Two Peas in a Pod

NEW ON THE BLOCK

by Sanaa Mughal and Lucy Munene

Sakina's BBQ

Photo by Lucy Munene

SAKINA’S BBQ

Located in a little corner in Karen, Sakina’s BBQ is a surprise and a delight. A family run business that specializes in Bohra cuisine, a traditional way of making food that combines culture and tradition that the Bohra people hold dear. One of these traditional ways of cooking and serving food is the Thal, a communal way of eating that represents the close community of the Bohras. The Thal is a large round metal plate, the eating focus where family members sit around it, sharing from the same plate, enjoying each of the courses coming their way. This is the meal that we enjoyed on a beautiful day, being warmly welcomed in, led to the Thal and sitting down on the floor rather ungracefully. Sakina, the owner of the restaurant, took us through this traditional meal from the square cloth called Safra that is placed on the carpet. Before the meal starts, we began by taking a grain of salt which is believed to clear the taste buds and cure many diseases. The meal began with salt and ended with salt and unlike most meals, the Bohra meal started with dessert, a delicious plate of sweetened rice called Sondanu and Julto Pool, a homemade custard with egg white island after which was followed by four other courses accompanied with pickles, and salads and ending with homemade coconut ice cream. Every meal was had together, no separate plates or even sections. Everything was shared and all the food was finished, with our hosts informing us on the importance of food and not allowing any to be wasted. The Thal dining experience is available upon request, but if it’s not your style, not to worry. Sakina and her son Mohammed have developed a regular menu with favourites like poussin chicken, bhajias and more.

Lido Lounge

Photo by Lucy Munene

LIDO LOUNGE AT WHITESANDS

The best thing about this job is that we get to travel and experience new things. The launch of the Lido Lounge in Whitesands is one of these new experiences. Everyone knows of Whitesands, the famous hotel with the beautiful pools so perfect for family trips and a popular destination during the holidays. But now, people can look forward to something more at Whitesands. Lido is known for their brilliant seafood, but now, you can enjoy your crab as well as great music and cocktails. The Lido Lounge is the new hot spot in Mombasa with an epic sea view, menu and bar; a bar that is run by The Bar Factory, a team of two mixologists who are experts at creating cocktails for bars providing unique combinations that stand out. During the Lido Lounge launch, they awed us with their various shot variations that had everyone gushing excitedly. The Lido Lounge is one of the ways Whitesands is now catering to all groups, no matter what you’re looking for. So if you’re looking for a true coast experience where you can dive into seafood, music, sea views and cocktails, this is your new spot!

Zantea

Photo by Lucy Munene

ZANTEA

This cute little spot is about to take all our money. Conveniently located in China Town along Ring Road Kilimani, ZanTea is a place that has been lovingly decorated by its owner and is run by her well-trained staff. On entering you’re received warmly and patiently taken through all your options each with its own clear picture so that you know what the final product is going to look like. I took along my colleague who picked the signature milk tea which is a delicious combination of fresh Kenyan milk, Kenyan and Chinese black tea and sweet squares of boba that make the ‘bubbles’ in bubble tea. I was drawn in by the mango tea which was made of white sand Chinese green tea and sweet Kenyan mangoes topped with the creamiest and smoothest cheese milk. The salty topping and sweet tea disappeared way too fast and I can say that they already have a loyal customer in me!

Zion Restaurant

Photo by Lucy Munene

ZION RESTAURANT

There is nothing better than a restaurant with a story. This particular one tells its story through the rustic furniture and the family pictures on the wall which give away that the place is a family establishment. The first thing that caught my eye when I walked in was the muted simplicity of the place. Dark walls, functional furniture and minimal clutter on the tables. In the warm afternoon sunlight, I enjoyed a welcome coffee and took in the peace and quiet of the Ngong area. Once the food was out I was sold.

Zion Restaurant

Photo by Lucy Munene

Between mouthfuls of tripe, egg and bean curry, lamb ramen and the most decadent chocolate cake I got to know the chef and resident DIY-er Sxzilawe who recently relocated from Uganda. He brought his excellent cooking skills and started off this cafe (and the regular farmers market that is held on their grounds) as a neighboorhood hang out. That was clearly evident as families trickled in later in the night to enjoy wine by the fireplace. You might want to come hungry and cancel any other plans because this is the kind of place you won’t be in a hurry to leave.