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11 Top Spots for Dessert in Kigali

| Courtesy of Kigali Marriott Hotel

Rwanda’s capital has recently undergone a foodie makeover. With new hot spots opening monthly and chef-owned restaurants becoming the talk of town, Kigali has a lot to offer, and desserts are now being given the attention they deserve. Though unavailable in the city for many years, delicious dessert options are now offered at an assortment of Kigali restaurants, hotels, and cafes. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth, and check out our list for the 11 top spots for dessert in Kigali.

Inzora Cafe

Cafe, Vegetarian, Coffee

Gluten free brownie at Inzora Rooftop Cafe
Courtesy of Kigali Eats

Inzora Cafe has a serious selection of baked goods. The best, however, is the gluten-free brownie. It is chocolatey, moist, and perfectly baked. A great pick-me-up during a meeting at the cafe, or to jumpstart an especially long work day, this brownie is such a treat. It also goes great with Inzora’s coffee selection.

Filini Italian Restaurant and Bar

Restaurant, Bar, Italian, Vegetarian

Known for their pastas and pizzas, the recently opened Filini is a serious foodie coup for Kigali. When visiting the restaurant, make sure to save some room for dessert – their chocolate cake is divine. It is really a rich chocolate fondant crossed with a souffle, and it is served alongside creme anglaise and homemade vanilla ice cream. This dessert is easily one of the best in Kigali, and the gooey chocolate center is mouthwatering.

Poivre Noir

Poivre Noir | Courtesy of Leah Feiger
Courtesy of Leah Feiger
This upscale Belgian-inspired hotspot has long been considered one of Kigali’s best restaurants. The desserts here are just as fabulous as the main courses, with the panna cotta particularly standing out. Panna cotta is rarely the most exciting dessert option on the menu, but with tart strawberries, crunchy meringue, and the creamy panna cotta itself, this cute little dessert is the perfect end to a hearty meal at Poivre Noir.

Soko Restaurant at the Marriott

Restaurant, Contemporary, African, Healthy, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Indian

The Marriott Hotel has three different restaurants, but the best restaurant for dessert is easily Soko. The infamous breakfast buffet at the Marriott hotel on Saturday and Sundays is known for its ever flowing champagne, but should also get recognized for the fabulous dessert selection. Bread pudding, chocolate mousse, fruit cakes, and more are crammed onto the gleaming counters, and pretty much everything is worthwhile.

Delizia Italiana

Delizia Italiana | Courtesy of Leah Feiger
Courtesy of Leah Feiger
With sweltering summers and humid rainy seasons, Kigali is undoubtedly a town in need of a proper ice cream parlor. Kigali’s newest ice cream shop, Delizia Italiana, is the city’s ultimate gelateria. They have the usual flavors, like chocolate, Nutella, and vanilla, but also have a couple of creative combinations worth trying. Check out the pear and ricotta ice cream, a creamy and flavorful scoop that is as delicate as it is tasty.

CasaKeza

Restaurant, Spanish

Brownie at CasaKeza
Courtesy of CasaKeza
CasaKeza, Kigali’s only restaurant serving Spanish-inspired tapas, also offers a sweet selection of desserts. Try the cold chocolate brownie with macadamia nuts and dates, and enjoy their beautiful view.

Slices & Cakes

Bakery, Pastries

Slices & Cakes
Courtesy of Slices & Cakes
Until Slices & Cakes came around, Kigali lacked a serious cake and cupcake bakery. Slices & Cakes creates the city’s best cupcakes, and their chocolate and red velvet ones are unbeatable.

Kiseki

Restaurant, Sushi, Asian, Japanese

Green tea sundae at Kiseki
Courtesy of Kiseki

In addition to serving up the city’s best sushi rolls and nigiri, Kiseki also deserves acknowledgement for its creative dessert options. Indulge in a fresh bowl of green tea ice cream or a sundae, made in collaboration with Delizia Italiana.

Baso Patissier

Cafe, Patisserie, Dessert, Vegetarian

Baso Patissier
Courtesy of Kigali Eats

Baso Patissier, though only open for a short period of time, has become a Kigali staple. This boulangerie and casual cafe produces lovely croissants, bread, and several lunch and breakfast items, but is best known for eclairs. The vanilla eclair from Baso Patissier is one of the most delectable options to come out of Kigali in years. It is perfectly crafted, with a creamy vanilla center and a crunchy pastry exterior. Try the hazelnut and chocolate eclair as well, though the vanilla version takes the cake every time.

J Lynn's

Cafe, American, Gluten-free

J Lynns
Courtesy of J Lynn's
Every Saturday, J Lynn’s, a cafe known for bagels served in a lush garden, makes the city’s best doughnuts. Head to the their Kicukiru or Kagugu locations on the earlier side to snag a couple of their maple walnut doughnuts – they are just too good.

Brachetto

Restaurant, Italian, Mediterranean, European

Brachetto
Courtesy of Brachetto
This Italian restaurant consistently produces some of the nicest meals in Kigali. Perfect for a date night or fancy group dinner with friends, Brachetto’s fabulous wine selection, creative menu, and beautiful interior is always a delight. Their chocolate mousse is an absolute delight, and uniquely combines dark chocolate, macadamia nuts, and fresh thyme to make a creamy, light, and indulgent treat.

About the author

Though Leah is originally from Chicago, she grew up abroad in Hong Kong and London and has had the travel bug ever since. Perpetually on the road or planning imminent travels, she loves short layovers, mangoes, mountains, and lakeside naps. BA at Dartmouth College and MA at the University of Cape Town.

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