/ˈtʃɒp bɑː/
Definition:
A CHOP BAR is a small, informal Ghanaian restaurant that serves affordable local dishes like Fufu, Banku, Jollof Rice, and soups. These spots are known for their home-cooked taste and communal dining atmosphere.
- Synonyms: “Buka“ (Nigerian equivalent), “Cook Shop“, “Mama Put“, “Local Canteen”
- Antonyms: “Fine dining restaurant”, “Food delivery”, “Fast food chain”
Hear how native speakers pronounce CHOP BAR in the video below.
Usage Examples:
- Informal: “Make we go CHOP BAR, I dey crave fufu and light soup!” (Let’s go to a local eatery, I want fufu!)
- Formal: “CHOP BARs are essential for affordable meals in Ghanaian communities.”
- Idiomatic: “CHOP BAR food sweet pass 5-star hotel!” (Local food tastes better than expensive restaurants!)
Cultural Context:
Origin:
The term CHOP BAR originates from two English words: “Chop”, which means “to eat” in Ghanaian Pidgin English, and “Bar”, which refers to a place where people gather to consume food and drinks. The phrase was coined to describe informal restaurants that serve traditional Ghanaian meals, often in an open-air setting.
CHOP BARS have existed for decades as an essential part of Ghanaian food culture. They evolved from small street food vendors who provided quick, affordable meals to workers, travelers, and students. Over time, these food stalls developed into semi-permanent structures where customers could sit and eat, leading to the widespread use of the term CHOP BAR.
Regional Usage:
The term CHOP BAR is predominantly used in Ghana, where Pidgin English is commonly spoken alongside local languages such as Twi, Ga, and Ewe. CHOP BARs can be found in both urban and rural areas, offering traditional dishes like Waakye, Banku, Kenkey, and Tilapia.
Although the phrase is most commonly used in Ghana, its concept is similar to local eateries found across West Africa. In Nigeria, a similar establishment is called a “Buka” or “Mama Put,” while in Sierra Leone and Liberia, the term Cook Shop is used instead. Due to the influence of Ghanaian culture and cuisine in the diaspora, the term CHOP BAR is also recognized by Ghanaians living abroad.
Now it’s your turn! Use CHOP BAR in a sentence in the comments. Would you say “I dey go CHOP BAR go chop banku” or “Which CHOP BAR near here get the best Tilapia?” Drop your sentences and let’s chat!