I’m going to share where I ate and relaxed across Accra last Detty December, along with some trusted recommendations from my friend Justine, who helped create this live list that is updated periodically based on her long-term stay in Ghana, including insights from locals and visitors, from upscale sushi to local waakye. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

• This is a comprehensive guide based on my visit to Accra last Detty December.
• Every spot listed was either visited or personally vetted by me or trusted friends and locals.
• Organized by categories: restaurants, nightlife, activities, grocery/liquor stores, beauty, and spas.
• Includes full location info and Instagram handles when available.

Restaurants: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner & Snacks

One thing to keep in mind is that service can be very slow. Everyone takes their time here; no one is in a real rush unless you request rush service, even during Detty December.

The waiting and timeline for service can be extremely long, especially in Detty December and January. Don’t plan to rush through a meal, but instead, show up and go with the flow, enjoying your time at each location.

Asian, Afro-Asian, Mediterranean

• Santoku – High-end Japanese, sleek décor, perfect for a night out.
• Skybar 25 – Rooftop bar/restaurant, great views, and grilled seafood.
• Kozo – Afro-Asian fusion, moody lighting, and aesthetic plating. Reservation required.
• La Chaumiere – Elegant French Mediterranean with cozy indoor seating. 
• Shogun – Stylish Japanese dining with sushi and ramen.
• Bosphorus Accra – Turkish food with a romantic vibe.

Ghanaian & Local

• Buka – Classic Ghanaian eatery with hearty portions.
• Dimaensa – Trendy chop bar with upscale plating.
• Rockz Waakye – Delicious, filling waakye.
• The Ivorian Place – Osu-based, West African flavors.

Cafes, Brunch, and Bakeries

• La Gardenia – An aesthetic brunch spot with great food.
• Urban Green Kitchen – Earthy café in Achimota.
• The Cupcake Boutique – Beautiful pastries and desserts.
• No. X Restaurant – Modern Ghanaian-European dishes.
• East End Bistro – Great brunch and cocktails.
• Chocolate Saray – Sweet, chocolate-rich desserts.
• Kukun – Café for creatives with greenery.
• Treehouse – Chill bar-food spot.
• Telande Tea Garden – Gorgeous tea garden.
• Vine – Wine and small bites in East Legon.
• Jams Juices – Smoothies and healthy juices.
• Castillo – Mexican food and margaritas.
• Bondai – Tapas and Mediterranean.
• Rose Garden – Garden brunch and cocktails.
• The Good Baker – Bakes and pastries. 
• Cafe Kwae – Cozy café and laptop spot.
• Kwae Terrace – Rooftop brunch.
• Cafe Accra – Great croissants and coffee.
• Petite Dejeuner – Breakfast sets and crepes.
• Jamestown Coffee Roasters – For coffee lovers.
• Pan and Cook – Stylish crepe house.
• DLT Brunch – Pop-up brunch with DJs.

Bars & Clubs

Accra’s nightlife moves fast – rooftop drinks, beachside lounges, and members-only clubs all coexist in one scene. Here are some spots I’ve visited during Detty December (and would visit again), as well as other highly recommended spots by locals and frequenters.

• Purple Pub – Open-air vibes and day-to-night energy (Ring Rd E)
• Alley Bar – Trendy hangout in Osu (Nyaniba Estates)
• Villa Monticello – Sleek hotel lounge bar (Airport Residential)
• La Borracha – Tequila and tacos with a crowd (Dade St)
• Sandbox Beach – Beachfront day-to-night spot
• Mood Bar – Cocktails, moody lighting, and DJs (Ring Road)
• Zen Garden – Live band nights in a cozy garden (Orphan Cress)
• Garage Lounge – Hookah and dinner crowd (Boundary Rd)
• Honeysuckle – Pub style and sports (Ring Rd)
• Coco Vanilla Lounge – East Legon’s favorite for music and drinks
• Republic Bar – Palm wine cocktails and live sets (Osu)
• Bloom Bar – Peak Detty December energy, all year (Troas St)
• Exhale Lounge – Lounge vibes and good playlists (Garden Rd)
• The Hangout – Chill and social (Sprintex Rd)
• Kempinski Hotel – Sophisticated nightcap or pregame
• Coppa Cocktails – Chic rooftop cocktail spot (Oxford St)
• Country Club / Ernestos – Hidden Trassaco gem
• The Tunnel Lounge – Music and bottle service crowd (Kofi Annan St)
• Front/Back – Invite-only artsy lounge and events (First Osu Ln)
• Twist – Longstanding nightclub energy (Ndabaningi Sithole Rd)
• Pitch – Rooftop drinks over Airport Rd
• Sundaze – Weekly Sunday day parties
• Ace Tantra – Amapiano nights, service (GY Odoi St)
• Elite Bar – Local vibes in Madina (Boundary Rd)
• The Corner – Hard to find, but a known locals’ spot

Things to Do in Accra

Between historic landmarks, beaches, markets, and adventure parks, there’s no reason to be bored in Accra, especially in Detty December. These are some of the places I explored or had on my itinerary last December.

• Makola Market – An open market for fabrics, food, and souvenirs. Best early in the day, before 12 pm.
• Black Star Gate – Landmark for Independence Square, photos, and national pride.
• Osu Castle – Coastal colonial castle with deep history and sea views.
• Legon Botanical Gardens – Zip-lining, rope walks, and relaxing lake views.
• Kwame Nkrumah Memorial & National Park – Learn Ghana’s story while walking peaceful grounds.
• Oxford Street – Osu’s main strip with food, shopping, and energy.
• Adom Waterfalls – A Refreshing short hike and scenic reward outside town.
• Labadi Beach – Horses, music, and beach food. Lively on weekends.
• Accra Mall – Shopping, dining, and cinema — local and international brands.
• Achimota Mall – More local feel, fewer crowds.
• Ada Art Gallery – A small but impressive selection of African modern art.
• Bojo Beach – A Calm and cleaner beach reached by canoe ride.
• Cape Coast Castle – Powerful and moving experience. Must-see for diaspora travelers.
• Kakum National Park – Famous canopy walkway and rainforest walk near Cape Coast.
• Accra Safari and Boat Cruise – A Newer experience near the Shai Hills area.
• Accra Zoo – Compact zoo with a good variety of animals.
• Bliss (Arcade/Bowling/Trampoline) – Great for families or rainy days.
• Happy Art Academy – Make-your-own pottery classes and artsy fun.
• Paintball Gods – Group activity zone for adrenaline and friendly competition.

Grocery & Liquor Stores

If you’re cooking at home, grabbing essentials, or stocking up before a night out, these stores came in clutch.

• Shoprite – Osu & Accra Mall – Well-stocked for snacks, drinks, and staples.
• Koala – Osu – Great for imported goods and toiletries.
• Spar – Kaneshie – Spacious layout and full produce section.
• American Groceries – Bawaleshie Branch – Your go-to for cereal, almond milk, and snacks.
• American Grocery & Organic Foods – Clean and stocked with wellness items.
• Liquor Junction – Easy stop for rum, wine, and mixers.
• Say Cheers – Labone, Accra Mall, Dzorwulu – Wine and spirits with a decent selection.
• L’exquis Wine and Spirits – Upscale picks and fine liquor.
• Queen Bee Wine Shop – Cute shop with a good variety.
• The Cave / Marina – Osu – Last-minute runs or everyday pickups.

Spas & Beauty

December is hectic. These are some go-tos when you need a moment of stillness- or a refresh.

• Braids&Beyond – a luxury hair salon that offers a VIP experience.
• Lynettes – Nail salon with solid service and classic polish.
• Polish’d Beauty Bar – Clean, stylish, and great gel sets.
• Nailed by Cilla – Social media favorite. Book early.
• DeeBevNails – Friendly, fast, and flexible with walk-ins.
• Glitz Nails (A&C Mall) – Reliable makeup service with great reviews.
• Allure Bloom – East Legon – Lash extensions that hold up.
• The Beauty Ville – Lash techs who take their time.

• Kempinski Hotel Spa – Worth it for a full-body massage and a luxury feel.
• Labadi Beach Spa – Post-beach reset with full spa menu.
• Kora Spa – Affordable, peaceful, and well-kept.
• EuroSpa – Offers good pricing and a wide range of treatments.
• Blush – A&C Mall – One-stop shop for nails, facials, and brows.

With this detailed list of not only food and activities, but also self-care, spa, and hair services, enjoying your time in Ghana won’t require much consideration.

This post is based on my experience in Accra, as well as recommendations from trusted locals and friends.