Kigali food tours
No trip to Rwanda is complete without tasting its delicious traditional cuisine. In Kigali, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, local markets, and street food stalls serving hearty, flavorful dishes that reflect the country’s rich culture and agricultural heritage. Rwandan food is wholesome, fresh, and often plant-based, making it both healthy and satisfying. Here are some traditional Rwandan dishes you must try in Kigali.
Ugali (Ubugali)
A staple across East Africa, ugali is a dense, starchy dish made from maize flour. In Rwanda, it is often served as an accompaniment to vegetables, beans, or meat stews. Its mild flavor makes it the perfect side to soak up savory sauces.
Isombe
One of Rwanda’s signature dishes, isombe is made from cassava leaves pounded into a smooth texture and cooked with peanuts, palm oil, and spices. It’s typically served with rice, plantains, or ugali and is a favorite in local households.
Ibihaza (Pumpkin with Beans)
A popular rural dish, ibihaza combines pumpkin and beans cooked together to create a nutritious and flavorful meal. It’s simple but filling, highlighting Rwanda’s tradition of using locally grown produce.
Akabenz
Known as Rwanda’s most famous pork dish, akabenz is fried or grilled pork seasoned with spices and served in generous portions. You’ll find it in many local bars and eateries, where it pairs perfectly with cold local beer.
Brochettes
These skewers of grilled meat (usually goat, beef, or fish) are Rwanda’s go-to street food. Often seasoned with chili or peanut sauce, brochettes are enjoyed everywhere from street corners to upscale restaurants. They’re a must-try for meat lovers.
Ibihaza n’Isombe Combo
For an authentic taste of Rwanda, many restaurants serve a combination platter featuring isombe, ibihaza, beans, rice, and plantains, giving you a variety of flavors on one plate.
Local Drinks
Don’t miss out on traditional beverages such as urwagwa (a banana beer), fresh sugarcane juice, and Rwanda’s world-famous coffee and tea, which are enjoyed locally and exported worldwide.
Exploring Kigali’s food scene is one of the best ways to connect with Rwanda’s culture. From local markets like Kimironko Market to cozy family-owned restaurants, every meal tells a story of tradition, community, and sustainability.
For an authentic culinary experience, reach out to Unique Rwanda Vacation Experts to help you organize Kigali food tours that include market visits, cooking classes, and tastings of Rwanda’s most beloved traditional dishes.