One&Only Gorilla’s Nest - 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, opening in November 2019, will offer guests the captivating experience of watching 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 will be curated by Executive Chef Bryan English, originally from South Africa, he has garnered experience across the continent and will bring diverse, pan-African influences and inspiration to the menus. The cuisine at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest will tell the story of Rwanda’s land and culture, showcasing in-season, regional produce with a focus on freshness and quality. The resort will work 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 will change daily to incorporate the freshest seasonal ingredients and will be crafted to each individual guest’s dietary preferences.

The main restaurant, Nest, is the heart of the resort, and will serve fresh and healthy breakfasts and local Rwandan coffee in the mornings, be a place to relax over family-style lunches or afternoon tea in the days, and where guests will gather to share stories over drinks and dinner after a day’s adventure. An interactive open kitchen will welcome guests into the cooking experience and daily specials will celebrate local Rwandan dishes. Blending the indoor and outdoor space seamlessly, floor-to-ceiling windows lead to the expansive outdoor terrace where guests will be able to 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 will have a private dining room that seats 22.

Every morning, the resort team will 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 can 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 will be 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 will be able to build their own breakfast pack with nutritious, energy-rich, wholesome items to be enjoyed on the go.

Nest Bar will serve classic cocktails with a modern twist, signature drinks will use rose water in recognition of the resort’s beautiful rose garden, and Eucalyptus from the surrounding forest. An expansive, expert-selected wine list will focus 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 will be a place where guests will gravitate following a day’s exploration for pre-dinner drinks and linger long into the evenings.

Made-to-order coffees will 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 will be 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 will be available for guests to purchase for a taste of Rwanda when they return home. The Main Lodge will also serve hot and cold and 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, will serve healthy and fresh options throughout the day, with natural juices evolving into evening cocktails. A plentiful, complimentary mini bar will be available 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 will also be able to request bespoke private dining experiences for a meal like no other, from a private barbeque under the stars to an al fresco picnic accompanied by a movie on the outdoor cinema screen.

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest will welcome guests from 1 November 2019. Rates for 2019 start from USD $2,000 for single occupancy in a Forest King Lodge and includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, non-alcoholic beverages and 2 complimentary activities per person, per day. For more information or reservations, please visit: oneandonlyresorts.com