Poivre Noir

Poivre Noir is a bistro run by a couple, John in the kitchen and Nathalie looking after guests and the wine list. They decided to open a restaurant in Kigali in 2014 and welcomed their first diners in March 2015, and it has been one of the city's reliable choices for a relaxed but carefully cooked dinner ever since.

The cooking is what the owners call bistronomy: Belgian and French bistro dishes with a creative touch, made with local and African ingredients. Regulars mention the white truffle risotto, cheese croquettes in the Belgian style, and burgers served with chips and coleslaw, which have become something of a signature. The bar makes a gin and cucumber cocktail that works as a lighter alternative to a mojito, and there is a wine list chosen by Nathalie.

The restaurant has moved to a larger home in Kimihurura, at KG 670 Street, with more space and parking, about five minutes from the city centre. The atmosphere is convivial rather than formal, which suits couples, small groups and anyone wanting a good meal without the occasion of a tasting menu. Prices are mid to upper range for Kigali.

Poivre Noir opens Monday to Saturday for lunch from noon to 2.30pm and for dinner from 6pm to 9.30pm, and it is closed on Sundays. The kitchen closes relatively early, so do not plan on arriving late in the evening. You can book by phone or on WhatsApp, which is the easiest way to reserve from abroad or from your hotel.

For visitors, the appeal is that the cooking is consistent and the welcome personal, since the owners are usually on hand. It is a sensible choice for a first or last night in Kigali when you want somewhere dependable, and the burger is a safe order for less adventurous eaters while the risotto and daily dishes show off what the kitchen can do with local produce.

Kimihurura has many of Kigali's restaurants and bars within a short ride of each other, so it is easy to combine dinner here with drinks elsewhere in the area. Repub Lounge is also in Kimihurura, and the Kigali Convention Centre roundabout is a few minutes away by taxi. Ask your driver for KG 670 Street, as the restaurant's earlier location may still appear on older maps and guides.