Dine With a Stunning View at These 10 Restaurants in Kigali

Though a new addition to the Kigali restaurant and hotel scene, the Ubumwe Grande has been making waves as the undeniable providers of one of Kigali’s best views. Located on the roof of the hotel, the Ubumwe Grande’s bar and restaurant serves up casual fare that generally hits the spot. And, with a view of the city that good coupled with a rooftop pool, it’s hard to stay away.

Home to upscale Rwandan cuisine, Repub Lounge is the perfect place to sample brochettes (grilled meat, vegetables, or fish on a stick), misuzu (sweet plantains), and general grilled meat offerings. Skip the downstairs tables and head straight to the deck on the second floor, and sit outside for sunset and one of Kigali’s best views.

The famous Hotel des Mille Collines is one of Kigali’s most infamous landmarks. Le Panorama, located on the rooftop of the hotel, provides one of Kigali’s most spectacular views alongside a gourmet dining experience. Go early for a sunset drink, and soak in the city views.

Located in the residential neighborhood of Kibagabaga, Pili Pili is a Kigali staple. This is the place to be on a weekend afternoon, soaking up the sunshine at the pool and lounging on cushions overlooking golden hilltops. Get the sangria, cold beer, and brochettes, grab a big group of friends, and settle in for one of the most relaxing afternoons Kigali has to offer.

In addition to offering some of Kigali’s best coffee and baked goods, Inzora Rooftop Cafe also possesses one of Kigali’s best views. The cafe is located in the back of Ikirezi, Kigali’s main bookstore. Check them out on Friday afternoons and evenings when they host a cocktail and wine hour that mixes perfectly with their sunset views.

Every Monday night, Sole Luna infamously hosts a quiz night that varies in difficulty, but always ensures a good time. As purveyors of some of the city’s best pizza, Sole Luna also operates out of a gorgeous brick building in the Gishushu neighborhood with a stunning view out onto the city. Ask for a pizza with real mozzarella and a jug of wine to share with friends.

Choma’D, a restaurant and bar in the Nyarutarama neighborhood, is one of Kigali’s hippest spots. Consistently busy, the bar has long communal tables that stay packed late. Their cocktails are flowing, and the selection of comfort food (think mac and cheese) is perfect for a night out, and their view out on the Nyarutarama lake and resulting reflection is lovely.

Located at the top of the T200 mall, Bamboo serves some of the best of the city’s greasy and delicious Chinese food. Views from the restaurant’s somewhat gaudy roof (think flashing colorful lights and plastic decorations) are of the hills on the outskirts of the city, and, accompanied by a pile of spring rolls, are spectacular.

The Bistro on the roof of Urban Hotel is a rare gem in Kigali – rarely overcrowded, expensive but not overtly so, consistent food, good cocktails, and, most importantly, a stellar view. This place is good. Really good. Check it out for lunch or dinner, and order their Bang Bang Cauliflower dish to accompany a cold rooftop beer.

Papyrus, located in a complex that houses a gym, bakery, nail salon, Chinese restaurant, night club, and bar, is a Kigali staple. Though their rooftop is no longer in use, the views from the restaurant and bar are golden. Spend some hours whiling away your afternoon or evening over a plate of dim sum, noodles, and more.