Food from Calabar

I was in Abuja last week to review this new restaurant, opened by Calabar people for Calabar people, and lovers of Calabar food in the Federal Capital Territory.

The owner, a charming guy by the name of Mr Edet O, invited me to his newly-opened restaurant in Gwarimpa: a pleasant-looking place with DSTV; air-conditioning and music; and superb lighting.

The place was busy. I had to stand for several minutes before the owner himself came and made space for me.

Because I was new to Calabar Cuisine, he kindly ordered for me – Afang soup with assorted meat,

“The best dish you have ever tasted”, he assured me.

I ate happily thinking it was true what they say, that Calabar people are Nigeria’s best cooks. The owner walked to my table and asked my opinion of the food.

“It’s very tasty”, I enthused.

He asked if I liked the meat and I answered, ”It’s good, what kind of meat is it”?

“It’s 4-0-4”.

“What’s that”? I asked feeling panic.

“That’s dog meat” he beamed.

The meat flew from my mouth and landed on the next two tables.

He opened his own mouth, scandalised.

I should be the one scandalised: I just ate Man’s best friend!

I apologized to him and to the Couple on whose table the meat landed, saying I wasn’t used to eating dog-meat and that this was my first time, and so on, and so on.

They all had a good laugh about it, but Gosh, I was embarrassed.

Despite that, I found the restaurant excellent: the all-round cleanliness; the ambience; the helpful staff; and of course the traditional Calabar delicacies, give this restaurant a five-star feel.

I would certainly go there again, but I won’t be trying 4-0-4 anytime soon.