Went there for dinner on my last night visiting Lagos. Had often used them while working here but usually asked for delivery to my workplace, which was fairly seamless. So today, I wanted to experience the place for myself.
I was really disappointed by the dine-in experience. The place was so crowded and stuffy, and all the vices you expected of a crowded Lagos spot, including shuffling and disorderliness, was on full display. Several patrons who are used to it simply came in and pretended I wasn't there and were served while I patiently waited for the crowd to reduce. Luckily, some staff eventually noticed me, just before I ran out of patience, and served me. The payment counter was another chaos. This place could do with a little bit of organising.
I was impressed by the vast choice of local freshly prepared and steaming food on display. I wasn't too sure about some wiper-like device they were using to remove the steam build-up on the food display, though.
The prices were fair considering their pedigree and current inflation. Because so much of my time had been wasted waiting, I had to get a takeaway. The pounded yam and efor riro was excellent, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I wouldn't be that patient if I were in my usual elements or hungry. My advice is to avoid peak times or simply grab a takeaway or, better still, call them and ask for a delivery.
Service is a bit chaotic, especially when it's time to pay. The cashiers always treat customs like they'll suspect them to run off without paying. But , it's really neat and food is good, with decent portion sizes.
Very diverse food options, and great service getting takeout. Will definitely get pictures on my second visit, hopefully my opinion doesn't change.
EDIT:
The food still tastes good, hallelujah.
So I got pictures this time I ate in. You know, for a self proclaimed Buka, it is a rather nice place to relax and eat despite how busy it gets, if you opt to sit upstairs. Very nice decor, great lighting and very well dressed tables. I also liked the fact that there were a pair of clean sinks to wash my hands outside the restroom. It's convenient.
I think the prices are decent, coming from a a broke student. Everything on my plate cost exactly ₦2,000 at the time this review was published, and I was more than satisfied with the flavour and quantity, except the plantain 💀. Plantains are expensive everywhere right now, but man for 2 servings, I think I had like 6/7 pieces? Oof.
Getting my food served did take a while. The staff weren't slacking, Sunday afternoons are just really busy, and people making bulk orders make wait times longer. The staff do their best still, can't be mad at that. Although, you might get a bit peeved depending on how patient/hungry you are.
If you come here, take some time to weigh your options, don't be afraid to ask what's available and eat upstairs if you want to eat-in (there's a lot of noise downstairs from people ordering).
The Commint Buka is one of the best eat out spots in upstate Surulere.
Gives the blend of home cooked meals and a scenery of an exotic restaurant, especially the chambers upstairs.
Their menu is pretty affordable as well, only issue might be if you visit them during their peak hours, their customer service then might not be the best.
Nelson D.
6 months agoWent there for dinner on my last night visiting Lagos. Had often used them while working here but usually asked for delivery to my workplace, which was fairly seamless. So today, I wanted to experience the place for myself. I was really disappointed by the dine-in experience. The place was so crowded and stuffy, and all the vices you expected of a crowded Lagos spot, including shuffling and disorderliness, was on full display. Several patrons who are used to it simply came in and pretended I wasn't there and were served while I patiently waited for the crowd to reduce. Luckily, some staff eventually noticed me, just before I ran out of patience, and served me. The payment counter was another chaos. This place could do with a little bit of organising. I was impressed by the vast choice of local freshly prepared and steaming food on display. I wasn't too sure about some wiper-like device they were using to remove the steam build-up on the food display, though. The prices were fair considering their pedigree and current inflation. Because so much of my time had been wasted waiting, I had to get a takeaway. The pounded yam and efor riro was excellent, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I wouldn't be that patient if I were in my usual elements or hungry. My advice is to avoid peak times or simply grab a takeaway or, better still, call them and ask for a delivery.
emmanuel urueye
a month agoService is a bit chaotic, especially when it's time to pay. The cashiers always treat customs like they'll suspect them to run off without paying. But , it's really neat and food is good, with decent portion sizes.
Oladipupo
3 years agoVery diverse food options, and great service getting takeout. Will definitely get pictures on my second visit, hopefully my opinion doesn't change. EDIT: The food still tastes good, hallelujah. So I got pictures this time I ate in. You know, for a self proclaimed Buka, it is a rather nice place to relax and eat despite how busy it gets, if you opt to sit upstairs. Very nice decor, great lighting and very well dressed tables. I also liked the fact that there were a pair of clean sinks to wash my hands outside the restroom. It's convenient. I think the prices are decent, coming from a a broke student. Everything on my plate cost exactly ₦2,000 at the time this review was published, and I was more than satisfied with the flavour and quantity, except the plantain 💀. Plantains are expensive everywhere right now, but man for 2 servings, I think I had like 6/7 pieces? Oof. Getting my food served did take a while. The staff weren't slacking, Sunday afternoons are just really busy, and people making bulk orders make wait times longer. The staff do their best still, can't be mad at that. Although, you might get a bit peeved depending on how patient/hungry you are. If you come here, take some time to weigh your options, don't be afraid to ask what's available and eat upstairs if you want to eat-in (there's a lot of noise downstairs from people ordering).
Shalom Adebola
3 years agoThe Commint Buka is one of the best eat out spots in upstate Surulere. Gives the blend of home cooked meals and a scenery of an exotic restaurant, especially the chambers upstairs. Their menu is pretty affordable as well, only issue might be if you visit them during their peak hours, their customer service then might not be the best.
Yome Emamere
4 months agoLovely place, the environment is pretty decent and their food is delicious and hot. I really enjoyed the meal. I would definitely visit again