Restaurants and Places to Eat in Kitale - We Traveled Briefly for a Burial

Our recent journey to Kitale was bittersweet, marked by the sorrow of bidding farewell to a beloved family member. Life's journey often intertwines moments of sorrow with unexpected joys, a testament to this delicate balance. Amidst the mourning, we found solace in the warmth of family and friends, personalized hospitality, and the organic food landscape of the north rift region of Kenya.

Whether it is the unique taste of Managu (African nightshade)—(sisi tunaiitanga Sucha) paired with ugali or the nice flavors of Mahindi Mbichi (Green Maize), Whether it’s roasted, boiled, or mixed with beans served with a spicy blend of fresh nyanya (tomatoes), vitunguu (onions), hoho (capsicum), plus any other ingredients as preferred) and fresh dhania (coriander)—plus pilipili for some, this local delicacy called Githeri is a must-try, especially during the green maize season between June and September. The food in Kitale has a way of making you feel at home, even during days of such sorrow.

(PSA: This is not a sponsored partnership with any mentioned establishments, we paid for everything)

For those who love food, travel, and adventure, I present to you A Few Restaurants in Kitale that belong on your bucket list. 

First Stop - Breakfast! 

On the morning we arrived in town, we decided to start the day and nourish ourselves with a hearty breakfast at Big Spoon Café (Bongo Hotel building), a charming spot popular with locals (akina sisi) and travelers alike. Their tea, brewed with just the right amount of milk and sweetness, was the perfect start to the day. Very energizing. Pop in for a meal if or when you can, they have good food. The ambiance is artsy and inviting, and the service was prompt, which made our experience even better. It is the kind of place that feels like home serving familiar, comforting meals that taste like they were made with love.

A Warm Welcome at The Nest

Our stay in Kitale was made infinitely better thanks to our incredible host, Lucy. Her cozy yet spacious and lovely Airbnb located in Milimani Estate "The Nest," offered us the comfort we needed. She ensured our stay was comfortable, providing a serene environment that felt like a home away from home, and we are deeply grateful for her kindness. 

Asante sana, dear Lucy, as always you shall get more referrals from me and we'll always come back.

With the homestay’s well-equipped kitchen, we occasionally indulged in making simple meals, but Kitale's delicious culinary scene was too tempting to resist. In between family gatherings and moments of reflection, we explored a handful of epic restaurants that offered an authentic taste of this lovely place.

While it is convenient and was wonderful to enjoy the local eateries, there’s something special about cooking your own food, especially when you’re in a place that feels both foreign and home. Our stay at The Nest - Milimani was the perfect opportunity to try cooking with fresh ingredients. We picked up a few items at Quickmart and the market including fresh greens, onions, tomatoes, and prepared meals together. There’s nothing like sitting down to a home-cooked meal after a day of exploring, and the fresh and rich flavors of Kitale’s produce made every plate special. 

Gific Hotel

From Gific Hotel, we treated ourselves to some nourishing and comforting food. They also offer meals for  delivery options, which is what we went for on our first night in. Known for its generous portions and excellent service, it’s the kind of place you’d get food from from again and again. We ordered a variety of items complemented by a side of freshly cooked vegetables, and the food arrived piping hot and was exactly what we needed—flavorful, fresh, and satisfying. 

Though we didn’t get the chance to dine in, we could tell from the quality of the food that Gific’s restaurant atmosphere must also be a pleasant one. The convenience of their delivery option made it an easy choice, and it’s definitely a place I would recommend for both dining in or ordering take away meals when you’re in Kitale.

Super Break Hotel

Our last stop was the renowned Super Break Hotel, popular for its authentic dishes. The aroma of Nyama Choma (grilled meat) greeted us, evoking memories of family gatherings and shared laughter, but this was not a celebratory day. The casual, vibrant atmosphere provided a comforting backdrop, reminding us of the strength found in community and tradition. 

An outdoor spot known for its authentic Kenyan meals, we wanted to indulge in nicely cooked managu (African Nightshade) with ugali, but unfortunately was not available that time. While Super Break has a reputation as one of Kitale's good spots for a sit-down meal, our experience was a mixed one. The slow service and limited food availability were a letdown, especially when we were craving something specific. Eventually, we settled on chipo, which was decent, but not exactly the food we were hoping for. That said, Super Break has potential, and its ambiance and general vibe make it a spot to check out, especially for those who enjoy relaxed, casual dining.

Looking back, our brief stay in Kitale was a reminder of life's dualities like the coexistence of grief and joy, loss and discovery. The town's dining offerings provided not just nourishment but also moments of connection and comfort during a challenging time. We left Kitale with a deeper appreciation for its culture, its people, and the unexpected ways it touched our hearts. The simple act of exploring Kitale’s food scene helped me appreciate the beauty of a town I’d only associated with home and visits to family. It reminded me that even in moments of grief, life has a way of offering us small joys, like the warmth of fresh green maize, the chatter of a busy restaurant, and the love poured into every dish. Kitale is a hidden gem for food lovers, blending culture and cuisine seamlessly. Whether it’s the authentic local dishes at Mama Njuguna’s, the cozy breakfasts at Big Spoon Café, or the hearty meals at Gific and Super Break Hotels, there’s something here for everyone.

Kitale, with its welcoming people and flavorful meals, is a place that feeds not just your body but your soul. And as I sit back and reflect on our short yet meaningful trip, I’m reminded of how food can be both healing and celebratory. 

To my spouse: thank you for always being my anchor, making every moment, even the difficult ones, a little brighter.

Note: This article is a personal reflection on our experiences in Kitale. The mentioned establishments were visited during our stay, and our impressions are based on those visits.