Dept. of Culture

So glad I got to finally experience this place! -Reservations mandatory -BYOB -Communal seating -4 courses presented with an introduction by chef Ayo -Substitutes provided for food allergies and other dietary restrictions without sacrificing quality Contemporary Nigerian cuisine in a warm, communal environment. I believe the meal offerings rotate, but on the evening I dined, we were served: spicy red snapper and cilantro soup, black eyed peas with pepper, smoked herring and tilapia atop pounded corn, and fried sugar-coated plantain with vanilla ice cream. Each dish has a Nigerian name; I'm only describing the components of each dish for clarity. Each dish was amazing, featuring balanced flavors and just the right amount of spice (y'all know I don't want ethnic restaurants to sacrifice spice just to appeal to a broader audience). A person next to me had a fish allergy. Substitutions we're provided, and they said that each alternative they received was delicious. My only change recommendation is for the fried sugar-coated plantain to be plated directly atop the ice cream scoop. That way, the sugar won't fuse to the plate as it cools and the ice cream can meld into the plantain a bit prior to eating. Will definitely book again!

I prepaid for a dinner reservation and when I showed up at the restaurant, there was a sign on the door that said the restaurant was closed due to a plumbing issue. Despite 4 attempts to contact the restaurant to request a refund, I've received no answer after 2 weeks of failed attempts. Bummer because I really wanted to try out this place!

Second time visiting Dept of Culture and Chef Ayo did not disappoint. Different menu but same incredible experience. So grateful that he’s bringing North-Central Nigerian flavors to Bed-Stuy!

Thought this place was overrated for the price point, but I did enjoy the atmosphere. The dishes are all pretty basic though and not adventurous.

***BYOB*** This restaurant is excellent. Delicious, thoughtful, and fun! Double check your reservation to be sure you bought enough spots! Go here :)

Very interesting experience combining food and the chef's Nigerian experience as he grew up while in a warm communal setting. Food was different from what we usually eat but was still good.

One of the best meals I’ve had in NYC. Strong and diverse flavors with high quality ingredients cooked to perfection by a humble and genuine team

The hype is real. 10/10 and I won’t say more than that bc I’m trying to limit my screen time (new year new me, lols) but if you’re able to snag a reso, DO IT. Alright I’ll leave some pics