If you are a foodie, you know that the best restaurants are often hidden gems tucked away in the most unexpected places. La Galette is one of those places, a secret garden of Kigali eateries. The combination of a restaurant, a butchery, a bakery, a small market, and bar is tucked away in a quiet corner downtown. Because its location is hidden in the city’s maze of a layout, La Galette is a treasure to those who can find it.
When I finally found this mysterious La Galette for the first time, I was pleased to find the food lived up to its reputation. They make a better burger than most. The meat is seasoned nicely and has chopped up onions and garlic squeezed into fresh bread.
La Galette is a lovely spot for breakfast. Those with a flexible schedule (or no schedule) can enjoy a quiet morning with a good coffee or omelet on the patio. All seating is outdoors but most tables are under shelter. There’s also a large tree in the middle of the patio that casts patchy shade over tables making dining all the more charming! But take care, it’s enchanted by a wily Nymph who drops leaves in drinks.
La Galette is known for its great butchery and bakery. They have a nice produce section too. You will find an array of fresh fruits and vegetables washed and wrapped in plastic for shoppers’ convenience.
Other few things that caught my eye when I looked around were Lea and Perrins Worcestershire sauce, apple sauce, Philadelphia cream cheese, and those delectable Danish butter cookies in the blue tin. These items may be elsewhere in Kigali, but they are all under one roof at La Galette. There’s also a nook of wine and spirits.
if you are looking for a hidden gem in Kigali, La Galette should be at the top of your list. The combination of a restaurant, a butchery, a bakery, a small market, and bar is a unique concept that sets La Galette apart from the rest. The restaurant’s burgers are a must-try, and the outdoor patio is the perfect spot for breakfast. With its charm, fresh produce, and hard-to-find items, La Galette is a place that will keep you coming back for more.
Hours: 8am – 5pm, Monday-Friday
Phone: 0786 404 538
Note: This article was originally published in 2013 and updated in 2023 by Gary L.
Good place for a lunch
Does anone know if they keep bicarbonate of soda? I gave my daughter (resident in Kigali) recipes while she was here at home (Italy) for Christmassy goodies, including a dried fruit cake and ginger biscuits, among other things. She forgot to take the bicarb with her, and now she’s stuck! I fear her experiment with just self-raising flour today may be either a sinking disaster or a crowning catstrophe!! Either way – hmmmm Thanks, Judy – see you there in February when we visit!