South African Restaurant Group Opens First East Africa Outlet in Nairobi

South African restaurant group Taste of Cape Town has made its debut in East Africa by opening its first permanent outlet in Nairobi, Kenya. The establishment offers a distinctive fusion of South African cuisine and wines, tailored to the local palate. The restaurant's menu features a wide array of dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal, including Cape Malay curries, wood-fired meats, and seafood.

In a bid to incorporate local produce, the outlet incorporates seasonal ingredients sourced from East Africa, thus creating a unique blend of South African culinary traditions and East African produce.

The opening of the restaurant is a clear indication of the expanding business, travel, and cultural ties between Kenya and South Africa. As South African High Commissioner to Kenya Salome Zulu Baloi put it, the arrival of the restaurant in Nairobi is a reflection of the deep-seated connection between the two nations. “For years we have welcomed Kenyan visitors into our kitchens and dining rooms in Cape Town. They have brought energy, curiosity, and a genuine love for our food,” she added.

The Nairobi outlet aims to bridge the gap between Kenyans and South Africans by allowing them to savor South African cuisine without the need for a trip across the globe. The menu draws from the diverse food traditions of South Africa, with a particular emphasis on the Cape and KwaZulu-Natal regions. Seasonal East African ingredients are seamlessly woven into selected dishes, thus creating a menu that is distinctly South African yet distinctly East African.

The interior of the restaurant has been designed to capture the essence of Cape Town, with inspiration drawn from the city’s iconic harbour and vibrant street culture. This design, coupled with the food, wine, and ambiance, is intended to provide diners with an all-encompassing South African experience, extending beyond just the meal.

Taste of Cape Town's decision to establish a permanent presence in Nairobi is a direct response to the increasing demand for South African food, spurred by the growing travel between Kenya and South Africa. The two countries share strong links in tourism, business, and investment, with regular travel between Nairobi and major South African cities fostering enhanced interaction between consumers and businesses.