However, dinning at Ngong House turned out to be a “mysterious” event, to say the least. Initially, several attempts to book a table failed as no one picked up the phone. Then, arriving at the hotel was a stressful adventure itself. The GPS could not find the way, and luckily the hotel staff was kind enough to rescue us. We were lost in the hotel area for more then half an hour. We had actually driven by the hotel entrance, through a dark street without public illumination, but there was no visible indication of the hotel, and we missed it. With the hotel staff we drove through a dark driveway off the main road until with spotted a hotel sign. The parking lot was dark and empty. Once at the hotel we were kindly greeted by several employees, but there was no sign of guests. There was actually none. We asked for the menu, but it was not available. The maitre, offered “meat, chicken or fish” choices with vegetable. Once our orders had been placed, we were still requested to wait for the table to be ready, and meanwhile were able to calmly enjoy some cocktails at the reception. We were later led to our table, which was located outside the reception building. We were guided through a narrow dark path through the bushes, until we arrived at a round hut, built with a thatched roof, short external walls and no windows designed in a simple but nice Swahili style to allow the flow of air. In the hut there was a long and well-decorated table, maybe a bit too big for 4 people, with chandeliers, and no artificial lights. Several small fireplaces built in the wall, which surrounded us, were lit. The atmosphere was cozy, quiet and private, as no other guests were around. We were still feeling strange about the place, and this amazing atmosphere helped to relax, although the place was different from the restaurant pictures I had seen on the website. It was a secluded area. We ordered wine, and again no wine list was available. We were offered inexpensive South African wine, which was inappropriate and expensive. We patiently waited for the food another while. Although lacking creativity for a kitchen run by a recommended European chef, the food was tasty. Apparently the chef was not in that evening. On our way out, another “mysterious” surprise: credit cards were not accepted, and this turned out to be an issue. The stuff however managed well the situation and a comfortable solution was found. To tell the truth we all found the place very charming. It felt as if we were out of Nairobi in a nice safari lodge. However, the overall approach by the staff left us uncomfortably thinking that this dinner could be some kind of scam, particularly as both the kitchen and bar had low value for money, only cash was acceptable and no receipts were given. I would like to return, but in a more predictable and transparent opportunity.
- Also Known As:
- Ngong House Hotel Nairobi
- Ngong House Hotel
Region:
Kenya >
Nairobi
Amenities:
Restaurant
Swimming Pool
Ranked #4 of 74 Specialty lodging in Nairobi
Price Range:
$
- Official Description (provided by the hotel):
-
Ngong House is a private, serene and luxurious homestay 20 minutes away from the city centre. The lodge overlooks the Ngong Hills, only a few minutes away from what used to be Karen Blixen Coffee Farm. Secluded in 10 acres of private land, it is very close to Nairobi National Park, 40 minutes away from Nairobi International Airport and 15 minutes away from Wilson Airport, from where all air safaris take off. Accommodation is mainly in luxurious Tree-Houses.
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