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Chill out at the Pili-Pili Bistro in Kigali

Saturday February 24 2018
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A double cheese burger with Belgian chips, coleslaw and salad served at Pili-Pili Bistro in Kigali. PHOTO | JEFFERSON RUMANYIKA | NMG

By JEFFERSON RUMANYIKA

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.

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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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