Restaurants Review - Uncategorized

Fall in Love with West African Cuisine in Nairobi

One sunny Sunday afternoon, I found myself at The Waterfront Mall, casually shopping and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Hunger struck, and I decided it was time for a meal. As always, I gravitated towards CJ’s—their generous portions never disappoint. However, the place was packed, leaving me to explore other options. That’s when I stumbled upon Mama Ashanti, a restaurant I’d never tried before. Its relatively quiet ambiance and spacious seating drew me in.

I chose a cozy spot near the transparent wall overlooking the bustling walkway, where children gleefully headed to the mall’s massive playground. The restaurant’s decor was charming, with a tasteful design that added to the experience, though not as grand as some other Nairobi establishments. Shortly after settling in, a server arrived with the menu. That’s when I discovered the restaurant’s specialty—West African cuisine! Intrigued, I asked the server for a moment to scan the unfamiliar offerings.

I thought of leaving to check out other restaurants available but my mind drifted to the iconic jollof rice I’d often seen in Nigerian cooking videos online. With no reservations about trying new spices, I decided to give it a shot. Priced at Ksh 950, it seemed reasonable. To accompany the dish, I ordered an orange lemonade for Ksh 450.

The wait wasn’t long—just 20 minutes—and when my food arrived, it was worth every second. The jollof rice was bursting with flavor, perfectly spiced, and paired with tender, flavorful meat. I savored every bite, leaving my plate spotless except for the bones. The orange lemonade was a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the dish however the lemons and mint leaves were more than the drink. Safe to say, my first venture into West African cuisine was a  success.

This experience left me with a golden rule: when visiting a restaurant specializing in a specific cuisine, always opt for their signature dish. It’s the best way to ensure a satisfying meal. For Mama Ashanti, the jollof rice is undoubtedly a must-try.

If you’re planning to visit, the minimum budget per person is around Ksh 1,500, which includes a meal and a non-alcoholic drink. For those open to exploring West African dishes, I wholeheartedly recommend this spot. The flavors, the atmosphere, and the unique culinary experience make it worth your while. I’m already looking forward to my next visit for another round of that unforgettable jollof rice!

jollof

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