At the River Cafè, Karura Forest Comes Alive

It’s been a while since I’ve written a review of a restaurant! I know that many of us are constantly on the lookout for spots that serve healthy delicious meals and when we do find one it’s great to share with one another.

So, I’ve wanted to visit the River Cafè for such a long time after hearing great reviews about it! I run at Karura every Monday and every time I pass it I make a mental note that I need to try it out. You can imagine my excitement this past weekend when my father offered to take my family out for lunch here. One, because I’ve been itching to visit. Second, because … a free meal. Need I say more?

The restaurant was packed. In my Kiswahili class in primary school we would all use the same expression to describe a well-attended wedding or other event; it was so full that some people had been vomitted outside! (I promise it sounds much better in Kiswahili). Yet, I have to admit that the service was very good – attentive, prompt and polite (this one is dedicated to our lovely waitress who gladly took about five photos for us, even letting us change poses in-between).

It’s difficult to comfortably find a menu that has a variety of attractive meat-free and dairy-free dishes when eating out. It was the complete opposite here which I was very grateful for. My mum and I both had a vegetarian meal – the sweet potato curry (also vegan). I had mine mild for the sake everyone I’d have to have a conversation with afterwards.

My favourite section of their menu was the smoothies. My brothers and I each had a different flavour and none disappointed!

I had the Green Island smoothies while my brothers had the Tropical Bliss smoothie and the Strawberry Ginger smoothie (We were pleasantly surprised that the Ginger wasn’t overpowering in this one!). They were all the perfect mix of fruits!

The ambience here is unparalleled!! The trees of Karura forest are the perfect backdrop as you have your meal. The open plan of the restaurant really captures the serenity of the forest. I honestly felt like I could sit there all day!

I’d definitely recommend this beautiful spot to anyone. The only issue may be that it gets quite packed on Sundays but oh it’s definitely worth it!!

To top it off, I attempted to ride the beautiful stationery bicycle at the entrance.