A neighborhood maquis on Rue 12 in Treichville known for its fisherman's soup, a local bouillabaisse-style dish made with red palm oil and attiéké. It is a favorite among Abidjan diners seeking a specific, harder-to-find regional dish.
Chez Amma Sawa is a modest, neighborhood maquis on Rue 12 in Treichville best known for its fisherman's soup, a rich, red-palm-oil-based dish in the style of a bouillabaisse, loaded with fish and served with attiéké to soak up the broth. It is a dish not found on every Abidjan menu, and diners specifically interested in regional Ivorian coastal cooking often seek this maquis out for it. Beyond the soup, the kitchen serves standard maquis fare, grilled fish with attiéké and sauce graine with rice, in the simple, functional setting typical of the genre: plastic tables, an open or semi-covered dining area, and a no-frills approach to service. Prices are moderate, with the fisherman's soup and other mains typically 2,500-6,000 XOF. The atmosphere is relaxed and neighborhood-oriented rather than touristic, and no reservation is needed. For visitors interested in a specific, less commonly served Ivorian coastal dish, Chez Amma Sawa is a worthwhile detour into Treichville.
| Price | $$ |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 11AM-10PM |
| Reservations | Not accepted; walk-in only |
| Address | Rue 12, Treichville, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire |
Signature dishes
- Fisherman's soup with red palm oil
- Grilled fish with attiéké
- Sauce graine with rice
Good to know
- Known for
- Ivorian fisherman's soup; known for red palm oil broth with attiéké
Location
Rue 12, Treichville, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
5.2915, -4.0089 View on map
Highlights
- Known specifically for its red-palm-oil fisherman's soup
- A regional dish not commonly found on standard Abidjan menus
- Simple, neighborhood maquis setting on Rue 12 in Treichville
- Moderate pricing and a relaxed, local atmosphere
Tips for visiting
- Order the fisherman's soup as the restaurant's defining dish
- Pair the soup with attiéké to soak up the broth in the traditional style
- Arrive with cash, as maquis do not typically accept cards
- Visit at lunch for the freshest preparation of the soup
When to visit
Lunch is the traditional time to order the fisherman's soup at its freshest.
Accessibility
Seating is at ground level on simple furniture typical of a neighborhood maquis, which may be uneven for wheelchair users.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chez Amma Sawa known for?
Its fisherman's soup, a bouillabaisse-style dish made with red palm oil, served with attiéké, on Rue 12 in Treichville.
Is the fisherman's soup common elsewhere in Abidjan?
No, it is a regional specialty not commonly found on standard restaurant menus, which is why this maquis draws diners specifically for it.
Is it expensive?
No, it is moderately priced, with the soup and other mains typically 2,500-6,000 XOF (about USD 4.37-10.49).
Do I need a reservation?
No, it operates on a walk-in basis typical of neighborhood maquis.