When I heard about a new restaurant that was attracting both locals and tourists, I couldn't help but think, 'Here we go again with the propaganda from the people of Lagos.' I'm always hesitant to try out a new restaurant, especially when customers rave about the ambiance alone. I assumed that eventually, people would catch on, but even after the news spread throughout the city about their minimum spend of N50,000 per guest and considering the competitive year for restaurants, I became curious about how this particular establishment managed to maintain its reputation, respect, and popularity. So, you might wonder, why is everyone flocking to Kaly?
Kaly is sitting on the rooftop of Victoria Island's stunning Number One building. I expected rigorous reservation policies, but that wasn't the case. Even on the day of the president's inauguration when many restaurants anticipated a decline in business, Kaly defied the odds and welcomed a full house, leaving no bar stool unoccupied."
When I walked into the restaurant, the hostess seemed quite attentive. She showed us around to see what seats were available, impressing me with her remarkable ability to identify reserved seats without relying on her tab. I couldn't help but wonder if she could be deceiving us. However, as we prepared to leave, I noticed groups of individuals and couples being confidently led to their assigned seats, confirming that reservations had indeed been made; otherwise they would have gone on an excursion like us.
The waiters appeared to be highly knowledgeable because they recognized the menu components and inquired if we had any allergies, which is something you would normally have to explain rather than being asked. The waiters checked in with us every 5 seconds, even when they were serving other customers, to see if we needed anything, and it was the best service I'd ever seen in Lagos.
The dishes were good, but the chargrilled chicken was one of the most subtle, yet herby and flavorful chickens I've had in Lagos, a city known for its robust flavors. That chicken was luxurious. The prawn fried rice, on the other hand, might have been more independent because they were sticking together and the flavor was shy, not subtle like the chargrilled chicken.
Whatever you do as a lady at Kaly, have the ‘make me blush’ cocktail. I was flushed after that pink large glass of alcoholic cocktail.
This quiet night kept my hopes up as it offered more than the nouveau sophistication feats that have inflated the cost of a good night out in Lagos but not an experience that matches the price.
Although I am still yet to attest that this restaurant is a culinary achievement, I definitely recommend the impeccable experience embedded in the service and coordination of the staff.
That is why everyone comes to Kaly; they dine with peace of mind.
AMBIENCE: 17/20
SERVICE: 19/20
FOOD: 12/20
MENU: 16/20
RECEPTION ON ARRIVAL: 16/20
RATING: 80/100
Disclaimer: My pass mark is 70%
By: Uju Amaeshi, Food Critic, Restaurant Consultant, Food Tech founder
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