Well done local fare

Beehive Restaurant in Mengo has been going strong for more than six years and from the look of things they are here to stay. Located in not exactly a prime location when it comes to dining out. but this inadequacy is more than compensated by the presence of a major university.

Admittedly, with the location of a major campus of Ndejje University on neighbouring Balintuma Road, this has brought about much needed activity in the community. However, the chief beneficiaries seem to be the many internet cafes that are plenty where hitherto one would find boarded up and vacant property. Needless to say, university students and coeds must eat and this has never been in doubt.

Menu and pricing
However, chicken and chips at around Shs15,000 is not what one would consider to be pocket friendly. This is certainly out of the reach of most of them, who no doubt cannot afford such prices. On the other hand, while not suggesting kikomando (beans and chapatti), or rolex, Beehive is a bit more up market for that and they have had to think of something that can pull the campus crowd and yet be affordable.
If I am not mistaken, this joint does well with things such as chips, chaps, samosas, katogo and of course the local food which is affordable.

Experience
Last Sunday, we went there for lunch. Despite the fact that it was past noon, the lunch menu posted was not yet ready. In the end we settled for chicken and chips and, matooke with sweet potato, pilao beef stew. The food was reasonably good though the matooke was more than par for the course. The chicken and chips were nothing to write home about, and as for the chips I prefer mine crunchy and almost brittle-like in appearance which was not the case.

Verdict
The waitresses are smart in their uniforms which is laudable and add a touch of class to the place. Unfortunately, when they are not busy, they are inclined to lounge on the veranda slouched as if ready to sleep. I know life in the service retail sector is akin to that of a dog’s life; but such slovenly behaviour does not give customers a positive or good impression. Perfect posture and a smile at all times is one of the necessary ingredients of the trade.

The deal
Place: Bee Hive Restaurant
Address: Sentema Road, Mengo near Kaki fuel station
Rating: Worth a visit
Smoke-free zone: Allowed on the verandah
Menu: Good and well-prepared local fare
Recommended item: They do good stews and we love their katogo
Damage: Shs20,000 will do for two
Service: Good
Ambience: Could be better
Parking: On the street

RATINGS: These views are purely the reviewer’s personal reaction to food, ambience and service with price being factored into consideration. The menu listings and prices are subject to change without notice.