Welcome to ES African Kitchen
At ES African Kitchen, located in Portsmouth, VA, we embrace the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Ghanaian cuisine. Our journey began with a deep passion for sharing the authentic tastes of home, offering dishes like the iconic Banku and Tilapia, and Jollof Rice, renowned for its bold, aromatic spices. Our cozy, welcoming atmosphere invites guests to savor every bite, from flaky Ghanaian Meat Pies to hearty Egusi and Fufu. The heart of our kitchen lies in the warmth of our relationships—each dish reflects our commitment to quality and flavor. Join us, and experience a delightful slice of West African culture!
ES African Kitchen: Reviews & Ratings
This was our first time dining here, and we couldn’t be more impressed! We ordered the Waakye with Oxtail, and it was absolutely amazing—so flavorful and delicious. The staff were incredibly friendly. We will definitely be coming back!
A friend referred me and I was happy she did! First make sure you have the address because they don’t have a big outside sign so I had to really look for it. Once inside I really enjoyed the atmosphere. It’s small but has a few dine in tables. The decor is really cute. It is owned by a couple from Ghana. I met the wife “Gift”. She was very nice and welcoming. I ordered the oxtails & jollof rice. I also had the mango ginger juice. It was about 40 but worth it!
The people running the shop are very nice they’re very welcoming. Wasn’t rude. Their egusi and fufu. VERY GOOD!!!.
I ordered the Curry Goat & Joloff Rice. The goat was tendered and flavorful. I’ve been accustomed to some great African food over the years and this place will not disappoint. Highly Recommend!
I love that the atmosphere felt very peaceful. The owners are very welcoming. Helped assist me since it was my first time there. I love the idea that I can wash my hands and eat fufu how it should be eaten. The fufu alone was so good and the Egusi. The lamb (if I could recall) was so flavorful. It’s firm and has a nice chew with the texture of the Egusi. I asked to have the Egusi spicy, it was spicy, so be sure to let them know mild. But it was still very very good. I got to taste the Egusi before I got the collateral kick. I got the jollof with fish for my partner. I really like the portion. The ginger mango drink was great. Strong ginger and a subtle mango to back it up. It tastes so healthy and not so sweet.
ES Kitchen.... The owner Mrs. Gift was very welcoming and helpful since it was my first time trying fufu she showed me the proper way to eat it. The egusi soup was so flavorful I loved it, can't wait to try it again. Also, she let me try peanut butter soup which I never thought of doing and again the soup was so flavorful I loved it as well. I told her I can't wait to try her okra soup. I also had one of her fresh juices.... 10 out of 10.... I highly recommend!!!!!
I’ve been looking for an authentic West African food spot in the 757 and listennnnnnnnnnnnnnnn THIS IS WHERE ITS AT! I’m not new to west African food because where I’m from we have nice size community of west Africans food spots and I have uncle who is from Ghana and his food is bomb! I purchased the egusi &fufu(spicy) and it’s the best I have had in 757 !!! You can tell that the owners and chef takes pride and love in their food. The food is flavored throughout! My food was piping hot and I couldn’t wait to eat it. I said it my car and ate it! I live 40mins way in the Newport News and this was totally worth the drive! When I sat in my car to eat the food I had tears of joy and fulfillment! I literally had to go back into the restaurant and let them know that hands down the food is amazing! The size of the portions are on point too!! I’m very pleased! I will be returning!!
I recently had the pleasure of trying African cuisine for the first time at a restaurant, and it was an exceptional experience. The service stood out as the best I've encountered, with the owners being incredibly welcoming. The food was not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. The serene atmosphere added to the overall enjoyment of the evening. I highly recommend this restaurant for a delightful dining experience.
Location
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2876 Airline Blvd, Portsmouth, VA 23701, United States Hotline: +1 757-792-7172
Welcome to the vibrant flavors of ES African Kitchen, a culinary gem nestled in Portsmouth, Virginia. With a commitment to serving authentic West African cuisine, this charming establishment invites you to embark on a delightful gastronomic journey that pays homage to traditional Ghanaian dishes. Located at 2876 Airline Blvd, Portsmouth, VA 23701, you can easily reach them at +1 757-792-7172 for inquiries.
At ES African Kitchen, the menu is a treasure trove of cultural delights. For breakfast, don’t miss the Waakye, a beloved Ghanaian dish of rice and beans that’s perfect for any time of day. The Banku and Okro Stew showcases the sweet and savory elements that define Ghanaian cuisine, appealing to both locals and newcomers alike. For lunch and dinner, you can indulge in the rich and hearty Palm Nut Soup, a staple in West Africa, or opt for the Light Soup, a flavorful blend of steamed fish or meat with aromatic seasonings.
- Roasted Ripe Plantain and Peanuts: A simple yet delectable combo that captures the essence of West African street food.
- Fufu and Egusi: A must-try for those seeking an authentic experience, with its unique textures and robust flavors.
- Curry Goat and Jollof Rice: This dish has garnered rave reviews for its tender meat and rich, well-spiced rice.
The atmosphere at ES African Kitchen is equally inviting. Patrons frequently praise the warm hospitality of the owners, originally from Ghana. Joy Blake, a first-time visitor, remarked on the “flavorful and delicious” Waakye with Oxtail, emphasizing the friendly service that enhances the dining experience. Sonya Z. Phillips appreciated the cozy decor, noting how the intimate setting complements the discourse of delightful dishes.
Your visit is not just about the food; it’s an immersion into West African culture. As Trini Lotus experienced, the euphoria of enjoying fufu with your hands is a celebration of tradition. The thoughtful preparation of dishes like Egusi ensures that each bite carries a burst of flavor, complemented by refreshing beverages like the ginger mango drink, which balances healthiness with a hint of sweetness.
In conclusion, ES African Kitchen embodies the heart and soul of Ghanaian cuisine, inviting you to explore a menu filled with comforting dishes and vibrant cultures. Whether you’re a long-time fan of African flavors or a curious foodie, this hidden treasure is worth seeking out. Prepare for an unforgettable dining experience that feels like a warm hug from home.