This place may have a familiar name, but trust me, this is no ordinary restaurant. Actually I think Flamingo Chinese Restaurant is the poshest joint to grace these pages and our town.

Located in Kimihurura, the first right turn after Kabindi, you proceed down the cobbled road and take on the second turn on your left. Don’t panic, there are small posters that will direct you.

The fleet of expensive cars assembled outside says it all. Open for little over a month and this place is a clear hit (particularly with mzungus who were out in force!).

Like many other restaurants, Flamingo was developed from a family house. The proprietors took out the windows and a majority of the inner walls, creating a spacious terrace for dining. Deep reds and Chinese lanterns make this a small part of China in Rwanda.

If you are lucky enough to get a table upstairs, views over the city are breath taking. We were chanced to be there at 8:00 pm, the stream of car lights from Sopetrad makes you think it’s the eighth wonder of the world.

When I visited the top floor w was reserved (- I think because of the world wonder.) I’m also told weekends are booked out.

The crowd is smart, maybe even corporate. My fellow diners included tycoon Ezra Bunyenyezi, Contact FM’s Albert Rudasimburwa, and a battalion of unfamiliar Bazungu.

The atmosphere here is pretty relaxed, with soft music playing in the background. Many people have light conversations, while others tables host family meetings or work dinners.

The menu is very wide. To give you an idea of prices Prawns cost between Frw8,000 and Frw12,000, sea food soup goes for Frw2,500, popular sizzlers range from Frw3,500 to Frw8,000, while a whole roasted Beijing duck goes for whopping Frw12,000.

I went for pork and the aromas emanating from the kitchen, told me I was in for a treat. They did not disappoint: it was the tenderest pork I’ve ever eaten. 

We washed the pork down with a couple of beers, and called it a day. We walked away about Frw5,000 poorer but wholly satisfied.

Service was pretty quick; f there is a delay, you’ll definitely forget about it once the food is on the table. Are you a vegetarian?

Dry your tears; there are plenty of treats in store for you. French beans, pumpkins, carrot and a variety of other vegetables are available.

For pudding there’s a choice of golden fried banana, pineapple with ice cream, or fresh fruit salad. And for those Chinese food lovers who can’t get away from the office, Flamingo delivers.

Flamingo is a great experience, ideal for a special treat or celebration. I’ll definitely be back hopefully with the most adorable person of my life in tow Marks: 9/10.

Ends