This is perhaps the newest entrant on the ever-expanding local Chinese culinary scene. And while the typical Asian eatery will stand out on account of the red-themed interior décor synonymous with Oriental establishments, Century Restaurant strikes a more sublime look, with impeccably white walls juxtaposed against a lush green park. Standing outside looking in, or even at the restaurant, nothing seems to warn you before-hand of its Oriental leanings. Past the reception is a down-ward-bound glass staircase that ushers you into the restaurant, a large, open-wall enclave marked by live potted plants in large vases, huge round pillars, and a commanding view of the gardens and the nearby Nyarutarama Golf Course. They have two private meeting areas that are large enough to host small group events and meals. Beyond the private rooms and dining area is a private conference hall that is popular with VIP events, be they birthdays, corporate luncheons and think-tanks. Back to the restaurant, we were told they do Cantonese food, (food from the Canton (Guangzhou) region in China. We were not sure how different Cantonese is from mainstream Chinese food (where else have you heard of it in Kigali?), and the only viable option seemed to be in the trying, which we did. On an early Monday evening we went in for the spare ribs, ordering a plate for two, knowing how generously-sized the portions in Asian establishments can get. Ours was more a mission to know what Cantonese food is –what sets it apart from other Oriental food, as opposed to eating and filling our stomachs. The spare ribs we dug into came a lot lighter, less oily, and without “too much” chilli, and indeed, the manager, Rowland, later confirmed these to be the defining aspects of food from this region. Generally, they are big on stir-fried meats, as opposed to big sauces and complicated recipes common with Asian food outlets. Come here if you are into fancy dining, as they do have the famed Chinese Fondue –a live cooking table that enables diners to prepare their own food from the comfort of their dining table. Basically what they do is provide your table with raw meat, complete with all spices and condiments, and the cooking is all yours to do. With its open walls, the restaurant offers not only the best place to sit when you visit, but also a fresh and relaxing dining experience. It can further be turned into a venue for almost any kind of event –corporate launches, luncheons and get-togethers, wedding and birthday receptions …name it. For those with kids, they have a little play section equipped with modern children’s play amenities. Being just over two months in business, construction works still abound on the site, although so quietly and neatly you won’t notice. It is upon completion of these works that the restaurant will truly bask in its full name, Century Park Restaurant and Residences.
