Kigali is about to witness change for something new is around the corner. And when this change occurs, it will make a statement so bold, it will forever change the dining culture of Kigali. Now imagine a voiceover in baritone because I am looking for dramatic effect.

However, I am not talking about a Hollywood production here. I am talking about Inka, a restaurant that will be opening its doors to the public in a matter of hours (at the time of writing).

I have been to great places around Kigali but I assure you that there is none like this.

The first steak house in Kigali, Inka was a carefully planned project. The bar and lounge complete with 7 footer lamps, well positioned TV’s, a large enough counter, external toilets and a camp fire area for the cold nights are just what I would recommend for a relaxing evening with your boys or a date with your better half.

Fabulously laid out and well designed, the dining area has all the hallmarks of a steak house. From an era that is almost gone by, the leather booths remind me of a 40’s gangster movie complete with handsome dashing gentlemen with graceful ladies hanging on o their arms and their every word. As if that is not enough, a whiskey room (and cigars I bet) lies just off to the side. Immaculately furnished, this would be the spot for the discerning gentleman to aid his digestion. The middle area of the dining is a mix of two or more seater dining tables with comfortable cushioned chairs. All this underneath a vast, but very soft array of lights. A wine cabinet with a fine selection mostly from the Thelema winery in South Africa, graces the far corner. Beyond this lie the restrooms that have a very modern and hygienic look. You could eat in them.

The food.

A menu that will have the pickiest diner happy, Inka has once again set itself above the rest. The selection of steaks is the calling card here alongside a prawn salad, caprese salad and an Inka ceaser salad. If you desire a burger, you have not been forgotten.

For starters, my colleague and I were treated to a tomato, water melon and basil gazpacho and a marinated salmon carpaccio starter course. See pictures, they are real.

My entree was a full Kilogram of rib eye, on the full rib with a creamed spinach side while my colleague was treated to a sesame chicken with a ratatouille side. Again, nowhere have I seen anything like this in Kigali. The gauntlet has just been thrown down!

The owner

A sparkle in her eye and a red hot passion for her restaurant, Nicole is a delightful soul to be around. This reminds me of a sibling trio here in Kigali and this trait will definitely attract and maintain a good customer base. She was such a lovely host and when speaking about her restaurant, you could tell how much work, sweat and tears have gone into this project

Inka, located on KG650 in Kimuhurura and just a stone’s throw away from Romalo Guest house opened its doors to the public yesterday. If you are serious about fine dining, you will be in attendance. Consider that a piece of advice and I’ll see you there.