Bistros have their genesis in the basement kitchens of Parisian apartments.
Landlords
supplemented their income by opening their kitchens to tenants. Menus
were built around foods that were simple, could be prepared in large
quantity and would not go bad quickly. Wine and coffee were also served.
In the Kibagabaga suburbs in Kigali is a
bistro-cum-lounge called Pili-Pili. There is an alabaster white vintage
Rolls Royce at the entrance that serves as part of the decor.
There
are panoramic views of the city overlooking the bright night lights and
the major landmarks of the city, from the Kigali Convention Centre to
Kigali City Tower.
Pilipili is the Swahili word for
pepper. The downstairs Trophy’s Sports lounge has a bar with zebra print
bar stools and cherry blossom pink plush seats.
The
upstairs bistro has white tables and chairs with zebra print cushions.
Its thatched roof gives it a rustic look and cools the area during the
hot season.
The serene ambience and the afro house
music playing in the background is enough to soothe you to sleep. The
attendants were hospitable and efficient.
After perusing the menu, I decided on the double cheese burger with Belgian chips.
My
food arrived promptly. The burger has two beef patties seasoned with
salt and pepper, topped with tangy pickles, chopped onions, ketchup,
mustard and two slices of melted cheese.
The burger
was served in a freshly baked sizeable bun, and the patties were tender.
The chips were thinly-cut, crispy on the outside, light and fluffy on
the inside. Sides of coleslaw salad were accompaniments.
Pili-Pili
has a variety of offerings: Prime cuts of meat, snacks, starters, pizza
and salads. Specialty cuts are served straight from the grill named
after drinks, like Turbo King and Jack Daniels.
Prices of meals range from Rwf3,500 ($6.5) to Rwf25,000 ($29).
Pili-Pili’s
signature cocktails are a must try. The mojito cocktail served in a
cocktail jar was refreshing, minty, fizzy, slightly sweet and quenched
my thirst.
For those who enjoy sport in a relaxed
atmosphere, the lounge is the place for you. The executive bar has a
wide choice of beverages; soft drinks, fresh juices, local and imported
alcoholic drinks, and specialty cocktails. You could even play foosball
or swim while you are there.
An upscale bistro by day
and lively hot spot by night, Pili-Pili is a lifestyle and social hub
and the perfect venue to host a party, corporate launch or private
gathering.
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