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Introduction
DeeBesties is Moose Jaw’s newest restaurant, strategically located downtown, right by the famous Moose Jaw Tunnels. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, DeeBesties offers a warm, welcoming space where you can enjoy authentic Nigerian food and soak in authentic Nigerian vibes.
Menu Offerings
DeeBesties boasts a diverse menu featuring traditional Nigerian dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes. Signature offerings include:
- Gizzdodo: A delightful mix of gizzards and plantain.
- Jollof Rice: A classic Nigerian favorite.
- Ata Dindin: A savory dish featuring beef, egg, and dried fish in pepper sauce.
- Agege Bread: Freshly made, soft, and fluffy bread.
For those with a sweet tooth, DeeBesties also offers delectable desserts such as brownies and ice cream.
Quote from the Owner:
“We have several dishes,” said owner, Adeola Afolayan. “So, even if you get a different dish every week, it will take you a while to finish the whole menu.”
Additional Services
In addition to their dine-in offerings, DeeBesties provides event catering services. They plan to host a variety of events, including wing nights, and soccer nights.
Special Promotion:
Tourists visiting from out of town can enjoy 20% off their first meal, giving them a perfect opportunity to experience the rich flavors of Nigerian cuisine.
Background and Inspiration
After relocating from the United Kingdom to British Columbia in 2020, Adeola and her husband moved to Saskatchewan in 2021, Adeola fell in love with Moose Jaw and its community. However, she noticed a lack of cultural spaces catering to the Nigerian population.
Quote from the Owner:
“We realized that there are so many Nigerian international students here, but they don’t really have their own cultural space here,” Adeola shared. “We felt like we needed to bring that variety of food, something different from what Moose Jaw is used to, and create a place where people can watch European football (soccer) and feel that home away from home.”
Grand Opening Success
DeeBesties recently celebrated their grand opening and received an overwhelming response from the community.
Owner’s Reflection:
“I worried how people were going to like something way different from what they’re used to. But the turnout was really good. I really appreciate the people of Moose Jaw, and some people even came from outside Moose Jaw.”
Cultural Connection
What truly sets DeeBesties apart is the authentic Nigerian ambiance, reflected in the traditional music and artwork displayed throughout the restaurant.
One notable artwork depicts a typical scene from Nigeria, where a person on a bus yell out the destination.
Cultural Insight:
“So this is how you get on the bus in Nigeria,” explained Adeola. “People get up at 4:00 am to go to work, to avoid the traffic which starts at 5:00 am. You have to yell to get the bus to stop, and then run to get on. Someone leans out the window and yells to people on the street where the bus is going.”
She added with a laugh, “I know it sounds crazy. My bartender says it gives him anxiety whenever he looks at the picture. But this is exactly how it is from day-to-day.”
Other artworks showcase traditional Nigerian dress and the Cathedral Church, adding to the cultural authenticity of the restaurant. These little touches provide a sense of home for Nigerians and a cultural experience for everyone else.
Invitation to Experience DeeBesties
Whether you’re a Nigerian student missing home or a local looking for good food and good fun, Adeola invites everyone to come and enjoy the food and “Nigerian vibes” at DeeBesties.
Connect with Us:
Find DeeBesties on Facebook at DeeBesties Food Range.