!

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8 10 Ruby Restaurant

12:00pm – 3:00pm N9,500

Whether you choose to sit in the informal lounge or the beautiful courtyard, there is more than enough space to relax and try a delicious selection of local and international cuisine.

Wheatbaker Hotel

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Saraya Deli

12:00 pm– 4:00 pm N11,500

Try the vibrant Saraya Deli, where they cater to both the Nigerian and continental palate with their extensive buffet. With a fun, fresh atmosphere and food to match, you’re sure to have a dining experience to remember.

Renaissance Ikeja Lyeruokin

12:00pm – 4:00pm N9,500

This beautiful space is complemented by an equally exquisite selection of fresh foods. Have your pick from their buffet bar but don’t neglect to enjoy the wonderful drink selection.

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Spring Fling written by

Cheraé Robinson

Founder of Tastemakers Africa

HOLIDAY IN NIGERIA Let’s face it, if it were up to us we’d all spend every weekend jet setting from country to country with bubbly in tow.

Unfortunately real life is filled with work and family commitments, lack of funds, and even tricky-to-obtain visas that prevent us from living la vida loca like we’d prefer.

With a little planning and a willingness to push your thinking on what a vacation really means, Lagos can actually be an escape on its own. Have you ever considered having a staycation in our very own city? Here’s the play by play to getting re-energised in less than 36 hours in Las Gidi.

FRIDAY 6:00PM Every great vacation must include a great place to lay your head after the night is done. We suggest booking a room overlooking the lagoon at the Radisson Blu Anchorage or The Federal Palace. These hotels are secluded enough to feel like you’ve gone out of town but close enough to have access to everything you’d want to explore over the weekend.

8:00PM Now that you’ve checked into your weekend abode, had a shower and freshened up, it’s time to eat. Vacation meaIs are usually a super splurge or something local and fantastic. Your staycation meals should follow the same ethos. We suggest skipping a traditional restaurant dining experience and snagging a seat at Chef Benedict Okuzu’s private dining table. From Genovese ragu with pork belly to dark chocolate gelato with pistachio sand, all against a beautiful backdrop, this is how you elevate your dining experience.

11:00PM Make yourself at home at the hotel bar before stealing away to sleep or head out to one of Lagos’s many nightlife spots until the sun comes up. Our faves for a Friday are D’Place in Lekki, Escape in Victoria Island, and The Vault in Victoria Island.

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SATURDAY 10:00AM Prepare to get your namaste on at beachside Naija yoga taught by California-trained Yogini, Nsa Ntuck. You’ll take a short boat ride to Ilashe beach and spend your morning in ritual poses, opening your energy to the sound of waves crashing. Have a vegetarian or pescatarian lunch with Nsa right on the beach and you will forget you are in one of the most hectic cities on the planet.

After your chakras are aligned make your way back to your “home” for the weekend for a little rest and relaxation before heading out for a magical evening.

05:00PM Haven’t gotten enough of those Island vibes? it’s time to take it up a notch. Rent a yacht directly from the Radisson or from the boat launch next door to the Oriental Hotel. As you set sail, enjoy some champagne and berries before watching the sunset from the Lagoon. You’ll make your way to Tarkwa Bay and end up at a beach BBQ replete with cocktails and tunes before returning to your hotel well into the evening.

9:00PM Now that you’ve spent your day enjoying, head back to your hotel for a massage and some relaxation before turning up again this time at Quilox, Nitro, or 57.

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SUNDAY 11:30AM After enjoying some much needed sleep and maybe a “hair of the dog” cocktail overlooking the Lagoon, it’s time to enjoy a boozy brunch at the best place for chicken and waffles in Lagos, Craft Gourmet by Lou Baker. The variety of champagne blended cocktails, the divine menu, and the unique view of Lagos’s old Brazilian quarter will ignite all the vacation vibes you need.

02:00PM

Ywaffles A D UN n &

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End your staycation with a bang by heading out to Pop Beach Club in Ilashe. Akin, the owner, will greet you with a smile. Funky yet luxe, you could literally stay here and never want to leave. On the weekends Pop Beach Club is flush with people looking to escape the Gidi hustle and this beach members club does not disappoint. They boast daytime deejays, guest chefs, and even some wellness activities. It’s the perfect place to round out your staycation and forget that you actually have to return to real life by Monday morning.

www.tastemakersafrica.com

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Spring Fling written by

Joycee Awosika

Chief Innovator & Founder for ORÍKÌ

Renewing & Cleansing your Skin What would you say is the perfect spring cleaning routine for your skin?

I’d say a facial, of course. Facials involve the exfoliation of dead skin cells, soothing steam to open up pores, extractions to remove blackheads and other blemishes that clog the skin, and a rejuvenation finale comprised of a mask or peel to either hydrate or peel the skin.

A facial is one of the most refreshing, relaxing routines for skin care. Now let’s quickly debunk the popular notion that facials are just for women! Men also need routine facials and are highly advised to incorporate them especially because a man’s skin is tougher than a woman’s.

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THE LIFE CYCLE OF A FACIAL

DIFFERENT TYPES OF FACIALS

Stage 1: Once you have a facial, your skin instantly has a healthy glow that is noticeable.

As a skincare expert, I believe in the potency and efficacy of natural products. I recommend you utilize a bespoke approach and choose a spa that tailors your facial options by skin type and concern. I suggest a facial done with best selling products, guaranteeing you the option for excellent aftercare.

Stage 2: Over the next 2-3 days, your face is well hydrated because your circulation has been boosted. This helps your skin stay healthy and fight blemishes.

Stage 3: Over the next 28-48 days, your skin cells regenerate quickly; this is the long-term effect of facials.

Stage 4: After 4-6 weeks, it’s time to book your next facial to remove the layers of dead skin cells and impurities and start the cycle of healthy, radiating, glowing skin again!

Acne prone skin

A purifying facial is ideal for acne prone skin and those desirous of an ultra deep cleanse. I’d opt for a gentle foam cleanser with green tea, coupled with licorice mattifying cream and alfalfa leaf shine control serum to reduce the production of sebum, which is the oil excreted from our face. Top this off with an absorbing clay mask to remove impurities and dry out excess oil from the surface of the skin.

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Aging skin

For aging skin I recommend a facial adapted specifically to mature skin. An expert aesthetician can recommend and craft the right facial for you based on your unique skin concerns be it fine lines, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, dark circles and more. At an excellent spa, no two facials have to be the same.

Dry/Dehydrating Skin

Dry skin is often synonymous with sensitive skin. I would guide clients to a tender, soothing facial to restore and draw moisture to the surface of the skin while treating and achieving an even tone. For example, use a mild oatmeal cleanser and an ultra nourishing avocado mask. Finish up this facial with Vitamin C toner, which is great for restoring the pH balance of the skin.

MEN’S FACIAL Brightening/ Vitamin C Facial

In a harsh climate with penetrating sunrays, this facial is designed for those with hyper-pigmented/combination skin. Vitamin C, a natural brightener, works systematically to brighten and create an even skin tone.

As I mentioned, men must not be left out. A men’s facial provides relief for razor burn and skin irritation, using products that hydrate and moisturize the skin. With the use of the cedar wood moisturizer and a 2-1 exfoliating scrub, this facial penetrates the skin and corrects blemishes.

Now you have it: a facial is a must for a healthy skincare routine. Book yourself a facial today for the ultimate in cleansing and renewal.

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Things to do with kids over the Easter break

Easter Holidays are here which means there are going to be a lot of bored boys and girls stuck at home.

How can you possibly keep them entertained?

This is a question most parents stress over every time their kids go on break. Those of us who work, who can't travel or who are feeling economic pressures have to get creative.

Whether the sun is shining or there are torrential downpours-as can be expected as we enter rainy season-there is no excuse.

You just need to know the options.

So here are a few:

Indoor Paint and Bake http://royalteas.com.ng/paintandbake/ Get your creative juices flowing at Paint and Bake studio at Cafe Royal in Victoria Island or their Lekki branch. You can spend an afternoon painting different items of pottery, having lunch and if you book in advance, even making cookies. But you will have to wait a week before you pick up your final painted masterpieces as they need to be baked!

GET Arena indoor games/wall climbing http://www.getng.com GET Arena is known for Go Karting but did you know they also have a gaming arcade and wall climbing in their Goonies section?

It's a fun place to visit and grab lunch. If the kids aren’t ready to head home, we recommend you continue down the street to the Palms for a movie, another great activity when the sun isn't shining.

Mindscapes Children's Museums http://mindscapesmuseums.org This is a fun, interactive museum for children with real-life scenarios where kids can role play. They also have a toddler section so don’t leave anyone at home. If the weather is pleasant, they have a nice outdoor playground as well, but it can get quite hot.

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Outdoor Omu Resort http://www.omuresort.com/Nomu/index.html Save a whole day for an outing at Omu Resort as it's quite far away but has lots of activities. The resort boasts a zoo, a waterpark, mini golf, horse riding and many other activities that are great when the sun is shining. You can easily spend the entire day there, just make sure to bring sun lotion.

LUFASI Park Nature Park http://www.lufasi.com Lekki Urban Forest and Animal Sanctuary Initiative, LUFASI, is a great urban park where you can spend time outdoors in a lush green space with a children's playground, a mini-zoo with monkeys and paths to hike. Bring the kids bikes and let them enjoy the freedom to roam. Pack a picnic to make a whole day of it and don't worry, the shade from the trees means it won't be too hot.

Apapa Amusement Park http://www.apapapark.com Having reopened its doors in 2016, Apapa Amusement Park has become one of the most popular destinations for kids and adults alike. With lots of rides and activities, both indoor and outdoor, this is a great place no matter the weather. They also have a food court, so you won't go hungry! But be ready to queue to get in on public holidays because everyone is looking for a way to keep the kids entertained.

For more ideas on what to do with the kids, visit the PLAY tab on www.LostinLagos.com.

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Spring Fashion In Lagos, it’s hot all year round and fashion is always a big deal. Whether you shop online or in major stores, you buy from local or international high end designers or you get clothes made, spring is the time for transition.

Maybe your transition is spurred because you have discarded your old clothes or perhaps because the season has changed. Whatever the case, now is the time to look at what is happening around the fashion world and decide what looks to channel and what statement you plan to make with with your clothes this Spring and Summer.

Fashion Buyer, Mobolaji Sadare, and Fashion Stylist, Bella Adeleke, share their knowledge on spring fashion in Lagos.

In the northern hemisphere-or anywhere above the equator, really-it’s spring! But here in Lagos, what we have at the moment is a cross between sweltering heat and torrential downpours. And even with the rain, it can still be unbearably hot. Dressing for this predicament might bring out the lazy in us, tempting us to grab the lightest thing in our closets and hope for the best. But don’t give up on looking smart. It is possible to dress for the tropics.

Those of us in Lagos know that during the rainy season, flash rains can happen at any time in any place. The rain doesn't care that you have your favourite suede shoes on. Always check a weather app the night before so you have an idea of what to expect. More often than not, it is always hot regardless of whether it rains so dressing in light layers helps. That way, should the weather change on you, you can adjust accordingly.

What would spring fashion be without florals and pastels?

Those are a staple but nevertheless it’s always fun to work the latest trends into your daily wardrobe. Spring/Summer fashion season 2017 was filled with all kinds of easily adaptable trends, some of which you might already have hanging in your closet: a variety of stripes (nautical stripes, pinstripes, seersucker, banker stripes), ruffles, cold shoulder blouses and exaggerated sleeves. So run to your trusty, neighbourhood obioma and get him to sew a variety of styles in your favourite fabrics. lostinlagosmagazine

TIP TIP TIP TIP TIP

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DRESS FOR THE WEATHER CHOOSE LIGHT FABRICS WORK IN SOME TRENDS ALWAYS CARRY AN UMBRELLA AND A HAND FAN BE COMFORTABLE

Wearing the right fabrics is also super important. It is hot so choose light fabrics so you don't die on the line. Think cottons, chiffons, and rayon, etc. Linen was made for the Nigerian climate but many people avoid it as it wrinkles easily even though that is part of its allure.

Believe it or not, polyester is magical. Gone are the days when polyester had a bad rap as a cheap, unacceptable fabric. These days at least 80% of our clothes are polyester or a polyester blend. And technology has gotten so good, most people can’t tell the difference between it and other fabrics it imitates. That being said, fabrics that are a cotton/polyester blend are perfect to take you from cooler weather to crushing heat.

Make sure to stay away from heavier fabrics like satins, silks, wool (unless it’s worsted) as these have no breathing room and will trap heat.

No one likes a sweat patch. If denim is too hot for you, go for lighter versions like chambray.

Ever been caught in a heatwave and insulted yourself for being unprepared?

Get yourself a hand fan and a pocket umbrella and you’ll never be unprepared for bipolar Lagos weather ever again.

Quintessence has some cute ankara print umbrellas, while hand fans are available in markets in Lagos Island or, you know, at any owambe party or wedding.

Last but not least, be comfortable.

When you are comfortable, you can walk, talk and think at ease. When you are at ease, you are confident. When you are confident, you can own the day and give everybody shakara. So go forth and pepper dem. written by

Spring Fling

lostinlagos.com

An Interview with Bella Adeleke

Managing Director of MeiDei Creative Director of Mr Garbe & Editor in Chief of Bold Africa magazine

STEP INTO SPRING It’s spring but it’s also rainy season. What are the fashion must haves?

A trusted pair of blue jeans, smart trainers, ballerina pumps, shirts--preferably oversized--a tote, an umbrella, sunglasses and a scarf or turban for days you get soaked in the rain and you need to look glam on a whim.

When it comes to trousers should they be tailored and tight or loungy and loose?

It all depends on your mood and the occasion. Tight and fitted can be perfect for someone who is going for a smart, sharp or perhaps edgy look.

For example, you would wear tailored, fitted trousers to work, meetings, on a date or out to the club. Loungy is relaxed and somewhat bohemian which would be more appropriate for a casual or relaxed setting in my opinion.

Is this the season for patterns, stripes or block colours?

Personally I think patterns, stripes and block colours transcend through seasons. It is how you incorporate them into your personal style each season that matters.

What's your ideal look for a spring night?

Shorts! High--waisted loose--fitted shorts. You can play it cool with an oversized boyfriend shirt, statement jewels and clutch. This makes up for the excessive legs on show. Or go all out and team it with a bodysuit, sheer blouse and killer heels.

For us living near the equator does it make sense to follow New York, London and Paris since our seasons are very different?

Yes and No. No, because these seasons are created for fashion designers to showcase, trend spotters to correlate what seems cool and influencers to show the masses how it is done. In Nigeria, we do not have established or well defined trend structures. Yes, because we are still coming into our own. Although it is easier to follow an already established system, most of the trends forecasted in these shows can be applied or infused into the fashion scene in Lagos. It is the infusion and influence of the lifestyle in Lagos that generates our own unique trends.

What do you love about Lagos Fashion?

And for the men, any fashion advice on what to be seen wearing during the Easter Holiday?

Easter in Lagos is synonymous with heading down to the beach with friends and family. I would suggest embracing colour and linen. A lot of guys shy away from wearing tailored, thigh--hugging shorts in Lagos. I am here to tell you it is absolutely okay to rock those shorts. Live a little. Bring a little bit of Ibiza to the shores of Lagos. The ladies will love you for it as long as you remember to team it up with loose--fitted shirts and not body--hugging tees.

Its vibrant eccentricity.

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Spring Fling

Compelling images highlighting Lagos

About the Photographer Joel Adu is the Creative Director and Head Photographer at Joel Adu Studios. He is a Lagos-based photographer with a wealth of experience in shooting food, portraits and events.

He is also known to be passionate about great food so it’s little wonder he he enjoys shooting food. joeladu234@gmail.com @joeladu_

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this month‌

To list your event email info@lostinlagos.com

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9 8 7 6 5 4

Looking back at our top images of February 2017 Follow us on Instagram @lostinlagos12

We loved exploring @lufasipark this week.

It’s a great spot for a picnic with your family.

@rsvplagos has a fresh new look in time for Valentine’s Day

We had an amazing time @chakaresorts The beach-front is so serene and beautiful.

Food that makes you forget about your healthy eating New Year’s resolution @utopialagos

In my hand, pistachio, salted caramel and strawberry (Niyi's takeover)

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You can officially call us coffee addicts. Monday morning fix.

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Cocktails @shirolagos yesterday. They all tasted as yummy as they look.

We totally enjoyed our visit to @renikeja today.

Niyi's page takeover

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We are a team of Interior Designers, Architects and Graphic Designers working together to expand the creative possibilities of Innovative ideas and Luxury Designs.

6, Saka Tinubu Street • Victoria Island Lagos State, Nigeria • T + 234 (0)813 200 0003 emails rashaj@nj-africa.com / diana@nj-africa.com / info@nj-africa.com

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Spring Fling written by Anthony Shishler

SPRING IN YOUR STEP Life is about constant, predictable patterns of change. We cannot change the seasons but we can change ourselves. Isn’t that fun? The evolution of self-value and productivity is a journey worth exploring. Now that spring is upon us, there’s no better time to begin.

So let’s spring to it!

Spring refers to the season and also to ideas of rebirth, rejuvenation, renewal, resurrection and re-growth. Summer, winter, and fall may have their fans, but spring is clearly the best season, or the most agreeable, at the very least.

As far as boutique hotels are concerned, spring is a time of fresh designs, bespoke new menus, and what’s hot or not. Besides celebrating newness, boutique hotels use spring as a springboard to announce their product to the world and set their calendars for the year.

It is our season to innovate and keep up with ever-evolving trends.

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Before the question of how and where to celebrate spring properly is raised, here are a few reasons why spring is always a good time to be part of the lifestyle and hospitality world.

Spring marks the end of blistering cold and the transitional period to scorching summer. The earth's axis is angled between its closest and farthest position from the sun when temperatures are the most extreme.

You can finally ditch the cold layers.

You can take a walk, read a book in the courtyard, take a swim in the pool or just enjoy fresh, clean air.

Following the spring equinox, when the earth’s horizon is perfectly aligned with the sun, the days begin lasting longer and the nights grow shorter.

That means you have more time in the day to get things done. Exposure to sunlight increases the hormone, Serotonin, in your brain, which makes you feel happy. That will surely put a smile on your face.

Exposure to sunlight decreases the chemical, melatonin, in your body during the day and increases it at night, which helps you sleep better.

To further enhance that surge of energy, eat a breakfast of champions or order up a selection from a luxuriously decadent menu.

Spring brings growth back to plants and trees. A successful spring leaf growth ensures a cool canopy to relax under during the hot summer. Smell the fresh green foliage from the balconies; the view will be worth it.

After staying dormant all through the cold winter and conserving energy underground, many fruits and vegetables sprout in the spring. There is nothing more pleasant than eating a peach right off a tree or just enjoying a slice of pineapple off the fruit platters at dinnertime with us.

From discounted room-stays to special Easter menus and discounts, look out for Easter promotions that will quench your thirst for affordable luxury. The simple essence of indulging oneself will make you and your significant other feel special, appreciated and rejuvenated.

What more can we say?

Here’s to a great spring and an amazing Easter celebration!

lostinlagos.com

Anthony Shishler Managing Director Fahrenheit Hospitality Ltd.

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Spring Fling

RESTAURANTS

HOME & GIFTS

MIND & BODY

SHOP

PLAY

SERVICES

Art Cafe

Terra Kulture

HSE

Cafe Royal

This quaint, retro cafe crowning the Homestore is home to some of the best coffee in Lagos. It serves all types of coffees, homemade baked goods and a nice selection of sandwiches. From their lamps to the vintage signs on the walls, if you like anything in the cafe, it’s all for sale!

Terra Kulture is the home of Nigerian arts and crafts and, of course, mouth watering Nigerian meals. I must say that they have amazing cheesecake too. But they are more than just a gallery, restaurant, theater and bookshop. They are a true cultural phenomenon.

HSE Cafe is a boutique cafe in Lekki Phase 1 serving gourmet comfort food. Our dishes are deliciously different.

No. 282 Akin Olugbade Street, Victoria Island, Lagos t:014610880 www.thehomestoresng.com/artcafe/

Plot 1376, Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island, Lagos t:012700599 www.terrakulture.com

Inside Story

If you are looking for a casual restaurant serving high quality food with a unique and feel-good as well as family atmosphere, then Café Royal is the place to be. Our variety-packed menu includes mouthwatering appetizers, salads, pastas, burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, platters, exquisite desserts and drinks in addition to our all new Mexican food selection.

Metisse

Chocolat Royal

At Métisse, we have gathered the wonderful flavours of Pan-Asian cuisine from South-East Asia, to give you a taste of the five flavours of food: pungent, sweet, sour, bitter and salty.

Our healthy dishes, simple and aromatic, come in a wide variety to appeal to a diverse array of taste buds. They are guaranteed to suit any lifestyle, from gourmet to gourmand.

Métisse will both widen your repertoire and excite your passion with an unforgettably delightful aftertaste.

At Chocolat Royal, we create delicious memories. We offers authentic French pastries, cakes, Viennoiseries, handmade chocolates, breads, donuts, ice cream and more. Our products are proudly made in Nigeria and freshly baked using noble ingredients and traditional techniques.

Plot 267A , Etim Inyang Crescent,Victoria Island Annex, Lagos t:012714155-58 contact@chocolatroyal.com, Web: www.royalteas.com.ng

Proflex Gym If you’re looking for a hardcore gym, Proflex is your place. We have a dedicated room for spinning and yoga, a squash court and a huge selection of classes.

No 20,24 Ozumba Mbadiwe Victoria Island, Lagos t:017407361 / 014618898

EKO Spa

Plot 267A , Etim Inyang Crescent,Victoria Island Annex, Lagos t:01271 4155-58 contact@chocolatroyal.com, www.royalteas.com.ng

10 Balarabe Musa Crescent, Off Samuel Manuwa, Opposite 1004 Flats, Victoria Island, Lagos t:08171099966 / 0817109 9968 www.applesandorangesng.com

Jazz Hole

Plot 1415 Adetokunbo Ademola St. t:08188406519 ekospa@applesandorangesng.com @ekosalon_spa

168, Awolowo Rd, Falomo, Lagos, Nigeria t:0706 064 8580

H70 Road 3, Ikota shopping complex. t:08035101686

Funderland Mall Funderland Mall Lekki is the best place for family fun time, shopping and relaxation.

16 Lekki - Epe Express Road, Lekki, Lagos t:07058186863 funderlandmallng16@gmail.com

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Plot 267A , Etim Inyang Crescent, Victoria Island Annex, Lagos t:012714155-58 contact@chocolatroyal.com, www.royalteas.com.ng

Quintessence

4 Agoro Odiyan Street, Sony Centre Compound, Victoria Island, Lagos t:08126574948 www.insidestory.ng

A very popular African arts and gift shop with a lovely little café. From the clothes and jewelry to the books, furnishings and art, everything in the shop celebrates Africa. You won't leave empty handed.

To list your businesses email info@lostinlagos.com

Plot 13, Block 44, Parkview Estate Entrance, Off Gerrard Road t:08033275401 www.quintessenceltd.com

Apples and Oranges Salon and Spa is the first salon and spa in Nigeria that provides a ‘One Stop Spa Experience for the Entire Family.’

First class spa treatments, salon and nail services await you in an incredible environment.

Jazzhole has been a favorite with book and music enthusiasts around Lagos for years. A bookshop, cafe and record shop –they actually sell old records and CDs. You’ll find a little something for everyone. So sit back with a cup of coffee from their cafe and enjoy your surroundings.

Flower arrangements for events, banquets, offices & homes. Exquisite silk flower arrangements that last a lifetime and fresh flower arrangements available on request are all handmade by our exceptionally skilled florists.

The is the shop for gifts you would love to receive! We offer wedding gifts, personalised corporate gifts, hand-blown, crystal decanters, glasses, and decorative items for the home from top European brands at better prices than major U.K. stores.

Apples and Oranges

Immerse yourself in paradise as you experience beauty and wellness at its peak at Eko Salon and Spa. Our spa and salon services are first class and therapeutic, giving you the ideal retreat from the demands of the city.

Floral Fantasy

Arabella’s Place, Plot 2, Block 82, Emma Abimbola Cole Street, Lekki 1 t:07030318829 / 08090865298

Order wines at deliveries@arrawines.com or call/text +234 0706 555 888.

Hi-Impact Planet Hi-impact Planet is a world-class amusement park with thrilling outdoor rides and exciting indoor games, positioned for children, teenagers and the whole family to have a fun-filled experience.

The planet boasts state-of-the-art facilities such as luxurious apartments, a clinic, a multi-purpose hall and souvenir shops with variety of gifts.

KM 12, Lagos-Ibadan Express Way, Opp MFM, Ibafo t:07051192865 t:07051192867 t:09037444239 hi-impactplanet.com

R44, Klapmuts, Stellenbosch, South Africa

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Toys for Lagos Big Boys

We know how much men like their toys, but the Lagos Big Boys are all about their fancy gadgets. Who has the latest and newest in the market? Whose cost more? So here are some of the latest gadgets from GQ Magazine we thought you’d love to have fun with.

Playstation VR We could sit here and tell you about how PS VR can make you feel like you are somewhere else entirely, or how it can trick your mind into experiencing vertigo, or how it can give you the most immersive gaming experience you’ve ever had. We could do that until we’re blue in the face.

But they only way you’ll really understand why we’re so excited is to try it. Call it a present to yourself. £349.99 via Playstation

Cobra CDR 900 dash cam Wouldn’t you want to capture the crazy happenings in Lagos with this neat wireless dashcam from Cobra. With 1080P/1296P capability, wireless video streaming, a 160-degree viewing angle and 2.0-inch LCD viewing screen, it's one of the best, most compact devices out there. Perfect for the driver who wants an extra pair of eyes.

Nest Protect fire alarm This very smart smoke and carbon monoxide detector will text you if it sniffs out anything untoward and even tell you in advance when its battery's running low. Ideal for the nervous homeowner. £88.33 via amazon.co.uk

£179.99 via Cobra

Minipresso NS portable espresso maker Last year’s top gift pick for on-the-go Java fiends was this Minipresso portable espresso maker. At just 360g, 15.5cm in length and entirely hand-powered, it only had one drawback – you still had to pre-prepare a few baggies of ground coffee to carry with you. This year, the Minipresso NS is on hand to solve that by using standard Nespresso capsules instead. Plug one in the top, seal it in, and pump out a perfect single-serving shot of the good stuff. £50 via Bear & Bear

Polaroid Snap Instant Retro with a modern twist, the Snap Instant prints out your photos like a classic Polaroid but doesn't require any ink thanks to digital imaging. And it looks very sleek - the Mini Cooper of cameras. You can even find some of the Polaroid products at Alara Lagos. £64 via Polaroid

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