3 Best Restaurants in Kampala, Uganda

Kampala's Mediterraneo serves up world-class Italian food to a fashionable crowd. Tiered hardwood decks encircle a leafy courtyard, creating intimate spaces decorated with vintage bric-a-brac. An expert kitchen team turns out exquisitely simple food using fresh local produce and specialist ingredients, flown in where necessary. The Breseola della Valtellina is the genuine article; veal Scallopine is served with real Fontana cheese; and Aragosta all Griglia uses rock lobster from the Kenyan coast. The pasta in their ravioli, agnolotti, or pappardelle dishes is made from scratch; and the wood-fired pizzas taste just like Naples. A Chef's Special menu is switched up regularly, keeping things fresh; and the well-curated wine list includes French, South African, and (of course) Italian labels.

This stylish, modern restaurant in the heart of buzzing Kisementi delivers accomplished fusion cuisine with considerable flair, transforming effortlessly from convivial café by day to happening eatery by night. Customers love the laid-back atmosphere of the Bistro's shaded terrace. Inside, statement decor and white-linen tablecloths create a more formal dining experience. First-class service has long been a hallmark, as has the eclectic menu: crowd-pleasers such as burgers, salads, and grills are presented alongside more exotic noodles, curries, sushi, and tapas. It doesn't stop there: a vegan menu (jackfruit curry, cassava fries); dedicated breakfast menu; gluten-free options; yummy desserts; freshly pressed juices; Arabica coffee and creamy shakes; quaffable wine; and expertly mixed cocktails complete the panoply of choice. Happy Hour (each day has a different theme) runs daily from 3 to 6; a three-piece band entertains diners on Friday night.

The only restaurant in Kampala with a license to serve game—the meat is sourced legally from registered South African game ranches—the Lawns unashamedly celebrates the wildest cuts of meat, with dishes like ostrich burgers, smoked kudu steak, or whole crocodile tail (preorder 2–3 hours). Manicured gardens and a beautiful wooden deck overlooking the perennially verdant golf course adds to the charm and ambience of this large eatery in central Kampala. More domesticated grilled meats are available for traditionalists; vegans and gluten-free diets also catered to. 

Tapas and classic cocktails are served from 4 pm to 2 am Monday to Saturday. Alfresco lunch and fine dining dinner are served 7 days a week.