In a place for holidays and leisure like the Kenyan coast, in these difficult times public places can provide both a safe service and an opportunity to share moments with friends without incurring active or passive contagion.
In Malindi, for example, restaurants have done their utmost, spending their own money which, unlike in other countries, will not be refunded even partially.
Protocols that were indispensable for reopening and obviously for the safety of everyone, but which constituted economic efforts that cannot be repaid by a large influx of patrons.
In any case, as we wrote yesterday, it is much better to go to one of the Italian restaurants than to organise parties or group dinners at home. In the late afternoon, especially until 9 pm, there are many places that offer tasty dishes in environments where the staff is tested periodically, sanitation and hand washing are required, the seats are halved to allow social distances and the mask for those who cook and those who serve is a "must".
The choice of the best is wide and varied. We obviously propose (in alphabetical order) those that have decided to support Malindikenya.net in its information and correct promotion of Kenya.
At Baby Marrow Art & Food, the evening can begin with an aperitif at the Pizza Corner, perhaps a spritz well prepared by the barman Ngala, why not with a margherita or a captivating marinara cut into slices. But dinner with lots of new dishes remains the attraction, in the now famous environment where you can breathe in art and beauty thanks to the works of GianPaolo Tomasi and where, in addition to the pizza that even the famous Lonely Planet guide has judged as one of the best in Kenya, there are many specialities of Italian, international and Swahili cuisine to satisfy everyone, including those who are allergic to gluten.
At the Karen Blixen Bar & Restaurant on Lamu Road, recently reopened under a brilliant new management and with a skilful restyling and that touch of elegance that is particularly noticeable in the evening lights, the strength of the place is no longer the historic one of breakfasts and morning and afternoon get-togethers. The restaurant-pizzeria has also returned to offer the excellent service and quality of its first management. In addition to the excellent pizza with its many tasty variations, try the revised menu, which alternates between the classics of Italian cuisine and fresh fish, meat and other specialities to satisfy customers from all over the world.
One of the town's cult establishments, La Malindina, by its swimming pool and under the large makuti-bar always offers special evenings with inventions by the great chef Abubakr to satisfy all palates. During the pandemic period, the management has taken the opportunity to raise the quality of its service and culinary proposals. While at sunset you can enjoy the tranquillity of a tropical garden where time stands still, there are many gastronomic delights to choose from (reservations are always advisable).
L'Oro di Lorenzo is another happy new entry in the panorama of Italian-run restaurants in Malindi. The large and charming dining room inside the Mwembe Resort, which overlooks a tropical garden and the large swimming pool with waterfalls, is experiencing a new chapter in the professionalism and passion of the Malaika Beach management. In addition to the signature dishes of the Mayungu restaurant, the new menu features special dishes and some must-try gems such as Japanese sushi and sashimi (also take-away) and homemade ice cream. Pizza is of a high standard and... try the bruschette with homemade bread!
Every year at this time, Olimpia Club, the most classic of Malindi's Italian restaurants, lights up.
It is the Christmas lights and the tree that every season give the same effect of a "home" of our compatriots, where they always feel at ease. The structure of the Olimpia, with its gazebos that were spaced out socially even before the pandemic, allows for safe dining, where fresh oysters, calamarata and other specialities of the restaurant will accompany you during these very special holidays.