If you ever visit Port Harcourt in Nigeria, one of the first things you’ll smell in the air is roasted plantain, what locals proudly call Bole. Bole (pronounced boh-lay) is a tasty street food made from roasted ripe plantain, spicy pepper sauce, and grilled fish. It’s hot, smoky, and full of flavour.
In this article, we’ll tell you a little more about the history of Bole, why it’s so essential to Port Harcourt, and the best places in the city where you can try a delicious plate of Bole.
Brief History of Bole
Bole has been around for a long time. People in the Niger Delta have always loved roasting plantain and grilling fish over open fire. Almost every house can prepare Bole on their own. But Port Harcourt made it super special.
The people here love it so much that they started a big food party called Bole Festival in 2016. Every year, thousands of people come to the city just to eat bole, dance, and have fun.
Popular Bole Spots in Port Harcourt City
In Port Harcourt, Bole is more than just food. It is a part of the city’s culture. It brings people together, whether you’re rich or poor, young or old, everybody loves it.
Bole shows the people’s creativity and pride. It tells the story of how simple street food became something special that represents the heart of the city.
Here are famous bole spots in Port Harcourt city to try out:
- House of Bole
- Elekahia Bole Joint
- Maleesky Special
- Chef Lozzy Bole Spot
- Bole Village
1. House of Bole
It offers quality and tasteful Bole at an affordable price. The customer reviews are more than enough to make you crave Bole.
Key Features
- Ample parking space.
- Nice food packaging
- Drinks like Soft drinks, juice, energy drinks, etc.
- Dine-in
- Take out options
- Nationwide Event Catering
Menu
- Bole
- Roasted fish
- Fried potatoes
- Roasted Yam
- Grilled Chicken
In addition, this is a kid-friendly spot, so you won’t have to worry about bringing your kids there to have fun.
This is a review from Google,
“This is a fantastic place to enjoy better bole, fish and yam at a mind-blowing price. It was just too affordable. My wife and I couldn’t finish it. The picture attached will convince you. Like this whole package called “Hob Senior Man” for just 7k? I’m coming back.”
–Ohemu Godwin Pius
For more information,
Instagram: House of Bole
Facebook: House of Bole
2. Elekahia Bole Joint
Some of the spots located there are: Martha Bole Elekahia
Their menu includes a variety of options:
- Bole
- Roasted Yam
- Croaker Fish
- Fish tail
- Ugba
- Fish middle
- Fish Head
Reviews from a customer on Instagram,
Chiommy Bole
This spot is located at No. 13 Circular Road, Elekahia Housing Estate. It is celebrated for its delicious Bole.
They offer
- Bole
- Roasted Fish
- Roasted Yam
- Ugba
- Croaker Fish
- Fish head
- Fish tail
- Fish middle
3. Maleesky Special
It is a hot spot for better bole and sauce, located at 93 Ibeto Road, Old Port Harcourt Two, Port Harcourt 500101, Rivers.
Key Features
- Event catering
- Home/Office service
- Home delivery
Menu
- Bole
- Roasted Fish
- Potato mix and veggies
The menu comes in packs.
- Singles pack (major and minor)
- Couple pack
- Family pack (minor and major)
This review speaks of the awesomeness of this spot,
“It’s a place you can’t afford not to visit. The food served is the best, and wow, the fish is very spicy, and the Bole is hmm. I saved the next statement for you to complete when you visit …”
— Constance Aamen
For more Information,
Telephone: 0803 779 9079
Facebook: Maleesky Osadebe
Instagram: Maleesky Special
Twitter: Maleesky Special
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4. Chef Lozzy Bole Spot
Chef Lozzy Bole Spot is one of the famous Bole spots in Port Harcourt. It is located at 302 Woji Road, Elechi, Port Harcourt, 500101, Rivers.
The restaurant closes by 9 pm, and the environment is suitable for kids.
Menu
- Bole
- Fish
- Pepper sauce
“Kid-friendliness: Okay for kids…— May Onw
For more information,
Telephone: 0902 605 1044
5. Bole Village
It is located beside Queens Park Estate, Eneka Road, Rumunduru, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Menu
- Bole
- Grilled fish
- Grilled Chicken
This is a review from a customer,
“It was so great. I enjoyed myself.”
— Rutherford Anaba
For more information,
Telephone number: 0817 967 0902
Instagram: Bole village
Facebook: Bole village
Conclusion
Bole is not just a street food, it’s a sweet, spicy memory, a strong part of Port Harcourt’s street life, and something everyone can enjoy. From the smell of roasted plantain in the air to the spicy fish and pepper sauce, Bole brings joy to both young and old, rich and poor.
Whether you’re just visiting the city or you’ve lived in Port Harcourt all your life, there’s always a bole spot waiting to give you that smoky, tasty bite. And with so many great places to choose from, you’ll always find a flavour that feels like home.
So next time you’re in Port Harcourt, go out and try one of these famous Bole spots. Your taste buds will thank you.