Damasquino — Restaurant in Kimihurura

So excited that our favorite middle eastern chef Samir has finally landed in his own restaurant in Kigali. While this beautiful Arabic restaurant with lots of comfortable spaces to enjoy the delicious food or relax in the exotic Bedouin style carpeted Tent is new to the Kigali food scene, the chefs deftly seasoned Syrian and Lebanese - dare we say pan Arabic food is not.

Previously he was a partner in Fayrouz in Kibabagabaga …now he’s the sole proprietor and talented chef behind Damasquio in Kimihura …offering up such specialities as grilled seasoned meat kebabs (pro tip try the chopped lamb kebabs), fatoush salad with a chefs kiss tangy dressing with notes of garlic, sweet and sour pomegranate molasses and herbs from his chefs garden complimenting the tender greens and slivers of red onion along with warm homemade pita crisps. The contrasts of texture and taste dancing exquisitely on one’s tongue. Fattah salad remains a favorite of ours too.

Dramatic presentation of warm grilled eggplant chunks bathed in a creamy lemon kissed tahini dressing, the same addictive homemade pita strips and the final touch that brings it altogether, a sizzling hot mini pot of ghee poured table-side over the salad melding the flavors and bathing the salad in a luxurious dance across your palate !!

There’s a bevy of fresh breads with many Levantine toppings on offer including za’atar a seasoning blend featuring tangy sumak, seamed seeds and a thyme lime spice , melted cheeses and more.

We enjoyed vibrantly colored and faintly sweet yet earthy beet hummus…the garlic and lemon generously playing against the earthy sweetness of fresh roasted beets ! Pretty to look at even better to explore swiping house made flatbread through the creamy textured hummus…there’s traditionally flavored hummus and a fire kissed babaganoush available too, housemade kibbeh and stuffed grape leaves. It’s a perfect opportunity to order a mezze of small plates to share

Don’t miss the homemade pistachio ladened baklava …chef doesn’t skimp on good ingredients or talent to pull them together in ways that highlight the food and flavors of his homeland..offering his patrons a chance to close their eyes, open their palates and wander into the wonderful world of seasonings and flavors rarely...

Damasquino: A Cozy Lunch Spot in Kigali?

Yesterday evening, my wife and I decided to dine at Damasquino here in Kigali, enticed by its reputation for delicious cuisine. Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by a friendly waitress who quickly handed us the menu. 👌

As we perused the options, our taste buds were definitely tantalized by the variety of enticing dishes available. However, we were surprised to learn that Damasquino does not serve alcohol...

As wine enthusiasts, 🍷 a good meal often pairs best with a nice glass of wine for us, so we decided to explore other dining options for the night.

It’s worth noting that the ambiance at Damasquino could use some enhancement. The lighting was quite stark and bright 💡, which created a rather less cozy atmosphere than we had hoped for.

A little adjustment to the lighting could transform the dining experience into something truly inviting.🕯🪔🏮

Overall, while our visit to Damasquino didn’t quite meet our expectations for a Saturday night out, it may be an excellent spot for lunch or a casual daytime meal. The friendly service and tempting dishes are definitely commendable. If you’re looking for a cozy dinner setting with a drink, this might not be the place, but don’t overlook it for a delightful...

Kigali’s Hidden Gem!

During our visit to Kigali from London, my father and I stumbled upon Domasquino, and it quickly became our go-to spot — so much so that we ended up having dinner there every night for an entire week!

From the moment we walked in, we were struck by the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The host is incredibly well-mannered and genuinely hospitable, making us feel at home right away. The staff are kind, attentive, and professional, always serving with a smile and ensuring every meal was perfect.

The food is outstanding — fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Every dish we tried was a delight, and it’s clear that a lot of care goes into the preparation and presentation. The ambiance is elegant yet relaxed, making it ideal for both a casual dinner or a special evening out.

Domasquino truly captures the spirit of Kigali — warm, refined, and full of heart. We left with full stomachs and even fuller hearts. If you’re in Kigali, don’t miss this place — it’s easily one of the best dining experiences...