Suya is West Africa’s iconic street grill—thin-sliced beef or chicken kissed with yaji (peanut-chili spice), finished over open flame, and served with onions and tomatoes. If you’re in the DMV, here are real, verified places where you can get the good stuff now.
Why These Spots Stand Out
Every pick below explicitly lists suya on its menu or ordering pages (or specializes in it). You’ll find everything from classic beef skewers to modern riffs—and plenty of Nigerian-owned kitchens keeping suya culture alive.
Top Suya in the DMV
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Spice Kitchen West African Grill — Hyattsville & Bowie, MD
What to know: A suya playground—steak, chicken, lamb chops, shrimp, even suya-spiced wings; two locations plus online ordering. Why go: Consistent smoke + yaji heat with lots of combo options. -
Miya Lounge — Beltsville, MD (plus DC pickup)
What to know: Suya plates, Make-Your-Own Suya Bowl, and suya add-ons alongside Cameroonian staples. Why go: Versatile menu (beef/chicken suya, bowls, and sides) at a true community hub. -
Bukom Cafe — Adams Morgan, DC
What to know: A DC classic with chicken/beef suya as a menu staple (also listed on their online ordering). Why go: Old-school vibes, live music nights, and peppery suya that regulars swear by. -
Calabash African Cuisine & Bar — Alexandria, VA
What to know: Starters include “Suya – 3 spicy skewered beef kebabs.” Why go: Casual, friendly spot on the Virginia side when the suya craving hits. -
Naija Cafe & Restaurant — Clinton, MD
What to know: Suya (3 sticks) is on the menu alongside pepper soup and asun; Nigerian home-style flavors. Why go: Straightforward suya fix in PG County, easy for takeout. -
Jolloff Etcetera — Hyattsville, MD
What to know: Suya appears on the small plates/appetizers; build plates with jollof, plantains, and suya. Why go: Quick add-on for that classic suya + jollof combo. -
The Continent DC — Downtown, DC
What to know: Chicken Suya and wings dusted with dry-rubbed suya spice feature on the menu. Why go: Upscale setting to introduce friends to suya without losing authenticity. -
Suya Spot Nigerian Grill — Owings Mills & Towson, MD (Baltimore County)
What to know: A suya specialist—beef, lamb (ram), chicken, shrimp, catfish, plus the Ultimate Suya Platter. Why go: Road-trip worthy for a dedicated suya menu. -
Project Suya — Bowie, MD (delivery/pickup)
What to know: Suya bowls and trays (17–40 oz) and suya spice mixes; online ordering via apps. Why go: Party-size suya or late-night bowl when you want volume. -
Rahama Restaurant & Catering — Silver Spring, MD
What to know: Ghanaian/West African kitchen with suya noted by diners and on delivery listings. Why go: One stop for waakye, jollof—and a side of suya.
