By Alfrique O. Mwana
In the heart of Nanyuki, near the base of Mount Kenya, there’s a spot called The Croft that has become more than just an eatery. It is a destination, a story, a gathering place where fire and flavour intertwine to create unforgettable experiences. This is the tale of The Croft, a barbecue haven that has ignited the hearts and appetites of locals and travellers alike.
The Croft’s story begins with a dream, a vision to unite people through the universal language of food. The founders, seasoned travellers with a deep appreciation for culture and cuisine, sought to capture the essence of Kenya’s rich culinary traditions while infusing global influences. They envisioned a place where the aroma of sizzling meats and the laughter of satisfied diners would blend into a melody of warmth and camaraderie.
The Croft takes guests on a sensory journey from entering its doors. The rustic yet contemporary decor speaks of adventure, with weathered wooden tables, soft lighting, and open flames flickering from the open grill. The sound of meat searing on hot grates fills the air, mingling with the hum of conversations and the occasional clink of glasses raised in celebration.
But the true magic of The Croft lies in its menu, a carefully curated selection of barbecue delights that tell their own stories. The succulent ribs, marinated for hours in a blend of Kenyan spices, echo the ancient grilling traditions of the Swahili coast. The tender lamb chops, kissed by the flames of a wood-fired grill, bring to mind the nomadic herders of Laikipia, who have perfected the art of roasting meat over open fires. The beef, cooked to perfection, effortlessly separates from the bone, ensuring that even those with delicate teeth can savour every bite without worry.
A diverse array of meats is always on display, catering to pork, lamb, goat, or beef lovers, allowing diners to select their preferred cut. To complement these protein-rich feasts, The Croft offers a range of perfectly prepared carbohydrates from classic ugali to crispy French fries and hearty roasted potatoes. Additionally, grilled smoky vegetables, freshly harvested from local farms, pay homage to the region’s fertile lands and the dedicated hands that cultivate them, adding a wholesome balance to every plate.
Each plate is a meal and a tribute to the flavours and traditions that make Kenyan barbecue unique. Beyond the food, The Croft is a place where stories are shared. Travellers recount their adventures over plates of juicy steak and steaming ugali. Families celebrate milestones, their laughter harmonizing with the crackling flames. Solo wanderers find comfort in the welcoming embrace of good food and even better company. The passionate and warm staff ensure that every guest leaves satisfied and has a memory to carry forward.
A diverse array of steaming and chilled beverages awaits, featuring exquisite Kenyan and Ethiopian teas and coffees. For the lovers of artisanal libations, there’s a generous supply of craft beer skillfully brewed to perfection. This delightful craft beer derives from sustainable biofuels, crafted exclusively from natural elements while harnessing 100% renewable energy at the enchanting Kedong Valley, located along Kenya’s magnificent Great Rift Valley escarpment.
The Croft also offers cosy accommodations, where each room is designed with comfort and elegance in mind. Furnished with handcrafted wooden beds, soft linen, and warm lighting, the rooms create a sanctuary for relaxation after a day of exploration. Large windows provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, allowing guests to wake up to the golden hues of the sunrise and drift to sleep under a sky filled with stars. The mornings at The Croft are nothing short of magical. As the sun rises, it casts a golden glow over the land, illuminating the dew-kissed grass and distant mountain peaks. Birds sing their melodious tunes, welcoming a new day filled with promise.
For those seeking adventure beyond the dining table, The Croft’s surroundings offer an array of adrenaline-pumping activities. Just a short drive away, thrill-seekers can embark on game drives in the famous Ol Pejeta Conservancy, where they can spot the Big Five and get up close with endangered rhinos. Those with a taste for heights can try zip-lining through lush canopies or challenge themselves with rock climbing and abseiling at the scenic Ngare Ndare Forest. Horseback safaris offer a unique way to explore breathtaking landscapes, while quad biking through rugged terrains guarantees an exhilarating ride. Take a ride to Nanyuki to explore the Central Business District and enjoy the hospitality of its cosmopolitan population. And for the ultimate rush, skydiving over the expansive plains of Nanyuki provides an unmatched bird’s-eye view of Mount Kenya and the surrounding wilderness.
On the other hand, the evenings are painted in fiery orange and deep crimson hues as the sun sets, casting long shadows over the rolling plains. As darkness falls, the sky becomes a canvas of twinkling stars while the cool, fresh air carries the distant sounds of nature, crickets chirping, the whisper of the wind through acacia trees, and the occasional hoot of an owl. The Croft comes alive in a different way. The glow of lanterns along the footpath, the strumming of a guitar from a local musician, and the soft murmur of conversations under the starlit sky transform the restaurant into more than just a dining spot. It becomes a living, breathing experience, a place where the past and present meet and every meal is a journey through fire, flavour, and the heart of Kenya.
The Croft’s menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to individual diners and larger gatherings. In addition to the à la carte offerings, special group packages are available for parties of 15 or more. Pricing starts at 20,000 Kenya Shillings for a group of 15, scaling up to 70,000 Kenya Shillings for a gathering of 50. A tailored menu for groups exceeding 50 members is crafted to suit specific preferences and ensure a seamless dining experience. Whether it’s a family reunion, a corporate retreat, or a lively celebration, The Croft ensures every meal is as memorable as the occasion itself.
Beneath the expansive canopy of twinkling stars, dive into the world of cinema, surrounded by enchanting fairy lights, snug hay-bale seating, sumptuous blankets, and the gentle glow of candlelit wooden crates that create a beautiful atmosphere. Armed with silent cinema headphones and a stunning outdoor setting, this is more than just a movie evening; it evolves into an unforgettable escapade! It evokes nostalgia, reminiscent of the golden days of outdoor cinema and roaming film screenings. Nairobians flocked to the Fox cinema venue or Bellevue to enjoy films under the night sky. At the same time, mobile vans raced from one village to another to erect giant screens in the village squares, bringing joy to the local folk with cinematic delights.
Sundays at The Croft are about family, friends, and good food. Guests gather for a leisurely brunch, enjoying exquisite dishes and soft, soulful music. Each Sunday brings a different musical genre to whet your appetite, setting the perfect mood for a relaxed and memorable experience. It’s a time to unwind, share stories, and make new memories over delicious food and delightful tunes. The Croft is more than just a restaurant—it’s also a stunning venue for special occasions. The open, well-manicured grounds provide the perfect setting for white and traditional weddings, birthdays, team-building sessions, and conferences. The lush green grass, soft beneath your feet, offers a welcome break from the confines of shoes, inviting guests to relax and truly savour the moment.
The journey to The Croft from Nairobi is an adventure in itself. As travellers navigate the scenic highlands, the road unfolds into picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, vast tea plantations, and dense Ngare-Ndare forests with wildlife. At the equator point, listen to locals give detailed explanations with demonstrations. The air grows crispier with each passing kilometre, carrying the refreshing scent of eucalyptus and the promise of tranquillity. Travelling has been made easy; if you use public means, at a fee of 500 Kenya shillings, you will get to Nanyuki and make your way to the Croft using boda-boda. If in private vehicles, the roads to the Croft are well paved, even for the low clearance vehicles to pass, allowing you to savour The Croft’s delicacies.
So, whether you’re a weary traveller seeking solace in a hearty meal or a local looking to reconnect with the tastes of home, The Croft awaits you with a sizzling grill. Come, sit by the fire, and let the flavours of Nanyuki tell their tale.
The writer is a communication consultant
otienoalfy@gmail.com
