If you live in Lagos and you are trying to get some affordable cookware without breaking the bank, China Town is one of those places that really surprises you once you step in.

The first time I went, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had just heard people say you could get cheap but good quality pots, pans, and kitchen stuff there. Getting there is easier than it sounds. If you are coming from the Island or mainland, just head to Ojota. From the Ojota bus stop, you can hop on a keke or bike and tell the driver you are going to China Town. Almost everyone knows it, so you won’t get lost. Once you arrive, you will notice a cluster of small shops packed with all kinds of kitchen items.

What hits you first is the variety. Everywhere you look, there are pots of all sizes, frying pans, saucepans, utensils, chopping boards, and even full kitchen sets. You can compare prices from shop to shop, which is great because some items are surprisingly cheap while others look almost the same but cost double.

It is not just cookware either. You will also find blenders, rice cookers, electric kettles, small ovens, storage containers, plates, cups, and even little things you didn’t know you needed until you see them. Some shops also have small home decor, lights, and household essentials. You can honestly spend hours just exploring and discovering random, useful things.

A little tip: go early in the day before it gets too crowded, take cash or have your mobile payment ready, and be patient. It is easy to get overwhelmed, but walking through the shops slowly and checking multiple stores will help you get the best deals.

The experience itself is part of the fun. It doesn’t feel like your typical market chaos. There is a rhythm to it, and you feel like you are on a little shopping adventure. By the time you leave, you might have bought more than you planned, but you also feel like you got proper value for your money.

China Town is definitely one of those hidden gems that Lagos has.

Have you ever been there or found something amazing at China Town? Drop your best finds!