“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well,” said Virginia Woolf. This timeless truth resonated profoundly during my recent visit to The View, the 360-degree revolving restaurant in Nairobi, located at Movenpick Hotel and Residence. The afternoon was nothing short of spectacular, and I’d like to take you through what turned out to be a delightful experience.
As we ascended to the 24th floor, the anticipation built with each floor. Stepping out of the elevator, we were greeted by an elegant ambiance and panoramic views that immediately set The View apart. The slow, almost imperceptible rotation of the restaurant ensures that diners enjoy a constantly changing vista of the city below, making every moment unique. Alongside various media and business personalities, including Randy Ngala, the PR and Marketing Manager of Movenpick Hotel and Residences, who was our gracious host, we were ready for the treat.
Our afternoon began with a welcome drink, an effervescent sparkling wine that set the perfect tone for the occasion. As we mingled among friends, catching up and sharing laughter, the ambiance grew ever more delightful. The new Executive Chef at Movenpick, Chef Archie, a culinary virtuoso known for transforming ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences, greeted us warmly. He enthusiastically walked us through the exquisite menu he and his talented team had prepared for us.
Having the chef personally explain each dish during a food tasting event, enhances the overall experience significantly. It allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the ingredients, cooking techniques, and the inspiration behind each creation. I always look forward to this part of any food tasting experience. In turn, it also gives you a chance to give immediate feedback.
The menu was a masterful blend of contemporary and classic dishes, each paired with a carefully selected wine to enhance the flavors and textures. Here’s a glimpse of the tasting menu that awaited us:
Mediterranean Colada Shrimp: The journey began with succulent shrimp, delicately seasoned and bursting with the flavors of the Mediterranean.
French Cream of Wild Mushrooms: Flavored with aromatic truffle, this velvety soup was a celebration of earthy richness, perfectly balanced to warm the soul. It is actually one of Chef Archie’s special creations.
Seared Scallops Milanese: Nestled over a bed of saffron risotto and topped with luxurious caviar, the scallops were seared to perfection.
Foraged Wild Berry Sorbet: This refreshing interlude cleansed our palates with its vibrant, tangy sweetness, perfectly preparing us for the main course. It quickly became one of my favorites, and I couldn’t stop raving about it to the friend seated in front of me.
Sliced Rack of Lamb: The main dish featured a beautifully presented rack of lamb, accompanied by sautéed potatoes, cauliflower puree, and a rich red wine jus. The lamb was tender and flavorful, a true testament to Chef Archie’s culinary prowess. Although I wished the portion was slightly larger, I absolutely loved every bite. You can never go wrong with lamb, and this dish was no exception.
Trio of Desserts: The meal concluded with a delightful trio of desserts—tiramisu, pavlova, and chocolate orange mousse. Each dessert was a miniature masterpiece, offering a perfect ending to a wonderful afternoon of food, drinks and good company, on the 24th floor of Movenpick Hotel and Residences.
Chef Archie’s expert guidance and the meticulously crafted dishes made this tasting not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience. The combination of exquisite food, perfectly paired wines, and the enchanting revolving view of the city below created an experience that left us all wishing it could last forever. For anyone seeking a dining experience that transcends the ordinary, The View at Movenpick is a must-visit destination.
