Cream brulee at Kigali Serena

Hotels in Kigali are not renowned for serving haute cuisine much less fare that goes beyond the heights of the unusual and sublime. I have discovered, there is something admirable and unique about the Serena brand that goes beyond borders that ensures that no matter where it is to be found excellence is always sine qua non.

During my recent sojourn in Kigali, it was a wondrous pleasure to dine (more than once) at the Kigali Serena Hotel and have such an amazing repast from which to choose. In terms of soups, one may happen to come across a carrot and roasted capsicum or a sublime cream of garden peas not to forget one of our all time favorite; pumpkin soup.

Salad entrees can range from cherry and tear drop lentil with sesame seeds and coriander or ever so delectable crispy duck with mango and chili lime dressing to the classic salad Nicoise broad bean salad.

Cold cuts is another specialty of the Serena brand where at times you will find vine-ripped tomatoes and feta cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, smoked beef, stuffed chicken ballontine. Occasionally and when it strikes the mood of the chef, he will come up with a medley of sushi comprising seafood, vegetable or beef.

The main course is deservedly the piece de resistance as befits a property of this stature and here the choices can be legion with such recondite offerings (for this part of the world) as seared salmon on couscous rice, baked pork loin and something plain and ordinary such as ground nut sauce.

Now and again, one will find the chef has tossed in a simple but classical Roman dish fettuccine all’ Alfredo is simply tossed with heavy cream, butter, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Occasionally, chefs may take license and add peas and strips of ham to somewhat embellish the dish.

I would be remiss in not mentioning the traditional Rwandese Akabenzi a.k.a fried pork and is very popular in the country. Simply grilled and crispy and tender it was an ideal finger food that I loved. Carbs take the form of pasta Napolitan or Bolognaise, fried sweet potatoes or mashed

if you go...

Name: Serena Kigali Hotel, Milima Restaurant
Location: Kigali
The space: Expansive and idyllic with a nice al fresco setting
The crowd: The well-heeled of Kigali and those visiting
The menu: Buffet
The bar: Very well stocked
The type of food: Global in scope with a touch of local fare jazzed up
The check: Around the $25 mark per person
Parking: Never a problem
If you go: Monday to Friday
Rating: Not to be missed

RATINGS: Not to be missed, worth a visit, OK/so so, don’t waste your time.