Kigali city in recent years has blossomed into a culinary and hospitality hub, reflecting its vibrant international community. This is where Chintal Asher Kanabar, a Tanzania-born Indian, has made a notable mark with the opening of Garden Bistro, a top-of-the-line Indian cuisine restaurant.
Nestled comfortably in the upscale and serene Nyarutarama neighborhood in Kigali, the Garden Bistro celebrates Kigali’s rich cultural exchange by offering an authentic taste of India infused with diverse cultural influences. This blend delights the palates of both local residents and expatriates, exemplifying Kigali’s role as a crossroads of global cultures.
Opening a restaurant in Kigali was a culmination of various inspirations that converged into a singular vision for Chintal. Reflecting on her journey, Chintal says, “I’ve always had a deep appreciation for Kigali’s inviting culture. The city’s vibrant energy and the warmth of its people create an incredibly inviting atmosphere. Secondly, this journey is deeply rooted in my family’s love for good food. Every meal for us is a celebration of flavors, textures, and traditions.”
Chintal’s husband and children, ardent food enthusiasts, played a pivotal role in nurturing her culinary skills. She also notes that her father’s unwavering belief in her abilities further fueled her ambition. This support is very visible in the presence of Chintal’s family at the Garden Bistro, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making visitors feel comfortable as they dine.
The menu at Garden Bistro, while diverse, has also been carefully curated to give visitors an all-around cultural experience.
What signature dishes should a first-time visitor try? “This is a tough question to answer,” Chintal says.
“I would like our first-time visitors to try all the dishes that have been carefully curated to serve! But here are a few to mention: Gajjar Chicken (bone and boneless), which is chicken marinated in tandoori style and cooked to perfection in a tandoor oven. What sets this dish apart is the tangy and flavorful GAJJAR sauce that we pour over. It is a must-try!
Another dish I would recommend is the Garden Bistro 50-50, which is a combination of two gravies, sweet and spicy, presented together yet separately. It has a wonderful mix of vegetables, mushrooms, corn, and paneer!
Our Indo-Chinese menu also has many options, but my personal favorite is the Schezwan Fingers in sauce. It is a dish that can be paired with noodles, rice, or just eaten by itself! Not forgetting our soft and light naans, perfect for scooping up curries or enjoying on their own,” she responds enthusiastically.
Businesses like The Garden Bistro play an important role in supporting local farmers, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both the community and the broader Rwandan economy. Chintal says she is inspired by the potential to make a positive impact within the community by sourcing ingredients locally, supporting local farmers and producers, and providing employment opportunities. “For me personally, it is a way to give back to the community,” she explained.
For the Rwandan economy, this approach supports the national goals of self-sufficiency and economic resilience. By championing local agriculture, businesses like The Garden Bistro not only offer authentic and fresh culinary experiences but also play a pivotal role in driving sustainable economic development in Rwanda.
Customer experience is a top priority for Chintal. Visitors are greeted by friendly, smiling staff and welcomed into a spacious garden area adorned with lush green plants, colorful flowers, a serene swimming pool, and a tranquil dining area. The Garden Bistro is perfectly designed for family events, offering a custom-built setting that caters to a variety of occasions.
“For us, the customer comes first. We at Garden Bistro want each and every customer that walks in to feel this is their home. Whether a family occasion, a birthday party, or a bridal shower, we personalize our services to what our customer needs,” Chintal says.
Chintal hopes to extend the warmth and hospitality of Garden Bistro’s kitchen with some of her family’s special recipes to the Kigali community, inviting guests to come and experience their own culinary journey and create memories around the dining table.
As Rwanda ranks second in Africa for conference tourism according to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Chintal sees significant potential for growth and innovation in Kigali’s hospitality industry. With the city evolving as a hub for tourism, business, and cultural exchange, the demand for diverse dining experiences is expected to rise. Kigali offers an exciting landscape for restaurants to thrive and grow.
“At Garden Bistro, we’re enthusiastic about our role in shaping this future and are committed to strategic growth and expansion. Some of our plans include enhancing our culinary offerings and creating strong partnerships with local suppliers and artisans,” she states.
Chintal’s vision for the Garden Bistro extends beyond just offering exceptional Indian cuisine. “While we take pride in showcasing the rich and diverse flavors of India, our vision is to continuously evolve and expand our culinary offerings to introduce a broader range of experiences to our guests.
We are grateful to have experienced a seamless transition during our initial phases of operation. The smoothness of our journey thus far can be attributed to a combination of diligent planning, effective execution, and the support of our staff and customers,” she says.
