Dodo is the side almost every plate at our counter goes out with. Ripe plantain sliced thick, fried until the edges caramelise deep gold and the middle turns soft and sweet – the perfect counterweight to a smoky, peppery Nigerian main.
Good dodo depends entirely on the plantain. We use fruit ripened until the skin is well spotted, which is when the natural sugars are highest, then fry in small batches so the slices colour evenly instead of steaming. A pinch of salt is all the seasoning it needs.
It is naturally vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free, which makes it one of the easiest things on our board for guests with dietary restrictions – and one of the most popular with children trying Nigerian food for the first time.
Dodo is the Yoruba name for fried ripe plantain, and it appears at practically every Nigerian meal, from weekday lunches to weddings. Ripe plantain fried this way is sweet and soft; the same fruit fried while still green becomes crisp and savoury, an entirely different snack.
Dodo and jollof rice is the classic combination – one of our reviewers grabs exactly that on a downtown lunch break. It is also excellent with Nigerian fried rice, pepper soup or peppered goat meat.
Ask for a side of dodo with any meal at our counter inside Covent Garden Market, add it to a takeout order, or include trays of it in a catering order for parties and office lunches around downtown London. Call (226) 980-5149 to arrange larger quantities.
London, Ontario
“Great spot in Covent Garden Market. I grabbed jollof with plantain on my lunch break and it was hot, fresh, and reasonably priced. You can also buy African groceries right beside the restaurant which is super convenient.”
Google review
London, Ontario
“Authentic Nigerian food right here in London. The jollof rice and chicken tasted just like home – rich, smoky flavour and perfectly cooked rice. Portions are generous and the staff are very friendly.”
Google review
London, Ontario
“First time trying Nigerian food and it was amazing. The egusi soup with fufu was so comforting and full of flavour. The lady at the counter explained the dishes and helped me choose. I’ll definitely be back.”
Google review
Find us inside Covent Garden Market in downtown London — get directions, check today’s hours, or order ahead for pickup.
34 Covent Market Place, London, Ontario N6A 1E2
Inside Covent Garden Market, downtown London
Dine-in at the market food court · Takeout & counter pickup · Phone orders · Catering trays by request · African grocery retail