By Hans

After the troubles at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre and meeting a few people, it was time to unwind. I rushed to Osteria del Chianti for lunch. We have very good Italian restaurants in Malindi and I was anxious to see what Nairobi has to offer, especially as the owner has lived in Malindi.

On arriving (I had not booked), I found the place almost full in the outside patio, but the cool hostess managed to find me a table. I ordered a glass of dry white wine and, to my surprise, I was asked whether I wanted a small or large one — that was new to me. Of course I ordered a large glass with some bread and relaxed.

My friends soon arrived and it was difficult to choose from the interesting and versatile menu. I chose ossobuco and it did not disappoint. It was delicious and well presented as were my friends’ dishes. We got some complimentary bruscettas, which went very well with a bottle of Chianti house wine. All in all, it was a very relaxed atmosphere with excellent service.

My friends commented that things are really changing in Nairobi. Until recently, one could find only wazungu in such places but the restaurant was packed with all manner of people that day.

I love long lunches but since I had requested my host Navaisha to invite some friends for drinks and dinner on my behalf, I had to rush back. I imagined how expensive it would have been if I had to host 11 people in a hotel or a restaurant.

That evening was pure fun. There was Steven, an upcoming journalist; Denis, an extrovert and an outgoing Jesuit brother; John, a bright student at Daystar University; Ali, an accountant; Amir, a dried flower designer; and Brian, a young church minister who talked strongly about abstinence. It was refreshing to be around young people who are sure of where they are going.

Later I had lunch at Java but was not impressed. I had the feeling I was at a fast food restaurant. One interesting thing though is I had to hang my laptop bag under the table on a hook — Nairobbery indeed!

On Friday, I had a lunch date with two lady friends at Mediterraneo. I am convinced Italy has one of the best cuisines in the world, which is why I like Italian restaurants. Sitting outside in a patio, friendly and humorous waiter Eliud Sembe served us. I had my favourite pasta with smoked salmon and asparagus, which is a world-famous dish. The conversation and company were sparkling and we could not stop talking and laughing.

Three hours later, I staggered to my taxi and headed home for a siesta to get me ready for Nairobi by night. I was loving every moment of this city.