BEST BRUNCH SPOTS IN KIGALI

The Rwandan capital really knows how to do the popular lifestyle-driven mid-morning meal. Here are our favourite weekend spots for a long, lazy brunch.

Kigali Serena Hotel: Central Kigali

If you’re in the mood for a slow Sunday, the luxurious brunches at the five-star Serena Hotel are hard to top. From 12 pm to 3.30 pm, the award-winning Milima Restaurant rolls out an all-you-can-eat buffet with stations offering both international dishes and local favourites. The non-alcoholic brunch includes a generous selection of freshly pressed juices, while the boozy version features free-flowing bubbly, house wines, and local beers. It’s a popular pick for families, with a vast spread that includes crowd-pleasers like hot dogs, waffles, and pancakes.

When: Sundays, 12 pm–3.30 pm

Don’t miss: The freshly made cakes and pastries are worth saving room for.

Prices:

• Non-alcoholic brunch: RWF 40,000 (US$28)

• Alcoholic brunch: RWF 65,000 (US$45)

• Kids’ brunch: RWF 22,000 (US$15)

More info: www.serenahotels.com/kigali

La Creola Restaurant & Lounge: Kimihurura

Known for its blend of Caribbean and Rwandan cuisine, La Créola hosts a lively Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Expect barbecue grills with marinated meats and fish, and fragrant pilau and an omelette station for made-to-order eggs. Brunchers choosing the alcoholic option can enjoy a mimosa that will be regularly topped up. With panoramic terrace views and a live DJ set, this is the ultimate laidback Sunday plan.

When: Sundays, 11 am–4 pm

Don’t miss: Bubbly bottles are 20% off throughout brunch.

Prices:

• Non-alcoholic brunch: RWF 35,000 (US$28)

• Alcoholic brunch: RWF 45,000 (US$32)

• With a bottle of sparkling wine: RWF 50,000 (US$35)

More info: @lacreola_restaurant_lounge on Instagram

Heaven: Kiyovu

Tucked away in lush gardens in Kiyovu, Heaven is the go-to for a brunch that celebrates Rwandan cuisine. Expect lightly fried sambaza fish from Lake Kivu, yam croquettes, fishcakes, and a rotation of hearty African stews. Ingredients are seasonal, locally sourced, and flavoured with herbs grown in-house. Many of the chefs are graduates of the hotel’s hospitality training program, making the food taste all the better. Brunch is served every Saturday and Sunday on the garden terrace.

When: Saturdays & Sundays, 10.30 am–3 pm

Don’t miss: Kuku Paka—grilled chicken in a rich, spiced coconut sauce.

Prices:

• Adults: RWF 25,000 (US$17.50)

• Kids: RWF 12,500 (US$8.75)

More info: www.heavenrwanda.com

Atelier du Vin: Nyarugenge

This stylish Sunday brunch spot brings flair to every detail. Retro pendant lighting and smoked mirrors set the tone indoors, while the city views from the covered terrace are just as stunning. The brunch spread is a feast for the eyes and palate, with a dessert table featuring a chocolate fountain and torched crème brûlées. Sushi lovers are well catered for, and for those opting for drinks, the wine, bubbly, and beer flow freely.

When: Sundays, 10 am–4 pm

Don’t miss: The resident DJs and live music round out the mood perfectly.

Prices:

• With fruit juices: RWF 30,000 (US$21)

• With alcohol: RWF 50,000 (US$35)

More info: @atelierduvin_rw on Instagram

Four Points by Sheraton: Central Kigali

Every Saturday, FP Social at Four Points offers its ‘Delicacy of the World’ brunch, an international buffet featuring Italian pizza and pasta, Asian seafood dishes, American pancakes, and more. The brunch is a popular gathering spot for Kigalians, with live music and a festive vibe. Kids are well catered for, and a made-to-order stir-fry station is a highlight for many.

When: Saturdays, 12.30 pm–4 pm

Don’t miss: The wok station—customise your stir-fry and watch it sizzle.

Prices:

• With soft drinks: RWF 35,000

• With wine or three beers: RWF 50,000

• Kids aged 6–12: RWF 17,000

• Free for kids aged five and under

More info: @fourpointskigali on Instagram