In the Rebero hills of Kigali, there exists a restaurant and social spot that fully embraces a culinary concept deeply rooted in history – the Kamado Experience. This unique approach to dining, characterized by a do-it-yourself (DIY) ethos, has captured the attention and interest of both locals and tourists, offering a distinctive and engaging way to savor a meal.

On a Saturday, November 18, as my colleague, photographer Dan Kwizera, and I explored The Rock Cocktail and Bistro, we were welcomed into an ambiance filled with the clattering of utensils and the sizzling symphony of culinary delights. The wooden tables adorned with rectangular boards and heated stones subtly hinted at the highlight of our experience – the opportunity to cook our own meat.

Before embarking on the culinary journey, I took a moment to converse with Hussein Kayitare, a team member overseeing our Kamado Experience. He provided insights into the historical and philosophical aspects of this ancient cooking technique.

“The Kamado experience isn’t a novel concept; it has a history spanning over 3,000 years,” Kayitare elucidated. “Originally devised by the Chinese, it was embraced by the Japanese and later adapted by Americans, known as the Big Green Egg. It’s more than just a grill; it’s a versatile tool for baking, grilling, and cooking. Rather than being a conventional grill, it emphasizes the art of slow cooking, infusing a distinctive flavor into the food.”

The central elements of The Rock’s culinary experience are the Kamado grills affectionately known as “Jen and Janine.” These grills play a pivotal role in elevating the flavors of meals through a meticulous slow-cooking process. According to Kayitare, the chosen names not only impart a personal touch but also transform these grills into more than mere cooking devices, turning every meal into a delectable feast.

“The current feedback from clients is positive after introducing it about two months ago. Clients are genuinely enjoying the experience, emphasizing that it goes beyond just a financial transaction—it has become a bonding activity for groups. Companies, particularly those seeking retreats or team-building events, find the Kamado experience to be ideal,” he elaborated.

As we immersed ourselves in the culinary adventure, our group, consisting of myself, a friend, and another pair of guests, actively participated in grilling chicken, pork sausages, and beef on the Kamado grill. The restaurant facilitated the process by providing pre-seasoned bowls of chicken, pork sausages, and beef fillet, accompanied by an array of sides such as rice, fries, and salads.

Though I wouldn’t label myself a fervent cook, the Kamado Experience added a unique element to my culinary journey. Taking charge of grilling our meat provided a hands-on cooking experience, allowing us to manage temperatures and achieve the ideal sear. The sense of camaraderie grew stronger as we connected with other grillers, delving into discussions that spanned from current events to more intricate subjects such as Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain.

As highlighted by Hussein Kayitare, the DIY concept challenges the conventional idea of dining out, where food is typically prepared for you at a restaurant. The Kamado Experience goes beyond being just a distinctive culinary adventure; it serves as a social catalyst, uniting individuals through a shared cooking and dining experience.

Rwanda, like many other places, undergoes a continuous cultural evolution influenced by a diverse mix of people from around the world who visit the country. This phenomenon introduces a unique aspect reminiscent of ‘gentrification’—not in the context of transforming neighborhoods, but in how Rwanda warmly welcomes individuals from various backgrounds.

The collaborative efforts of the community ensure that everyone, regardless of their origin, can enjoy flavors reminiscent of their home. While my time at the restaurant revealed that a majority of patrons were foreigners, there was a noticeable presence of Rwandans, showcasing an inclusive spirit that characterizes the nation’s cultural landscape.