Nestled amidst the secluded residential neighbourhood in Kizingo, is the courtyard of one place that is most certainly amongst the best in Mombasa. I have been here twice in a month’s span, and have not been disappointed on either of the two visits.
Diners have a choice of sitting inside on one of two levels, or taking in the fresh air under the large canopies on the corner of this commercial building. There are plenty of tables to choose from both inside and out – either way, both offer different ambiances during the course of your meal. Should you choose to sit inside, the decor is quite interesting; coloured tiles skilfully arranged depict a large mural of an animated forest, while the waterfall that once was, is now replaced with decor that complement the tiled art. On the other hand, sitting along the sandy street corner constitutes a peaceful and relaxed mode (but only if you request the music be turned off).
The menu is not daunting – a small card that lists a combination of grilled meats, vegetables, and various accompaniments that do not take all day to select. We ordered mixed tikka grill, chips pilipili, chuzi chicken, and an accompaniment of buttered naan. The mixed grill was a delightful platter of chicken kebab, beef kebab, lamb chops, beef cubes (mishkaki), and boneless chicken tikka. On all of my visits to various barbecue hot spots within the Island and beyond, I was quite impressed with their selection and quality offered.
I particularly enjoy the lamb chops, grilled to perfection with a bursting flavours. The chuzi chicken was an interesting selection; a whole spring chicken accompanied by a tangy spiced sauce. In all, their dishes seem to exact the right amount of spices and flavour that make the experience quite worth it.
While I have not been to this place on a crowded night, the service is quite outstanding on its own merit. Their helpings are quite generous, and along with that, the value for money is simply in line with ones expectations.
The meal ends with a warm bowl of water with a sliver of lemon to wash our hands, rounding it off beautifully with deep fried milk balls (gulab jamun) soaked in sugar syrup and skewered onto toothpicks – unique and impressive as far as the final touch. Though I must admit, the gulab jamun are not very fresh. I would strongly recommend this place if you wish to entertain guests – or maybe yourselves once in a while.
Service ****
Value *****
Cuisine *****
Price $$
