Ghana is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse animal life, and miles of sandy beaches along a beautiful coast. In addition, the country boasts a rich history and culture, most recently becoming one of the favorite destinations for African-Americans. However, the country can offer much more than that, as luxury restaurants in Ghana are also an option for locals and visitors.
Opened in 2020, El Padrino is one of the most recent luxury restaurants in Ghana, which has emerged in Accra as a haven for luxury enthusiasts, foodies, cigar aficionados, and celebrities from West Africa.
Ghanaian celebs like Juliet Ibrahim (a Ghanaian actress, film producer and singer), Nana Aba Anamoah (News anchor, broadcaster, media personality), Yvonne Nelson (a Ghanaian actress), and Kwesi Arthur (a Ghanaian rapper) are regulars. Africa’s most awarded hip hop star, Sarkodie celebrated his birthday at El Padrino with an intimate dinner for family and friends.
Open daily from noon for lunch until late night, El Padrino also hosts special events including cognac tastings, new product launches, private receptions, and corporate dinners.
The restaurant features a glass-enclosed temperature-controlled chamber that displays an expansive selection of Cuban cigars and cigarillos. In addition, they offer a diverse range of tobacco blends and cigar types such as Cohiba and Montecristo allowing both novices and aficionados an opportunity to indulge in the absolute highest quality in taste, aroma and ambiance.
“We opened our doors shortly before the Covid-19 pandemic which was one of the most challenging periods in recent history, especially for the hospitality industry. Thankfully we emerged through this time and have developed a very close-knit community of patrons who truly appreciate and reflect our vision of a luxury experience in dining and entertainment,” Paulo Borgi, Manager at El Padrino, told Travel Noire.
According to the manager, El Padrino has become one of Ghana’s top restaurants and a favorite of celebs and high profile personalities because of its exclusivity, luxury design, fine dining & bar and live music.
“Privacy is a high priority for celebrities and high profile personalities and El Padrino is a hidden gem for intimate dinners, drinks or meetings. They also require reservations to avoid overcrowding and adequate spacing between tables to ensure privacy,” said Borgi. The venue is nestled in a quaint corner of The Atlantic Tower in Airport City, a perfect hideaway to escape the Accra hustle.
The restaurant offers a decor that oozes luxury with its classic design in rich woods and leathers in deep browns and cream. The comfortable sofas and chairs are reminiscent of a salon of a distinguished home and afford guests maximum relaxation as they enjoy their food and drinks.
Borgi revealed that El Padrino has a continental fare including steak, seafood, pasta, and many fresh and healthy options for lunch and dinner. “The bar is complete with single malt whiskies, cognac, vintage rums, and wines to perfectly pair with a meal or for stand-alone enjoyment.”
The restaurant also houses the live Jazz & Blues Night event, one of Accra’s landmarks, with the De Dynamics band on Thursday evenings followed by DJ Night on Fridays and a live band on Saturdays. At times, guests such as KOD or Kwesi Arthur have jumped in with the band for a surprise performance.
El Padrino is located at The Atlantic Tower in Airport City, Accra.