Dept. of Culture is an intimate Nigerian restaurant on Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn, where chef-owner Ayo Balogun pairs a four-course prix fixe meal with stories about his family and childhood in North-Central Nigeria. Guests sit at a communal table or at the counter as Nigerian records play. The menu changes regularly, but past courses have included red snapper pepper soup, pounded yam with egusi and smoked fish, and caramelized plantain with ice cream. Bring your own drinks, and check the current menu before booking.
A communal Nigerian supper
At Dept. of Culture, chef and owner Ayo Balogun serves a four-course prix fixe menu shaped by North-Central Nigerian cooking. The intimate dining room seats up to 16 people at a large communal table, with additional counter seats. The shared setup gives the meal a dinner-party feel, and diners can talk with one another over the courses.
Balogun’s stories about his family and childhood in Nigeria are part of the experience. Nigerian records, including music by artists such as Ebenezer Obey, play during the meal. The room’s understated decor mixes vintage pieces with contemporary design.
What has appeared on the menu
The menu rotates, so past dishes are a guide rather than a promise of what you will eat. Eja tutu ati oshuka is red snapper in a spicy pepper soup. Wara ati obe pairs cheese with stew. Iyan ati egusi pelu eja alaran ati efo brings together pounded yam, fermented melon seeds, smoked fish and greens. For dessert, dodo ati ice cream combines caramelized plantain and ice cream.
The changing courses bring several forms of Nigerian cooking to the table, from soup to pounded yam and stew. Check the current menu before you reserve if you have a particular dish in mind.
Booking and bringing drinks
Dept. of Culture is BYOB, so plan to bring your own beverages or pick something up nearby. If you have an allergy or dietary restriction, mention it when making your reservation; accommodations can be made.
Arrive on time if you want to settle into your preferred seating, especially at the communal table. The shared format is a good fit if you enjoy chatting with other diners as the meal unfolds. For a more private dinner, the counter seats may suit you better.
Perguntas frequentes
What kind of food does Dept. of Culture serve?
It serves Nigerian cuisine in a four-course prix fixe meal. The menu rotates and has included red snapper pepper soup, pounded yam with egusi and smoked fish, and caramelized plantain with ice cream.
Is Dept. of Culture BYOB?
Yes. Bring your own drinks or pick them up nearby.
Does Dept. of Culture have communal seating?
Yes. The main communal table seats up to 16 diners, and counter seating is also available.
Can the restaurant accommodate dietary restrictions?
Accommodations can be made. Mention allergies or dietary restrictions when you book.
