If you’ve ever heard someone say, “I’d love to try Nigerian food, but isn’t it too spicy?” you’re not alone. It’s one of the biggest stereotypes about Nigerian cuisine. While it’s true that Nigeria is famous for bold, fiery flavors, the reality is far more interesting.
Not all Nigerian food is spicy, and that’s exactly what makes it so exciting. At Demi’s Restaurant in London, our menu is designed to showcase the full spectrum of Nigerian flavours: from rich, mild comfort dishes to bold, peppery favourites. Whether you’re a heat-seeker or someone who prefers gentler tastes, there’s something waiting for you.
The Spicy Stars: For Those Who Love the Heat
If spice excites you, Nigerian cuisine will feel like home. At Demi’s, our menu includes:
- Goat Meat or Catfish Pepper Soup – Hot, aromatic, and deeply warming. A true Nigerian classic.
- Spicy Grilled Turkey – Smoky, juicy, and tossed in a pepper sauce that packs a punch.
- Suya – Skewered beef coated in traditional Hausa spice (yaji), smoky and fiery in the best way.
These dishes deliver that kick Nigeria is known for, but they’re also balanced spicy doesn’t mean overwhelming, it means layered flavour.
The Gentle Comforts: Nigerian Food Beyond the Heat
Here’s where many people are surprised, Nigeria has plenty of dishes that are mild, creamy, and deeply satisfying without being hot. Some favourites from our menu include:
- Beans with Stew and Plantain – Sweet, savoury, and wholesome. A true comfort dish that warms the heart more than the tongue.
- Jollof Rice – Yes, it has a little pepper, but the dominant notes are smoky, savoury, and rich, not burn-your-mouth hot.
- Egusi Soup with Pounded Yam – Earthy, nutty, and indulgent, with spice levels that can be tailored to your preference.
- Oat Meal Swallow with Vegetable Soup – Light, nourishing, and perfect for anyone who wants a mild but flavourful Nigerian dish.
These meals prove that Nigerian food isn’t a one-note “spicy cuisine”, it”’s a diverse tapestry of flavours.
Customising Your Spice at Demi’s
At Demi’s Restaurant, we know everyone’s spice tolerance is different. That’s why many of our dishes can be customised to suit your heat level. Love extra fire? We’ll turn it up. Prefer it mild? We’ve got you.
This flexibility means Nigerian food is for everyone, not just the brave.
Why This Myth Needs Breaking
Saying Nigerian food is “too spicy” is like saying all Chinese food is just noodles or all Italian food is just pizza. It overlooks the diversity, creativity, and richness of an entire culture’s cuisine.
At Demi’s, our mission is to make Nigerian food in London approachable, exciting, and unforgettable. Whether you’re here for the heat or the comfort, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for what Nigerian cuisine truly is: bold, balanced, and beautiful.
Discover Nigerian Food in London at Demi’s
So, is Nigerian food always spicy? The answer is no. It’s flavourful, diverse, and full of options for every taste.
Join us at Demi’s Restaurant in London and explore the best of Nigerian cuisine — from fiery pepper soup to sweet plantain and hearty jollof rice. Come with curiosity, and leave with a full stomach and a new favourite dish.
