Planning a night out or a lazy weekend brunch in Lagos sounds like fun—until you’re told there’s a two-hour wait. Yikes! If you’ve ever tried to walk into a popular spot without a table reservation, you know exactly what we mean. Lagos is buzzing, and so are its restaurants. But the good news? With the right timing and a little insider know-how, you can avoid the crowd and dine like a VIP.
Let’s talk timing tips so your Friday evenings and Sunday brunches stay stress-free.
The 48-Hour Rule for Friday Nights
Friday nights in Lagos are like mini-festivals—everyone is out, and every spot is packed. If you have your eyes on a trendy rooftop bar or a posh dining lounge, don’t wait until Friday morning to start thinking about where to go. Make your table reservations at least 48 hours in advance, especially if you’re dining with a group or aiming for peak hours between 7 PM and 10 PM.
Many top restaurants in Lagos start filling up their Friday evening slots by Wednesday afternoon. If you’re using a concierge service like Bookings and Errands, you might still get in at the last minute, but even magic has limits. Want that perfect outdoor corner table with the skyline view? Lock it in early.
Brunch Bookings Are a Saturday Thing
Brunch is no longer just a casual meal—it’s practically a Lagos tradition. Think bottomless mimosas, soft jazz, and picture-perfect pancakes. But here’s the catch: Lagosians love their brunch. By Saturday afternoon, most spots with solid reputations are already fully booked for Sunday.
Your best bet? Call in or submit your table reservations by Saturday morning. Even better, if you’re really gunning for those super-in-demand locations like RSVP, Nok by Alara, or The House, try to reserve on Friday.
Many restaurants operate a two-sitting system on Sundays: a late morning group and a 1 PM or 2 PM crowd. If you’re flexible, the later time might offer a more relaxed vibe—and a better chance at securing a seat.
Off-Peak Perks You Shouldn’t Ignore
Now, here’s a fun secret. Want to avoid the crowd and maybe score a complimentary drink? Book during off-peak hours. For Friday nights, this means early bird times like 5:30 to 6:30 PM. You’ll get ahead of the dinner rush and often have more menu options available.
For brunch, aim for before 11 AM or after 2:30 PM. Not only do you skip the queues, but chefs are often less rushed, which can mean better attention to detail in your food. And let’s be honest, having more space to take Instagram-worthy food pics is always a bonus.
When using a concierge platform like Bookings and Errands, you can even request off-peak specials or quieter seating areas. It’s not just about getting in—it’s about getting the best experience possible.
Week-of vs. Same-Day Reservations
Same-day table reservations are like gambling—you might win, but chances are slim. Especially in high-demand areas like Victoria Island or Lekki Phase 1. If you’re planning a corporate dinner, birthday surprise, or even just a spontaneous date, it’s better to secure a table earlier in the week.
Restaurants often update their reservation books on Mondays, and prime weekend slots start to disappear by Wednesday. If you wait until Friday afternoon to book for Friday night, you’ll likely end up with bar seating or no seat at all.
Still, if spontaneity is your thing, focus on smaller or newer venues. They’re often just as delightful, less crowded, and more likely to accept walk-ins or same-day reservations.
Use Tech or Call in Like a Pro
Some Lagos restaurants accept online reservations via Instagram, DMs, or booking platforms. But to really be sure, nothing beats calling directly. This gives you a chance to request special arrangements—like birthday setups, kid-friendly zones, or even parking options.
If you use a concierge service, you’ll get the added benefit of knowing the restaurant’s mood, the best time to arrive, and whether the DJ is spinning that night. The right guidance turns a simple table reservation into a polished, elevated experience.
Insider Access: Getting into Exclusive or “By-Reservation-Only” Spots
Lagos is a city that loves to show off — in the best possible way. From rooftop lounges to hidden dining dens, there’s no shortage of exclusive spots where only the well-connected or super-organized get in. But guess what? You don’t have to be a celebrity to score a seat. With a few clever tricks and a bit of timing, you can glide past the velvet rope like a pro.
Let’s talk insider access and how you can turn those hard-to-get table reservations into your personal wins.
Know the Right Places (and the Right People)
The first rule of scoring a table at Lagos’ by-reservation-only restaurants? Know where to look. Not every fancy spot has a flashing neon sign or even a website. Some of the most exclusive venues are discreet, Instagram-only gems that operate more like private clubs than public restaurants.
You don’t need to be besties with the owner, but it helps to have a trusted concierge service on speed dial. Companies like Bookings and Errands already have connections with top-tier venues and can often unlock access where individual calls won’t work. They know the gatekeepers, the mood of the place, and how to time your request just right.
Timing Isn’t Everything, But It’s Close
Most exclusive venues fill up fast—we’re talking days or even a week in advance. If you’re trying to land a seat at a hot table on a Friday night, calling the day before is basically wishful thinking.
Instead, plan at least three to five days ahead. Some places release their reservation slots on Monday mornings. Set a reminder on your phone, or better yet, let your concierge handle it while you focus on your outfit.
And here’s a fun tip: mid-week nights like Wednesdays or Thursdays often have better availability at these hard-to-book spots. You’ll still get the full VIP treatment—just with less hassle.
Make Your Reservation Count
If you’re booking a spot that’s invitation-only or super exclusive, don’t treat it like your average Friday night dinner. Show you’re serious. Be clear about your time of arrival, the number of guests, and any special requests. The more precise and polite you are, the better your odds.
And yes, confirm your table reservation. It may seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget. A simple text or call the day before can save your spot and show the restaurant you’re reliable—a big deal in places where no-shows get blacklisted.
Need help sounding extra polished? Bookings and Errands can handle confirmations and special touches like birthday setups, custom cakes, or discreet signage.
Off-the-Menu Perks You Can Actually Ask For
Once you’re in, don’t stop at just showing up. Many exclusive restaurants offer off-the-menu perks for guests they recognize or those who book through known channels. This could mean a chef’s tasting menu, a reserved booth, or a complimentary starter.
Ask your concierge to note any special requests in advance. Want a quiet corner? Need a vegetarian tasting menu? You’d be surprised how many yeses you get when your booking is done by someone with a relationship with the place.
And here’s the kicker: even if you’ve been told the spot is fully booked, some restaurants hold back one or two tables for trusted partners. This is where concierge services shine—they know how to unlock those last-minute tables others can’t.
Be a Regular, Not a Stranger
Want to make insider access a lifestyle, not a one-time win? Start becoming a familiar face. You don’t need to visit every week, but if you’re polite, tip well, and thank the staff, you’re already standing out.
If the place has a guestbook, sign it. Follow their Instagram, leave a glowing review, and tag them when you post. These little actions build your visibility and reputation with the venue.
Better yet, always book through the same service. When Bookings and Errands sends a name repeatedly, restaurants begin to recognize that guest as part of a VIP circle—and that opens even more doors.
Special Requests: How to Get a Window Seat, Private Room, or Chef’s Tasting
So, you’ve made your table reservation and are already daydreaming about clinking glasses with a view of the Lagos skyline. But let’s be honest—just getting a table isn’t always enough. Sometimes, you want that little extra sparkle: a romantic window seat, an intimate private room, or a once-in-a-lifetime chef’s tasting menu.
Here’s how you can turn an ordinary booking into an unforgettable dining experience. The secret? It’s all in the special requests—and how you make them.
Ask Politely, but Ask Clearly
Many people assume exclusive perks are only for celebrities or regulars. Truth is, restaurants honor polite and clear requests more often than you think. If you want a window seat, don’t just cross your fingers and hope. Be specific when making your table reservation.
Say something like, “We’re celebrating an anniversary and would love a window seat, if available.” Clear, kind, and respectful of availability—this tone works wonders.
Some guests even note preferences like “quiet corner” or “far from the speakers.” The staff won’t always guarantee it, but if they can make it happen, they usually do.
Book Early—and Through the Right Channels
You’ll have a better shot at special seating if you book ahead of time, especially for weekends or public holidays. Restaurants plan their layouts in advance, and the earlier you get your request in, the better your chances.
Even better? Use a trusted service like Bookings and Errands to make your reservation. When requests come through familiar, professional channels, they’re often taken more seriously. Restaurants trust their partners and want to keep the relationship strong.
So yes, that window seat or VIP booth becomes a little more available when you’re not just “random guest number 25.”
Getting That Coveted Private Room
Private dining rooms are a dream. Whether it’s a business dinner or a birthday celebration, having your own space feels luxurious. But these rooms are limited—and usually go fast.
When making table reservations, ask early and specify your occasion. If you’re with a group, mention your headcount and be ready to commit to a minimum spend. Many restaurants require this for private rooms, and knowing that upfront helps you plan.
You can also ask if the room comes with any extras, like a private waiter, customizable menu, or exclusive access to the bar. It’s worth it, especially if you’re entertaining guests or sealing a deal.
The Magic of a Chef’s Tasting Menu
Here’s a tip: many high-end restaurants don’t advertise their tasting menus. They’re reserved for those who ask—or know the right people to ask on their behalf.
If you’re interested in trying a chef’s tasting experience, mention it when making your table reservation. Ask if the chef offers a seasonal tasting or surprise menu. It’s a fun way to explore new dishes and flavors you might never have picked on your own.
Be sure to note dietary restrictions or allergies. This gives the chef time to craft something special just for you—and keeps the experience smooth and safe.
Small Details That Make a Big Difference
You can also request subtle touches that enhance your night without being too flashy. Want flowers on the table? A birthday candle on dessert? A special playlist if you’re booking a private room?
All these are fair game when you book through a personalized service or directly with the venue. Again, clarity and kindness go a long way.
If you’re planning a proposal or special surprise, make sure to inform the restaurant at least 24 hours in advance. Some even have in-house photographers or decorators you can add to your package.
Concierge Service Power: Why Using a Service Like Bookings and Errands Works
In a city as lively and fast-paced as Lagos, securing a great night out can feel like a full-time job. From table reservations at popular restaurants to finding a trusted driver or planning a surprise dinner party—there’s always something to organize. That’s where the power of a concierge service comes in, and Bookings and Errands is leading the way.
Imagine handing over your wish list and simply showing up while someone else takes care of the details. It’s not magic, but it sure feels like it.
Skip the Waitlist, Secure the Vibe
You know that moment when you call your favorite spot and they say, “We’re fully booked tonight”? Painful, right? With a concierge like Bookings and Errands, you’re not calling as just another guest—you’re calling through a trusted channel that restaurants take seriously.
This means your chances of getting a table reservation when others can’t? Way higher. Whether it’s Friday date night or Sunday brunch, they often know who to call and what to say to lock in a prime seat. You don’t even have to lift a finger—just show up hungry and stylish.
Save Time, Energy, and Unnecessary Stress
You already spend your days working, commuting, or navigating Lagos traffic like a pro. Do you really want to spend your evening comparing catering menus or chasing down event decorators?
Concierge services like Bookings and Errands take care of the little (and big) things that eat up your time. Whether you’re trying to find a window seat at a romantic restaurant, book a driver, or stock your Airbnb fridge before arrival—consider it done.
It’s like having a PA, but only when you need one. And way less complicated.
Access to Hidden Gems and Insider Perks
You might know the trendy places everyone is talking about, but do you know the hidden VIP spots that don’t even have an Instagram page? Bookings and Errands does.
Concierge services often have access to private dining rooms, exclusive chef tastings, and priority bookings you won’t find on Google. Want a table with the perfect sunset view or a secret menu item not listed anywhere? They can make that happen.
By using their network, you’re getting more than a booking—you’re getting the experience only insiders usually enjoy.
Tailored to You, Down to the Last Detail
Let’s say you’re planning a proposal dinner. You want a quiet corner table, flowers on arrival, your favorite wine chilled, and maybe even live music. Sounds like a dream? A good concierge turns it into reality.
Bookings and Errands doesn’t just handle table reservations; they ask the right questions to make the night feel personal. They learn your preferences and suggest ideas you didn’t even know you needed.
You get more than a meal—you get a moment that feels perfectly curated just for you.
Reliability, Trust, and Total Peace of Mind
There’s something powerful about handing off your plans to someone who just gets it. With Bookings and Errands, you know you’re in safe hands. They’ve vetted the restaurants, know which vendors show up on time, and which car rentals won’t break down in traffic.
If plans change (because Lagos life happens), they’re flexible. You don’t have to panic, reschedule, or call ten people. Your concierge already has it handled.
It’s not just about convenience—it’s about trusting someone else to make you look and feel like a VIP.
Final Thoughts: Live Better, Not Busier
Concierge services aren’t just for celebrities or CEOs. They’re for anyone who values time, quality, and a bit of ease in their life. Whether you need table reservations, event planning, or a luxury shortlet apartment, Bookings and Errands has the contacts and the class to make it all happen.
And honestly? Once you try it, you might never want to go back to doing it all yourself.
Ready to book your next unforgettable evening? Let Bookings and Errands take it from here—so you can just enjoy the moment.
