Lagos

The Ofada on their menu and Jollof rice.

So the house is a nice chill spot in VI (Victoria Island). They’ve got really good Nigerian dishes like the ofada I mentioned which is local rice and also continental dishes. They open till late daily so you can really have a good time there.


King fisher is a seafood restaurant in Lekki, it’s got some scenic views and they open late as well.

It’s a lounge in VI, I go there because they’ve got really nice cocktails at decent prices and good music too.

Foodies is in lekki, they’ve got all sorts of Nigerian dishes and they’re affordable.

The burg is a joint in Ikeja and as you can tell by the name they’ve got great burgers. You don’t have to break the bank to eat there and their milkshakes are top notch.

Yellow Chilli are on mainland and island. They have really good African dishes with a homely vibe.

They are barbecue joint in VI with great grills and they are affordable too.

So olaiya is a hub for all sorts of Nigerian dishes, I tend to order take out from there most time.

Eating out in Lagos with BOJ

Wavy the Creator

This is probably one of my favorite places to eat, coupled with the fact that it basically gives the vibe of you being in a house based on the variety of “rooms” you can go to.
Their jollof rice, peppered turkey and plantain? Never a miss

This is a new fashion store that appeals to the younger crowd in Nigeria. I first came across them on social media and was very pleased when i went to their online store and saw how well they cater to what the young people like. They have variety of options from shoes, to accessory They recently just opened a store at the Palms mall in Lekki, which is very convenient.

When I heard about Rufus and Bee, a fun house in Lagos, I was excited. The sense of freedom and nostalgia from the experience could make your inner child come alive. It is located in a building with 3 restaurants, a movie theater and an amazing rooftop view.

I feel this is a recreational haven for music and art lovers. It is a strategic site for the country, it was created around a decommissioned prison. From getting an insight into prison life in the 80’s to seeing a sample size of a cell as well as the gallows kind of motivates my process.
You sense immediately the love that transformed this former prison and place of hate and misery of colonial times into a venue where everyone is welcome. The park is beautiful

This bay is the ideal spot for ocean lovers, tourists and unarguably one of the best places to go to and have fun and relax. It’s my go to for the perfect “daycation”.

The main attraction for me was the 400m long canopy walkway (longest in Africa) as it gives a full view of the unique wildlife inhabiting the centre.

My first time at Bogobiri, I felt like I was at a spa in a treehouse. The art and decor are placed together to help you relax. The restaurant, the hotel and the art center make it a hub for everyone. You definitely know I do not miss Thursday’s open mic night.

A fine dining restaurant placed in an eye-catching environment with bamboo structures, use of shapes, contemporary art pieces and lest I forget, a contemporary fashion design store. My friends know it's the luxury Amala for me, to me it’s Amala that went to Yale.

This gallery is arguably the largest of its kind in West Africa with over 8,000 diverse works of art. Getting to see a wealth of artworks and be inspired by the thoughts behind the art. My favorite part of the first experience was how receptive and accommodating it feels once you’re in.

One of the largest markets in the city located in the heart of Lagos island. I enjoy thrifting a lot so this is like thrifting heaven

Exploring Lagos with Wavy the Creator

Desta French

London

Whenever I’m in the mood for Ecuadorian food, this is the spot. You have to try the ceviche there.

Latin village is like stepping into an actual indoor market in Colombia. I love it. It's filled with small local Latin businesses currently In litigations with the council who are trying to close it down so they build flats there. What’s new. 

Where I go for hair/nails. Really good empanadas and gossip. Run by my friend, STEPHANIE SANTIAGO, who is also a very talented Colombian, London-based Soul Artist.

Nice cocktails, food and a place to pick up a @LATINOLIFE magazine with all the latest news on Latin culture in the city.

Every Latino In London knows La Caleñita. It's a famous bakery where you can find all kinds of cheesy breads and yumminess.

There are a bunch of places to eat here and really feel the culture living alongside other ethnic communities which is so nice to see. You have to have a cholada from Brixton Village. It's tropical fruity icey buffness, you have to try it to understand.

La Vida Loca is another mini Latin Mall consisting of hairdressers, barber shop, nail parlour and masseuse on one floor and a Colombian bakery/restaurant along with other multi services for the community.

Discover London's Latino Spots with Desta French

Niia

Los Angeles 

My favourite late-night chic cocktail spot. Sometimes I'll get up and sing a song if I'm drunk enough.

A secret, tiny restaurant that reminds me of NYC. Best breakfast ever

My go-to Italian spot. You sit outside and feel like you're in Italy.

Understated jazz club where you'll often catch insane musicians.

I highly encourage getting stoned and seeing this strange and amazing museum.

Arguably the most iconic music and movie store ever.

Explore LA With Niia

12AM

Toronto

I would pull up between 11:30PM -12:30AM, the whole place has super unique vibes, almost like taking you through a time machine but ending at a lit party. All the times I’ve been they are playing Hip Hop. I really like the fact that there is a no photos policy and it sets a tone for everyone to lounge. Coolest part is the secret entrance, and they have the best drinks in the city... ask for the “old fashioned” and tell them 12 sent you.

2:30AM on a Saturday, reason I say that is because this is the spot you go before you go to the next spot. This place has the BEST donuts I’ve ever had let alone in Toronto, it’s a party vibe when you pull up, always bumping music and it's right in the centre of all the clubs. Little secret... ask for the 12AM donut.

Best time to arrive is after 12:30, that’s when it starts getting crazy and everyone wants to get in. I always know it's going to be a good night when DJ.... is spinning. What I like most about LoveChild is the aesthetic and the overall size of the club, a big club allows for a lot of people and a way better dancefloor. I would say what makes this place special is the dancers, they are always setting a tone for a lit night.

I would get here after 1 it’s the spot after the spot. It’s a piece of America within Canada and make sure to bring your one’s because you can’t throw loonies... If you are pulling up to this spot it is essential to make it rain.

Getting here at 9:30PM is the move, first thing I order is a baked crab handroll and the fried chicken followed by a couple drinks and some lava cake. Best part about this place is the aesthetic, once the food and drinks kick in, it’s the telltale sign the night just got started.

This is where the night goes all night. You can pull up anytime you want but once you get here expect to spend at least 4-5 hours. This is the place you pull up with your friends who are more focused on getting kills in COD than shots at the bar. What makes this place special to me is my passion for gaming. 

Get here for 10PM if you can find a lane. Me and my friends love golf so if you are a golfer you are in for a night of fun. The best part about this place is that you get to bring your own food and drinks and good times are guaranteed. Although this isn’t a conventional late-night spot it brings the best late-night vibes.

Mademoiselle is the spot to pull up to at 1130. The oysters are fire... the drinks are incredible and the atmosphere is perfect for the date you want to impress. The lighting and sound in this place leaves you with a special feeling that makes you want to come back time and time again.

After Hours in Toronto with 12AM

Benji B

If I could move in here and (afford to) eat lunch and dinner every day I would. Italian-based food with locally sourced ingredients in a great setting - tastefully done and a special night out but not overly fancy. If it's nice weather sit in the small garden. Food is absolutely banging. I’ve always liked this neighbourhood too.
Who to ask for: Johnny
What to order: Everything on the menu.

One of my favourite local West Indian spots in North London.
What to order: fish stew or curry chicken w/ rice and peas & a veg pattie 
Who to ask for: Don’t ask for anyone, just get in line. Talking of which, if you are in a rush and it's lunchtime this ain't the place for you. Just know that all good things come to those who… wait in a long queue.

Sometimes only Ranoush Juice will do. More of a takeaway snack spot than a sit down place, although there are a few tables if you want to eat and go. Sometimes I realise it's on route to somewhere I’m headed and I’ll divert to make a stop, sometimes I’ll just make the trip especially. I go there for one specific item: the Ranoush Juice Shawarma wrap: one is never enough and two is too much.
What to order: Chicken Shawarma wrap and a fresh carrot juice

Just off Shaftesbury Avenue near Chinatown, serving a Middle Eastern menu inspired by Israeli cooking, Southern Spain and North Africa, the food here is fresh and good for lunch or dinner and is made in the open kitchen, right in front of you.
Who to ask for: Well, if you remember Layo and Bushwaka - The DJ duo closely associated with The End Nightclub in London, this is Layo’s place! So you could ask for him, or shake his hand and say good job.
What to order: Fattoush Salad, Persian Lemon Chicken, Tomato Labneh and plenty of Baharat Farmhouse Bread.

Low-key cafe breakfast spot that keeps it simple and gets it right. Breakfast also might be my favourite meal of the day to be honest.
Who to ask for: Elliot.
What to order: Scrambled eggs on 2 toast with parmesan shaving on top, hash browns and a cup of tea (I don’t eat red meat but if you like your bacon and all that theres plenty of that too).

Had to put a Japanese spot in this list and there are loads I could have chosen but I’m going with Dinings because it is top level Japanese food in an understated place. Was originally started by ex-Nobu chefs in 2006. I’ve eaten there from time to time over the years and it has maintained its quality.
What to order: Hamachi Tar Tar Chips, Unagi Nigiri, Miso Aubergine, Black Cod.

Top floor of the Standard in Kings Cross in London. Mexican and Spanish influenced menu. Environment posh but city vibe, feels like you’re in New York, lighting and design on point, definitely good for a night out. With the location being in Kings Cross, it gives a good mix of people -- and views. Food and drinks top level. Definitely not cheap tho.
Who to ask for: Thomas is the boss.
What to order: Cauliflower Tacos, Spanish Tortilla, Day Boot Fish. A Negroni before or an Old Fashioned after, depending on which way round you do it. Bartenders know what they are doing.

Feels like it would be rude not to include this classic. The OG Arcola street Mangal 1. What is there to say other than that I’ve ended up in here more than few times over the years. I respect this place a lot, the environment in the neighbourhood around this place has changed so much but this place has remained. There are undoubtedly loads of amazing Turkish places in London but this place is a classic.
What to order: Cacik, Tavuk Sis or Moussaka.

Classic Italian family run vibe not tryna be a cool spot but with a classic traditional feel. In a way this is the random one on the list - not sure why I like it so much but I do. Has a casual family feel to it, even if it ends up feeling a bit posh because of where it's located (Marylebone) and who goes there. I think I went in by chance once and I ended up going back. Not on the foodie cool list, you might go there and think “huh?” - but I like it for a secret straight up traditional Italian.
What to order: Cacio e Pepe, followed by Sea Bass.

This place been open for years and years but its hard to tell sometimes which nights it opens. Very simple environment - not a “night out” but good if you want a simple home cooking feel. Low key and casual, sometimes with shared tables. 
What to order: Fresh Bread, Banjon Borani, Lavand-e-murgh.

Benji B's Favourite Restaurants in London

Sobhhï

Dubai

Dubai with Sobhhï

Tai Verdes

This beach is a secret hideaway. Less people more waves and sand. That might be cheesy but this beach is still great. There are cliffs overlooking the water where people are constantly taking pictures and even engagement photos. It’s towards Malibu so you also get that nice lil PCH drive towards this beach.

Monty's is a late-night burger place that is all vegan. These burgers vegan or not are some of the best in la. The milkshakes too are the cherry on top. If you want a real introduction of vegan food then go here and have your mind blown.

The sandy dunes in Malibu are kind of jaw-dropping to look at. I used to work out there twice a month when I was training for college basketball. That’s the type of workout you should look forward to when you’re climbing to the top of that sand. The reward is an amazing view of Malibu beach and you get to run down like a maniac.

This is where I get all of my clothes. Okay not all but most. This spot is overrun by people who love fashion. I don’t blame them. So many great vendors come to sell dope shit there. Every time I go there I find another staple of my closet. If you walk into the trading post you will walk out with something.

Where I performed my first show ever. I released my album on the night I played at Winston house. It’s a great venue where great artists come to make memories. I’ll never forget this place. You should definitely check it out if you’re looking more live music in your life.

This hilltop is for Instagram professionals only. You will get some pictures that might be cooler than all the pictures you’ve ever taken in your life. Sometimes if you go at the right time you will see a line of people waiting to snap the perfect shot. I think you should go get in line.

This is a very interesting museum in LA that I go to when people visit me. If you bring someone to this spot you can say that you have taste but your not too boujee. I love the creativity of all the modern art in this spot. Maybe one day I’ll make something that ends up in there.

This wall is iconic in LA. It’s right by the skate park in Venice and artists are always marking it up with amazing unique pieces. I’ve been there a bunch of times and almost every time I’ve seen an artist working on the wall live. I don’t think I could ever be a graffiti artist. Those people are so talented.

Bowl, double black beans, double pinto, a small amount of fajitas, mild salsa, guac, lettuce, orange vinaigrette, with an extra tortilla (NO MEAT). This was my order every single day for a year. The downtown chipotle next to staple centre in Los Angeles. This is the best chipotle in LA. I’ve never had anything stale or had anything missing in my order at this place. When I was going through some hard times the workers there even let me have some free chips because they knew me. This place is golden.

Secret Beaches in Los Angeles with Tai Verdes

SooJin

Seoul

Usually open from sun up to sun down, it's best to visit during the weekday considering what a shit show it is on the weekends. You have to rummage to find gems and beware of counterfeit goods.

Chill cafe/bar tucked away in Eulji-ro that is run simultaneously by the owner of vinyl shop Clique Records. Great high balls, wine, cheese and music.

Hotel in the heart of Hongdae that boasts it's connection with the subculture. Grilled cheese at Tartine is one of the best and you can grab a drink at Side Note Club on their terrace.

A cafe/bar situated on the top floor of the showroom and shop of brand AJOBYAJO - at first it’s intimidating but just walk up the stairs to the 4th floor. Offers a zen-like vibe with Buddhist statues and an aquarium with white carp as their bar table. Their tea/coffee usually comes with traditional dried persimmons.

Located in the Hannam-dong neighborhood of Itaewon, Warped is a streetwear based clothing store where local creatives go to just chill.

A two-room techno club in Itaewon with possibly one of the best sound systems.

Entrance fee to the garden is separate from the Palace.

Small and cozy record bar that was opened by Jinmoo, one of the founders for OG DJ crew 360 Sounds. You can easily hear hip hop, jazz, soul and funk sounds by 360 Sounds members and other local DJs.

Not only a bar but an artistic space that has been used for live performances, film screenings and exhibitions. Sindosi offers books, cassettes and artwork for sale as well as a church going experience on their roof as they have pews for seating.

SooJin Park's Best Spots in Seoul

New York City 

Cafe con Libros (coffee with books) is an intersectional Feminist community bookstore and coffee shop. Through their choice of books, programming and great coffee, they endeavour to create a vibrant community space where everyone; specifically female-identified folx, feel centered, affirmed and celebrated.

LICHEN NYC is location in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It’s a design shop that’s helping to democratize design and proselytize more under-the-radar participants. Founded by Jared Blake and Ed Be the two have curated an exceptional archive of accessible vintage and contemporary furniture.

Brooklyn Blooms was planted in 2017 in the neighbourhood of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn with a mission to serve it’s neighbourhood and the surrounding communities with uniquely curated blooms while maintaining sustainable practices.

Harlem's 1st 100 percent African American owned craft beer bar. Their mission is to invest in their local community, to offer great beers "made by us and for us" and expand access and enjoy good times together, in their own way.

Brooklyn Clay Industries is a ceramics studio that holds pottery classes and workshops. The owner Reuben King, a native of Dominica, grew up with pottery-making as a time-honored tradition that he wishes to share and inspire creativity.

Byas & Leon is a heavy hitting local spot with distinct taste. They specialize in sustainable fashion & craftsmanship, while also serving as an Afro Caribbean cultural hub.

Founded by friends Shelby Macklin and Banna Nega in 2015, Glazed NYC is a community-based lifestyle brand focused on providing high quality, classic accessories that bridge the gap between function and glamour.

Designed in Brooklyn and handcrafted sustainably with artisans spanning Nairobi to NY, these shoes give anyone who wears them an extra spring in their step.

A little more mainstream but they're all about Black excellence.

Owned and run by Telsha Anderson, this beautiful store is completely designed to cater to the women-identifying community in NYC. It also has fabulous clothes.

Brooklyn's Best fried chicken! They are doing delivery or you can stroll down and pick up.

Bed Vyne is an independent brewery, cocktail bar and liquor store in Bed-Stuy, BV feels more like a family cookout than your standard bar.

A social and wellness club designed to celebrate people of colour, online and in real life. It's one of the first coworking and social spaces curated by young people of color for other young people of color.



Make Manifest is a retail and community space in the heart Bed-stuy Brooklyn. Designed to insure growth of local & independent businesses. The artistic platform strives for economic equity and an environmental consciousness.

A well stocked wine shop determined to give Brooklyn quality wine at a quality price.

Joloff Restaurant has become a local go to for Senegalese flavours made in Brooklyn.

Cafe Rue Dix explores West African and French heritage through its food, drinks and decor.

Haitian-American café and cocktail bar, CAFE ERZULIE, partnered with an existing flower shop so that both local businesses could flourish.

Ode to Babel is a small bar and lounge in Prospect Heights that has a become a true neighbourhood space.

Black-Owned Businesses in New York 

MMYYKK

Minneapolis 

This is a staple Black-owned restaurant in North Minneapolis. They definitely keep non-traditional hours but if you catch them while they’re open, you’re going to want to try the “Soul Roll.” Basically, it’s an egg roll but with unique soul-food inspired filling combinations. My favorite is the “Nanny”, which has a Collard Greens, Mac and Cheese, and Fried Chicken filling. **Chef's kiss*

Located in the Greater Rondo area in St. Paul, Taste of Rondo is a Bar and Grill with great Soul food and southern cooking. Their signature dish is catfish but they also make a mean philly sandwich, which is my favorite item on their menu. The restaurant has also been featured in Small Business Revolution Season 6.

Black Table Arts is a community driven arts cooperative located in Minneapolis. They have a great bookstore, shared workspace and a performance space. It’s a really great place to connect with other artists and organizers and they offer dope arts activities and events. I’ve purchased some great literature from them.

Juxtaposition Arts (or Juxta as we call it) is a teen-staffed art and design center, gallery, retail shop, and artists’ studio space in North Minneapolis. Juxta does a lot of great work with youth in the community and really empowers young artists to become entrepreneurs. They also have a skate park that anyone can access and use at any time which is super dope. I’ve actually played a show in the skate park and it was a great time.

FYI, the location changes every month! The Black Market mpls is an organization that creates marketplace events specifically for black businesses around the twin cities. They are super dope because they give black businesses that may not have a brick and mortar location, a place where they can regularly set up and sell products or services.

They hold events usually once or twice a month and there’s usually a great diversity of products. I’ve purchased fresh produce, skin and hair care products, men’s and women’s fashion, jewelry and cosmetics, body work, cleaning products, books, vinyl, all sorts of great products. The location changes month to month so make sure you check their website for the location info and schedule.

One of the only black owned music venues in the twin cities, Pimento Rum Bar is a great place to find black music, entertainment and events. They have Afrobeatz nights, Dancehall, Reggae, Afro-cuban bands, open mic events, karaoke, etc. They have a really nice patio and stage setup in the back where they host bands in the summertime. When you come to turn up, make sure you grab a Rum Punch from the bar. But be careful because it will get you there QUICK. They also have a restaurant attached where they serve Jamaican food. The restaurant has some of the most fire Wings in the cities.

Houston White is a Barber, entrepreneur and community leader. And his barber shop is one of the dopest spots in the cities. Not just because he’s an amazing barber and does great work, but he also has a storefront where you can buy his branded ‘Black Excellence’ apparel; and a 3rd space where folks can chill, listen to music, engage and exchange ideas. Houston is just a really good dude and his vibe permeates the space. He’s been a supporter of mine for many years as well and I have mad love and respect for him and everything he does in the community.

For the ladies, Beauty Lounge is a fantastic salon owned by my friend Melissa Taylor. It really is THE Minneapolis multi-cultural hair destination. They can work with any hair texture and also offer workshops on styling hair for kids as well as more advanced training for hair professionals. Melissa is super dope and really has a passion for what she does so if you’re looking to level up your look definitely stop in.

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