Farm-to-Fork Cuisine that Showcases the Story of Rwanda

Nestled in the foothills of the Virunga volcano range in northwest Rwanda, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is a secluded jungle sanctuary, where guests can observe majestic mountain gorillas roam in their natural habitat. The closest resort to the entrance of the national park, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest promises transformative moments in an exceptional natural location, with thrilling wildlife encounters on the doorstep, experiences that celebrate the local culture, and farm-to-fork cuisine that showcases sustainable produce from the local land, forest and lakes.

The resort’s culinary concept is curated by Executive Chef Brandon Souris, originally from South Africa, he has garnered experience across the continent and brings diverse, pan-African influences and inspiration to the menus. The cuisine at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest tells the story of Rwanda’s land and culture, showcasing in-season, regional produce with a focus on freshness and quality. The resort works closely with local small producers and farmers to serve a farm-to-fork concept that supports businesses from the community, as well sourcing as ingredients freshly picked from the resort’s organic Chef’s Garden. Menus change daily to incorporate the freshest seasonal ingredients and are crafted to each individual guest’s dietary preferences.

The main restaurant, Nest, is the heart of the resort, and serves fresh and healthy breakfasts and local Rwandan coffee in the mornings, is a place to relax over family-style lunches or afternoon tea in the days, and where guests gather to share stories over drinks and dinner after a day’s adventure. An interactive open kitchen welcomes guests into the cooking experience and daily specials celebrate local Rwandan dishes. Blending the indoor and outdoor space seamlessly, floor-to-ceiling windows lead to the expansive outdoor terrace where guests can dine overlooking nature, and at night gaze up at the spectacular night sky seated by the cosy outdoor fireplace. For celebrations, groups of friends or multi-generational families, Nest has a private dining room that seats 22.

Every morning, the resort team prepare wellness shots to kick start the day for guests, as well as a small locally inspired taster dish named ‘Gutura’, meaning ‘to give’ in the local language Kinyarwanda. Guests enjoy flavours like Uji Masala spiced sorghum porridge with cinnamon and Nyungwe Forest honey or Coconut Mandazi, an adaption of the popular local breakfast dish that originated from the Swahili Coast of Tanzania. Local fruits, just-squeezed juices, freshly baked bread and patisseries, vegan and gluten-free items are all available as part of the breakfast selection as well as barista-prepared, freshly-ground Rwandan coffee. Guests that have an early start exploring the national park can build their own breakfast pack with nutritious, energy-rich, wholesome items to be enjoyed on the go, while guests that prefer to relax in the comfort of their villas can have breakfast delivered right to their doorstep.

The resort’s Nest Bar serves classic cocktails with a modern twist, signature drinks use rose water in recognition of the resort’s beautiful rose garden, and Eucalyptus from the surrounding forest, as well as hand-crafted infused gins and vodka. An expansive, expert-selected wine list focuses on South African vineyards, as well as offering choices from around the world. An intimate and comfortable space leading to the outdoor terrace, Nest Bar is the place where guests gravitate following a day’s exploration for pre-dinner drinks and linger long into the evenings.

Made-to-order coffees are be available throughout the day from the Barista located in the Main Lodge, filling the air with the rich aroma of roasted, freshly-ground coffee beans. All the coffee served at the resort is sourced locally from Twongere Kawa Coko, a Fairtrade cooperative from Gakenke province that works to empower female coffee producers through investment in skills training and new economic opportunities. One&Only Gorilla Nest’s signature coffee beans are also available for guests to purchase for a taste of Rwanda when they return home. The Main Lodge offers hot and cold coffee cocktails throughout the day, expertly prepared with freshly brewed coffee.

For light dishes, the Pool Bar located at the resort’s Eucalyptus-surrounded open-air swimming pool, serves healthy and fresh options throughout the day, with natural juices evolving into evening cocktails. A plentiful, complimentary pantry is situated in every guest lodge, regularly replenished with home-cooked, freshly prepared snacks and treats for guests to enjoy in the comfort of their room. Guests can also request bespoke private dining experiences for a meal like no other, from a private barbeque under the stars to an al fresco picnic. A highlight for many guests are the resort’s cultural evenings, where mouth-watering African dishes are served alongside vibrant performances from a traditional dance group, a memorable experiences for guests to feel the spirit of Rwanda come alive.

For more information or reservations, please visit: oneandonlyresorts.com