BON VIVANT: Taste of Ol Donyo Sabuk

Just one hour and 45 minutes away from Nairobi, off the Thika-Garissa Highway, lies a brand new mountain getaway. At the foot of Mount Kilimambogo, literally, Buffalo Mountain is this family-friendly spot.

It is set on a verdant five-acre plot surrounded by farms and the Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park. The decor is modern yet cosy and it resembles a country club. A separate building houses the lobby, bar, lounge, dining hall and swimming pool.

The residential area boasts 10 cottages set in peaceful surroundings.

The chef, an old man whose long career included cooking at the Serena hotels, is always happy to see guests. He was quite friendly and often came to check on the different patrons to see how they were enjoying the food.

You can taste the dedication in the food. The portions are enormous, so come hungry. The resorts’ activities like swimming, horse riding and hiking in the park will ensure you bring your appetite. It is hugely popular with young families who come from

Nairobi and stay overnight, as well as those from the surrounding areas. We noticed that they offered swimming lessons and toys to keep the little ones occupied.

The menu has a breakfast buffet, and for lunch or dinner, they offered continental and local dishes. We tried several dishes over the course of our stay there. I would recommend the T-bone steak, grilled fish and the chef’s singularly artistic rendition of an

old favourite, salad niçoise. The steak is thick and juicy and they serve their mains with generous helpings of organic vegetables grown in their garden. I do not remember what type of fish they served, but it was crispy and golden with tons of butter and lemon. It went perfectly with the vegetables and fries.

I appreciated the fact that the Ol Donyo Sabuk kitchen staff is extremely flexible. If you have kids who are fussy eaters, or you have a particular preference for certain foods that are not on the menu,

you can order for a special request. So long as they have the ingredients, they will make it for you.

The staff is friendly and especially accommodating to children and elderly persons. Carol, our server, was outstanding in going above the call of duty. Meals are reasonably priced, with breakfast going for Sh700 and main meals starting at Sh1000. Desserts

include the usual black forest, ice cream, fruit and a selection of pastries. Due to the generous meal portion sizes, we were too full to try any of the desserts.

If you find yourself on the Thika-Garissa Highway or are looking for some adventure, this is the ideal location to grab a bite as you explore your country.

RATINGS

Service – 4/5

Food – 3/5/5

Ambiance – 4/5

Child-friendliness – 3.5/5

Value – 4/5

Hygiene – 4/5