Retro Africa @Retroafrica is home to Atelier Hotel @atelierhotels a midi boutique hotel and Pavilion restaurant. It's an infusion of art, hospitality and good food which is what everyone strives to have in life "living la vida loca". Walking into this place located in Asokoro, the scenery and tranquillity that envelopes you is without words. Retro Africa is a community of art lovers, curators and collectors, infused with this work of art is a hotel that makes you feel safe, free, inspired and on top of the world. The reception welcomes you with wonderful collections of art hanging on white walls, which ticks your sensory experience by inspiring you and giving a relaxed feeling which makes you sigh "home at last". The rooms are designed artistically with infusion of art, nature and a rustic feel. The wood work is well crafted "a master piece" you can't stop looking and grinning, African games like ayo to stimulate your mind, mind blowing books on fashion, art, nature, abstract etc, African print designs, flowers in the room to invite nature, art pieces hanging on the walls, in a nutshell the interior decor is a master piece. I like to see it as a mix of the old and the new, mixing modern with traditional. This is a place for creative minds to find their ZING! One of the main attraction for me asides the art work was when I saw the modern modified phonograph also know as turntable or record player back in the days, I couldn't help myself, I was also screaming but I kept saying no way! The nostalgic feeling made me remember the good old days yet, I spent my time listening to two of my fav artiste Sade Adu and King Sunny Ade. Less I forget, the staff are very friendly and professional. You get to have complimentary fruits, water and dessert. The pavilion restaurant is a chilled spot for lovers, it has a nature and artistic theme; well manicured grass with lounge chairs and then a rustic sit out area where you can chill, listen to good music and enjoy the company of yourself and your date. It's not a rowdy area so it's meant for matured minds, need I say the chef has his/her A game on! Looking for a moderate luxurious hotel to stay, I recommend this hotel without thinking twice. You won't regret it!
Follow me on @tourwithswagger and @gbogbo_swagger
Live your...
Read moreI had a date/hangout and since I'm known for discovering new places in Abuja, my date left the location in my hands, he was like "marv where are we going to? Choose the location" you know when someone gives you a blank cheque and the next thing you are confuse and don't know what to do. I searched Google map for new locations/places (infact i did not know what i wanted to do or where i want to go).
I Google new restaurant, side attractions, cafe, gardens 😂😂 i was really confused. (I'm good with recommendations, like i go places so i can recommend it for people. However when it comes to my own hangout I'm always confuse because i don't want to go to a place i have gone before😋 i always want new and exciting places). I made up my mind that we should go kayak then eat at grill 101. After typing that to my date i went back to Google map low and behold i saw RETRO AFRICA.
I checked the reviews and decided to give it a try. First the location in the map is misleading. (I'm going to make a vlog on how to get there) then we finally got there and the environment is just peaceful.
We started from downstairs (mind you its an art galleria abi a museum) hahahaaaa i could not explain or interpret the art sha (I'm just one of those people that says "i love art" but i know nothing about art😂😂😂😂 (don't judge me). We went round trying to interpret the art😂😂 (if you no no something you no no ham😂) then we sat and talked. After that we went to the bar which is also lovely (we sha did not get anything because the second location was for food and drinks😎).
My review on the place.... it is peaceful, picture friendly, good place to seat and think or read, environment very neat, business meetings and a lot more. Try and go there (thank me later ) and also don't forget to wear your face mask and come alone with a...
Read moreRetro Africa is a quaint and thoughtfully curated art gallery that also doubles as the reception/foyer of The Atelier Hotel. During my visit in May 2025, the exhibition was a vibrant explosion of color, each piece, wall, and sculpture working together to tell a cohesive visual story. It’s a refreshing and immersive space, perfect for an afternoon of art appreciation.
A few things to note if you’re planning a visit: yes, entry is free and photos are allowed, but only with your phone. No cameras or professional equipment, and no wardrobe changes either. Honestly, a fair trade for such an enjoyable experience at no cost. The staff were all incredibly friendly and open to answering questions. I even got to peek into one of the hotel rooms, absolutely beautiful (stay tuned for my review of The Atelier Hotel post-stay!).
There was a minor downside: the first-floor gallery bathroom had a noticeable plumbing issue, which led to an unpleasant smell. It’s nothing that can't be fixed, but worth mentioning. Smell is such an important part of any experience, and a space this stunning visually deserves to smell just as good.
After soaking in the art, I highly recommend stopping by The Pavilion, the outdoor restaurant on the premises, even if it’s just for a drink. On my visit, we enjoyed the ofada rice and poundo with egusi, both flavorful and satisfying. The mojito was well-made and perfectly refreshing.
All in all, a solid 4 stars. The art, aesthetic, and ambiance are undoubtedly the stars of...
Read more