Gambero Rosso, the esteemed authority on Italian food and wine worldwide, has unveiled its selection of the finest Italian wine bars and restaurants in Kenya.
This inaugural recognition marks a significant milestone as Gambero Rosso expands its reach into East Africa, providing connoisseurs with a guide to experiencing the best of Italian cuisine and wine in Kenya.
At the first-ever Gambero Rosso Top Italian Wine Road Show in East Africa, held in Nairobi, leading Italian wine expert Marco Sabellico, senior editor of Gambero Rosso’s renowned Vini d’Italia guidebook, commended the passion for Italian wine and traditions in Kenya. He noted the country’s potential for further culinary exploration and highlighted the importance of maintaining authenticity in Italian cuisine.
Ten outstanding establishments were honored in the top Italian restaurants category, including Liv Vin, La Casa Di Nico, La Terrazza, and La Salumeria, among others, all located in Nairobi. Casa Mia in Diani, Roberto’s in Mombasa, and Visiwa in Watamu were also recognized for their exceptional offerings. In addition, notable pizzerias such as Pomodoro, Matteo’s, and Solo Grano, among others, were celebrated for their authentic Italian pizzas.
The top Italian wine bars category featured Wine & More, Enoteca, Winebox, New Italycor, and Liv Vin, offering enthusiasts a diverse selection of premium Italian wines. Sabellico emphasized the importance of quality and authenticity, ensuring that each establishment captures the essence of Italian cuisine and showcases the finest Italian ingredients.
The Gambero Rosso Top Italian Wine Road Show in Nairobi, organized by Vinpodium, welcomed 35 prestigious wineries representing fifteen wine regions of Italy. Attendees, including local and regional wine connoisseurs, traders, and importers, had the opportunity to sample over 150 premium awarded wines, spanning White, Red, Rose, and Sparkling varieties. The event also featured engaging wine masterclasses led by Sabellico and Kenyan wine expert and Sommelier, Victoria Mulu-Munywoki.
Mulu-Munywoki expressed confidence in Italian wines’ competitiveness in Kenya and East Africa, highlighting the growing interest among consumers for new grape varietals and wine styles. With between 25 to 30 million litres of wine sold in Kenya as of 2020, there is significant potential for the growth of Italian wines in the region. Gambero Rosso aims to increase awareness and consumption of Italian wines, particularly among new consumers and the younger generation.
Tiina Eriksson, International Business & Events Manager at Gambero Rosso, underscored Kenya’s role as a commercial gateway for East and Central Africa, with a burgeoning middle class eager to explore quality wines. Eriksson emphasized Italy’s rich history of winemaking and the unique indigenous grapes that contribute to its exceptional wine offerings.
Gambero Rosso’s Vini d’Italia guidebook, which reviews over 25,000 wines and awards ratings up to ‘Tre Bicchieri’ (Three Glasses), serves as a testament to the quality and diversity of Italian wines. As Gambero Rosso celebrates its 37 years of activity, its mission to promote Italian gastronomy and wine culture continues to resonate globally.
In conclusion, the recognition of Kenya’s top Italian enoteca and restaurants by Gambero Rosso signifies a milestone in the country’s culinary landscape, offering enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in the finest Italian cuisine and wines. With a growing appreciation for Italian gastronomy, Kenya is poised to become a vibrant hub for Italian culinary excellence in East Africa.
