Jagabans Restaurant

Our Story

Where Tradition Meets Excellence

The Jagabans Journey

Humble Beginnings


Our journey began in 2018 with The Peppered Goat, a modest establishment driven by one simple mission: to share the vibrant, soul-warming flavors of Nigerian cuisine with Los Angeles. What started as a passion project quickly became a beloved community gathering place.


For five years, we perfected our craft, listening to our customers, refining our recipes, and building relationships that would become the foundation of something greater. Every plate served, every smile shared, taught us what it meant to bring people together through food.

The Peppered Goat restaurant

A Bold Evolution


In 2023, we took a leap of faith. Jagabans was born from a desire to elevate Nigerian cuisine to new heights—to show the world that our food deserves a place among the finest dining experiences. The name 'Jagabans' itself speaks to leadership and excellence in Nigerian culture.


We redesigned everything from the ground up: a sophisticated ambiance that honors our heritage, premium ingredients sourced locally and from Nigeria, and presentations that make each dish a work of art. Yet at our core, we remained true to the authentic flavors that made us who we are.

Jagabans interior

Our Philosophy


At Jagabans, we believe that Nigerian cuisine is not just food—it's storytelling. Each dish carries generations of wisdom, cultural pride, and the warmth of West African hospitality. From the complex spice blends in our suya to the perfectly balanced heat of our jollof rice, we honor tradition while embracing innovation.


We're committed to inclusivity, offering thoughtfully crafted vegan and vegetarian options alongside our signature meat dishes. Whether you're Nigerian, discovering our cuisine for the first time, or simply seeking an unforgettable meal, Jagabans welcomes you to our table.

Restaurant kitchen
Dining experience
Bar area

Meet Our Chef

Chef Johnpaul Arabome in the kitchen

Chef Johnpaul Arabome

Executive Chef & Owner

A Culinary Heritage


Born in Edo State, Nigeria, Johnpaul has always loved cooking and he learned that food is the language of love and community. He learned to transform simple ingredients into feasts that brought entire neighborhoods together, he understood the power of a well-prepared meal.


After gaining much experience from traveling to over 40 countries, Chef Johnpaul returned to his roots with a mission: to showcase Nigerian cuisine on the global stage with the refinement and respect it deserves.

Philosophy & Approach


'Every dish tells a story,' Chef Johnpaul explains. 'My goal is to honor the generations before me while pushing boundaries. I source the finest palm oil from small Nigerian producers, partner with local California farms for fresh vegetables, and spend months perfecting each recipe until it speaks to both tradition and innovation.'

Chef at work

Crafting perfection in the kitchen

Chef plating dishes

Artistry in every presentation

Recognition

The trophy from the Jollof Cooking Competition

Winner, Jollof Cooking Competition

2022

What our customers say

4.3

average across 96 reviews

  • Amazing experience. We had Jagabans cater our last kick back during our visit to LA and what an amazing experience! We placed an order and pick up was timely! The food was well packaged and so fresh and tasty! Our guests could not stop talking about it!! Will recommend each and every time!!
    Patience Ticombe
  • As a picky eater and someone who has dined at many restaurants, I can say your food is the best African cuisine I’ve had in LA. Delicious and freshly prepared!!!
    WIN
  • I always have a great time at Jagaban. The energy feels right, the food tastes great, and the welcoming vibe is real.
    Adewole L.
  • Authentic Nigerian food! One of the best restaurant meals I’ve had.
    Orikaye Brown-West
  • Came here on a Sunday and tried it for the first time and amazing is all I can say. I been coming back every week. The owner is so nice and kind. Very clean place and great customer service
    Monica G.
  • It's delicious, service is good, fresh, good vibes, and the rice is the best! I like chef cooks with his heart and soul into each dish! Everyone is nice! Give them a try! It's bomb!
    Catherine V.
  • I ordered the fufu and egusi with goat and WOW! I had been wanting to try Nigerian food for a long time and I was not disappointed. So rich and lots of meat! I would absolutely recommend.
    Isabella Salvucci
  • It was our first time trying fufu and this place did not disappoint. The service was amazing and the restaurant was clean. We got the chicken and oxtail egusi soup to eat with our fufu. Fufu portion is very generous and the meat was extremely tender and flavorful. We will definitely be back when we are in town!
    Jennifer Quyen T.
  • I can’t stop ordering food from here, it’s just that good! The beans and plantain taste amazing, perfectly cooked and full of flavor. The goat stew is rich, tender, and seasoned so well that it ties everything together beautifully. Every time I eat here, it tastes just as good as the first time. Definitely one of my favorite spots!
    Edmond

Experience Our Story

Join us for an unforgettable journey through Nigerian cuisine