About This Spot

Arriving at Meza Malonga feels like stepping into a carefully woven tapestry of place, tradition, and innovation. Nestled by the serene waters of Lake Ruhondo, this fine dining destination invites you to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and embark on a journey that marries landscape with cuisine. The gentle rhythm of the lake, paired with the tasteful, understated décor, creates an atmosphere where every moment feels intimate yet expansive—a quiet celebration of the senses.

From the moment you arrive, the pace is unhurried, inviting you to savor more than just the meal. The experience begins even before entering the restaurant, often with a picturesque boat ride across the lake, setting a tone of thoughtful discovery and connection to nature. Inside, the ambiance is warm and welcoming, with attentive staff who guide you gently through a memorable culinary journey without ever feeling intrusive.

Here, food is more than sustenance—it’s a dialogue between earth and table, shaped by African spices and seasonal ingredients grown in the restaurant’s own garden. Each dish offers a subtle interplay of familiar comforts and unexpected flavors, from the delicate balance of spices that awaken each bite to the vibrant freshness of fruits and vegetables chosen with care. The menu flows naturally, with thoughtful pauses between courses that allow each flavor to linger and fully reveal itself.

The kitchen’s thoughtful approach is mirrored in the small, personal touches—from the choice of silverware to the chef’s stories about the origins of the spices and produce. Such moments deepen the connection to the meal and the rich cultural tapestry it represents, making dining at Meza Malonga feel less like a service and more like shared hospitality.

It’s a place where time bends around good taste and meaningful presence, perfect for those who seek a quiet celebration of culinary craftsmanship, layered with local stories and the gentle hum of the lake. Whether you find yourself savoring the nuanced umami of perfectly prepared steak or refreshing sorbets that spotlight passion fruit, each visit feels like uncovering a new chapter of Rwanda’s vibrant food landscape.

What’s Available Here

  • IconOutdoor seating
  • IconDine-in
  • IconOn-site services
  • IconFireplace
  • IconGreat coffee
  • IconGreat dessert
  • IconGreat wine list
  • IconRooftop seating
  • IconSport
  • IconLunch
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconAssistive hearing loop
  • IconWheelchair-accessible car park
  • IconWheelchair-accessible entrance
  • IconWheelchair-accessible seating
  • IconWheelchair-accessible toilet
  • IconAlcohol
  • IconBeer
  • IconCocktails
  • IconCoffee
  • IconHalal food
  • IconOrganic dishes
  • IconSmall plates
  • IconSpirits
  • IconVegan options
  • IconVegetarian options
  • IconWine
  • IconBrunch
  • IconLunch
  • IconCatering
  • IconDessert
  • IconTable service
  • IconBar on site
  • IconGender-neutral toilets
  • IconToilet
  • IconWi-Fi
  • IconWi-Fi
  • IconCosy
  • IconQuiet
  • IconRomantic
  • IconTrendy
  • IconFamily friendly
  • IconGroups
  • IconTourists
  • IconReservations required
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconNFC mobile payments
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconGood for kids
  • IconFree of charge street parking
  • IconFree parking lot
  • IconOn-site parking
  • IconParking

Location & Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 11:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Friday 11:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Saturday 11:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Sunday 11:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Guest Reviews

Gerald Stockinger 06 Jan 2026

The whole experience at Meza Malonga was fantastic: We spent an amazing day at the food experience at the new Meza Malonga in Musanze. We were picked up with a boat at the pier and started our day with a boat ride across the stunningly beautiful lake. At the venue we first got a tour and some welcome drinks. The whole project of Mr Malonga is so visionary and you get the feeling you are in a temple for foodies - built to connect talented young people and spread the word about the tastes of various African cuisines. The 8 course menue was one of the best things I have ever eaten. Placed at a table with a stunning view across the lake, the super hospitable and friendly team served 8 very refined sets of dishes. So most courses consist of 2-4 smaller dishes that are built around a common theme (e.g. beet root). Many of the dishes had a specific spice as main focal point, which is so interesting because it is a very different approach, but lead for me to experience completely new taste profiles, which I've never tried before. The wine pairing consisted mostly of very well selected South African wines that were in line with the African theme. If that wasn't enough already the vegetables are grown on their own local farms, which guarantees high quality of the produce components. In between the courses we had some time to meet the other guests and enjoy the scenery. So, this is probably the most enthusiastic review I have ever written, but the unique combination of atmosphere, hospitality, idealistic vision, focused concept and last but not least delicious food totally deserves it. Great value for money as well. I hope Mr Malonga will write a cook book or create a spice collection for export in the future, so we can try to recreate some of the delicious tastes at home in Austria :-)

Rebecca Stern 06 Jan 2026

I had an incredible dining experience at Meza Malonga. Every dish was thoughtfully crafted and presented beautifully. I loved getting to try different spices and ingredients from across the African continent, like sorghum and cassava. The atmosphere is wonderful, with a gorgeous view of the city. The staff is so kind and very attentive. They were also incredible with working with dietary restrictions, as I don’t eat meat. They provided meat-free substitutions expertly. It was 10 courses, 18 different dishes, and all were spectacular, especially the final dessert. You can tell how much thought, care, and love is put into every dish. It was a luxury experience. The timing between the dishes was also perfect. Each person at my table agreed that it was well worth it. I’m also inspired by how generous and kind the chef is. He is very committed to supporting young chefs in Africa and sharing his knowledge. I am so grateful and glad that I had the opportunity to dine here!

Irenej Kolšek 02 Jan 2026

Very special place and totally worth the price in my opinion. We had 9 or 10 rounds and the waiting time in between wasn't too long (less than 10' on average). Food was simply amazing and the fusion of african spices (than we've never seen before) was very special. Wine seemed a bit on the pricey edge (16-20k per glass), but the whole experience was worth it.

Christine Hansen 23 Dec 2025

We had an absolutely wonderful experience. The restaurant is tastefully decorated and pleasant to be in. The food is exceptional with a lovely chef who is by no means haughty or arrogant but down to earth and with an amazing array of culinary skills. The food was so, so good. From perfect Umami to poignant notes that just hit the spots: we can highly recommend this.

Ellie Rose Akbar 14 Dec 2025

Chef Malonga has created a beyond beautiful dining experience. Taking care in every choice from the well balanced silverware to the personal connection of coming out and explaining where the different spices come from and how the ingredients are sourced. Innovative beyond imagination, each dish is prepared based on what is growing and in season in their garden- so you will not have the same dining experience twice. Every single dish we had was a delightful experience from flavor to texture to presentation. A true gem in a lovely and quiet location.

Costa Mavroleon 08 Dec 2025

Lived up to all the hype. Amazing food, genuinely kind, unpretentious and attentive service. Tartare, beef filet, Mombasa shrimp and cucumber salad were my favorites. Also loved the luxuriously slow pace of the meal - for a tasting menu we felt comfortably full by the end. No need to do any wine pairing. Fairly priced South African wine by the glass was available and was outstanding - we had seven glasses. I would go again next time in Kigali. Be sure to hit up the rum bar downstairs afterwards.

Brian Zhou 19 Nov 2025

undoubtedly the highest echelon of fine dining, sourced with local, community-based, high quality ingredients and featuring a diversity of rich spices and flavors from all across the African continent. i loved the element of surprise involved with the set menu…. everything was so amazing that we ended up taking notes on each course to remember the flavors and subtleties, in the hope we can be inspired for our own culinary tastes. this was top 3 best dinners i’ve ever had at a restaurant!

S. Mpenda 28 Oct 2025

Meza Malonga is, without a doubt, the best culinary experience I've ever had. What makes it truly stand out is the chef himself. He’s one of the most humble people I’ve ever met, but his dedication to his craft is unmatched. He travels all over Africa to discover authentic dishes and unique ingredients, many of which he grows on his own farm. You can taste the thought and passion that goes into every dish—it’s not just food, it’s a journey. On top of that, he has an amazing training program for his local staff, giving them the skills to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. Meza Malonga isn’t just about great food; it’s about celebrating African flavors and craftsmanship in the best way possible.

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