A Taste of Home at Mama T Restaurant in Newport

Savor the vibrant flavors of Jollof rice with tender beef and crispy fried plantain, perfectly complemented by a chilled can of Coca Cola.

Newport’s culinary scene is ever-expanding, but for those seeking an authentic taste of West Africa, Mama T Restaurant stands out as a hidden gem. Located in the heart of the city, this eatery brings the warmth of traditional Nigerian cuisine to a welcoming and vibrant setting. With a menu rich in classic dishes like Jollof rice, fried plantain, suya, egusi soup, and pepper soup, Mama T offers a comforting taste of home for Africans abroad and an exciting introduction to Nigerian flavors for newcomers.

Ambience & Service

Walking into Mama T, the first thing you notice is the homely atmosphere—warm lighting, Afrobeat music playing softly in the background, and a friendly staff eager to make recommendations. The restaurant embraces a casual, no-frills dining experience, focusing on what truly matters: the food. Service is prompt, and the staff exude a genuine passion for sharing Nigerian cuisine with their customers.

The Food

For this visit, I ordered a classic plate of Jollof rice, fried plantain, and grilled beef, accompanied by an ice-cold Coca-Cola. The moment the dish arrived, the aroma of well-spiced tomato-based Jollof rice filled the air—a promising sign of authenticity.

The Jollof rice was flavorful and well-cooked, boasting the signature smoky, slightly spicy taste that separates a good Jollof from an average one. The fried plantains were golden brown, slightly caramelized on the outside, and perfectly soft inside—a delightful contrast to the savory rice. The grilled beef, though slightly charred, packed a punch with bold seasoning, delivering a true taste of Nigerian street food.

While the food was delicious and generously portioned, one minor critique would be the texture of the beef—it leaned towards the chewier side. A slightly more tender cut would elevate the experience further.

Overall Verdict

Mama T Restaurant delivers on its promise of authentic Nigerian flavors, offering a satisfying meal in a cozy setting. Whether you’re a West African food lover or someone looking to try Nigerian cuisine for the first time, this spot is worth a visit. While the menu could benefit from more variety in drink options, the rich flavors, warm hospitality, and generous portions more than make up for it.

For an affordable and filling meal that takes you straight to the streets of Lagos, Mama T Restaurant is a must-try.

⭐ Rating: 4.5/5