Restaurant
The Roots Restaurant
Garden restaurant on Kafu Road in Nakasero dedicated to Ugandan cooking, from luwombo and matooke to smoked fish, roast goat and the Acholi dish boo.
Khana Khazana
Long-running Punjabi restaurant on Acacia Avenue in a historic house with a garden, known for tandoori dishes, creamy northern curries and a long vegetarian list.
At a glance
- Type
- North Indian
- Area
- Kololo, Kampala, Uganda
- Price
- $$$ · Upscale
Good to know
- Garden dining
- Vegetarian options
- Secure parking
Why we recommend it
Khana Khazana, whose name means food treasury, is one of Kampala's longest-established Indian restaurants. It has served North Indian cooking from its address on Acacia Avenue for more than 20 years and is popular with both residents and visitors. The restaurant occupies a historic house with a leafy garden courtyard and a semi-open dining area, decorated in a Rajasthan-inspired style with ornate columns and colourful silks. A water fountain sits in the garden courtyard, and on a dry evening the outdoor tables are the most atmospheric in the house.
The menu is long, with more than 140 dishes according to the official Visit Kampala listing, and focuses on Punjabi and northern Indian food. Tandoori dishes and rich, creamy curries are the heart of it. Starters reviewed by the Daily Monitor include masala papad, vegetable cheese kebab, chicken tikka, mixed kebab platters and tandoori chicken; mains include mutton rogan josh, butter chicken and dal makhani, with rice and plain or garlic naan. The Monitor singled out the dal makhani and jumbo prawns. Vegetarians are well catered for, and the menu runs from mild dishes to properly spicy ones.
The restaurant serves lunch and dinner. Sources differ on the closing day, so call ahead before planning a visit early in the week. Booking is sensible on Friday and Saturday evenings, especially for groups or if you want a garden table. Smoking is not allowed indoors, and there is secure parking. It is not a budget choice, so expect to pay more than at a casual cafe; drinks include beer, wine, juice and soft drinks.
It suits couples and families, and works well for a relaxed group dinner where everyone shares several curries and breads. Order a mix of tandoori starters, a dal and a meat curry, and plenty of naan, and you will get a good sense of the kitchen.
Acacia Avenue, now officially John Babiha Avenue, runs through Kololo, one of Kampala's main areas for restaurants and bars. Acacia Mall and the bars of Kisementi are a short walk away, so it is easy to continue the evening nearby, and Bubbles O'Learys is on the same road.
Khana Khazana FAQs
What kind of food does Khana Khazana serve?
North Indian and Punjabi food, especially tandoori dishes, creamy curries and naan breads.
Where is Khana Khazana?
At 20 Acacia Avenue (John Babiha Avenue) in Kololo.
Is it good for vegetarians?
Yes. There is a wide choice of vegetarian dishes, including dal makhani.
What should I order?
Tandoori starters, dal makhani, butter chicken or mutton rogan josh, and garlic naan.
Do I need to book?
Booking is advisable on weekend evenings and for groups.
Is there parking?
Yes, secure parking is available.
Can you smoke inside?
No. Smoking is not allowed indoors.
How do I book?
Call +256 752 224002.