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| - Don't judge a book by its cover!
My husband and I dined at Wine 5 Cafe after finding it using a Yelp search. I have to admit that I was dubious as we pulled up, given that the restaurant is located in a strip mall and the restaurant was quite empty. But I'm glad we stayed as this place is a true treasure (and one that we will visit again --very soon). The inside decor is quite cute and has the feel of a French bistro. The waiter was very attentive but not intrusive.
I had the curry (Taste of Nairobi), which came with a very generous portion of chapati bread and a side of spinach stew (sauteed spinach with onions). The curry was light (very little coconut milk, if any) and contained three huge pieces of chicken, potatoes, fresh green beans, carrots, and squash. The portion size was generous and I took more than half of the curry home.
My husband had the Traditional Nayama and Ugali (Tender Braised Beef, White Polenta, Spinach Stew, Onion Jam, and Sweet Potato Logs). The beef was tender and well seasoned, cooked to perfection. The spinach stew was great, seasoned with big chunks of onion). The sweet potato logs were fresh, well seasoned, and crisp, without being greasy or heavy. The onion jam (which I had never before tasted) was amazing. The polenta was bland. But the waiter quickly informed us that you're supposed to mix everything together. Again, I was dubious, but it worked and the end result was amazing.
Also, my husband likes a lot of spice. While the restaurant does not have hot sauce, the chef prepared homemade hot sauce for my husband, which he added to his food.
The only recommendation I have is that if you want some of the traditional Kenya dishes, such as goat or oxtail, you should dine early. My husband initially asked for goat, but he was told they were out.
Again, a wonderful place- amazing food, generous portions, great ambiance, good service.
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