the Review By. the Lord Kempson Ari de Visé
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he hallmark of a great restaurant
is in the attention to detail and the symphony of flavors the food creates in
your mouth. The service should be seamless and the experience a pleasantly
lingering one. Such an establishment exits in the labyrinth that is Lusaka, an
absolute treat for the taste buds and a memorable culinary experience. With
something gastronomic for everyone, let us partake in a serving of something
dulcé.
The chef at any restaurant is the
soul of the enterprise with their character reflected in the food,
the environment and energy as well as the conduct of the staff. Such is the
elegance the Director/Head chef Jessie Chipindo permeates
into her restaurant Dulcé
& Banana. Her warmth is notable and is visible in the sophisticated
spectacle that is served. The menu indeed reflects the name and wit that was
inspired by Lorraine
Pascal’s desert
(Dulcé and Banana) and does it a proud ode. The business is fully Zambian
owned and
run, and employees local staff (whom the chef has personally trained). The
restaurant offers both traditional Zambian food as well as international
cuisine, in fresh and serene environment. Everything on offer is unique and to die for and is as sweet as the name Dulcé (Italian
for sweet) suggests.
If the espresso is creamy,
chances are very high that the experience will be great too. On not one but two
occasions, I could found no fault with chef, meal or service, (a sentiment
backed by my accomplice). The amazing wings (served with a side of fries),
compelled me to show up for brunch on a Monday. The ribs where so juicy and
tender, the flesh pealed right off the bone. The accompanying mash was mind
blowing, the texture was creamy and the intricate components of sun-dried tomatoes and coriander transcended the mashed potatoes. I also took the liberty
of sampling the Creamy Prawn and
Mushroom Pasta from my partner in crime’s late (served on trendy crockery),
the dish was creamy, well seasoned, the pasta made from scratch and each component
of the dish could be tasted (none overpowering the other). The Death
by Chocolate cake had me o the ropes as my belly ached from the
satisfaction of a great feast. The ingredient were fresh, of the highest
quality and organic, portions are generous and hearty, the prices very fair, a
treat worth every penny. 
And so as it is and has always
been and shall always be food and fashion go hand in hand. Being served by a
smiling and vivacious urbane chef with a great fashion sense (Tom Ford cat’s
eyes, an animal print Guess watch and cute ankle boots) is that extra savoir
faire that ties the whole affair together. Did I mention she also makes the cocktails
such as a refreshing mojito? Dulcé & Banana transcends food; it is a way of life. It’s a lifestyle of which I
approve, an establishment where I can and want to spend my summer by the pool
side (yes you can it by the pool), spring by the terrace and winter on the
patio, a well deserved 5ive forks tip indeed. Call +260975913558 and make that reservation now.
Located on Alick Nkhata Road (at the Swedish School next to Pope Square) in
Lusaka, and open from 8am, Monday to Saturday treat yourself to breakfast, lunch and
dinner, bring along a friend, associate or significant other and make it a
dulcé selfie moment.
