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Sarova Woodlands- the lastest addition to Nakuru life.! |
Nakuru has seen an upward graph in investment and various other segments in the recent past; tourism and hospitality being one of them. Nakuru is overwhelmed with experience launch of a new 5-star hotel. Situated near the Nakuru – Nairobi highway, sprawling over the upscale region of Milimani near State House, Sarova Lodge stands tall attracting any visitor who plans a visit. I planned a visit with my family and had the opportunity to explore this lavish hotel and of course, it’s cuisine. The building is an excellent architecture with warm and welcoming staff, which greets and guides you up to the dining room. We stepped into restaurant Cinnamon, a fabulously spaced leather finish furniture decorated arena. Cinnamon serves Pan African, Indian as well as the continental menu.
The first glance: There is no doubt that any first-timer will be impressed by the lavish entrance of Sarova Lodge and Spa. Splurged by gracious semi-automatic doors on both sides, the looks is obviously a royal one.
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The lavish entrance |
The warm and hospitable staff seated at the reception will attract you with her warm smile and explain you the services. If you are looking for a stay in this luxurious 5-star hotel, you will be directed towards the rooms. Basically, there are standard rooms, suites, and restaurants under the same roof, you may pamper yourself in the spa or take a dip in the swimming pool. There is no dearth of services that can make you feel lesser than a ‘royal’. Suites are classified as State suites, studio suites, and executive suites. There is a leather bar, which indulges you to experience the special blends- cognac or single malt while relaxing or having an unwinding business chat. There is a Courtyard, - where guests meet and enjoy light eclectic tea, freshly brewed coffee and a selection of light meals fresh from the oven.
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Cinnamon restaurant |
We were directed towards the Cinnamon restaurant, which a fabulous place with a capacity to accommodate at least 100. Bearing a quite authentic look, wooden furniture, spacious tables and attractive cutlery, are definite to make your visit a memorable one. Combining some facilities like a boardroom and conference room, Sarova Lodge is undoubtedly an impressive image to any visitor in Nakuru.
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The backside of hote- a nice place to hangout! |
The service: The staffs were quite sincere and hospitable. We opted for buffet arrangement, although there was a choice to order food from the menu card. The restaurant specializes in Indian, Pan African and continental dished, and that was clearly visible. Restaurant staff helped us serving the food from respective areas. Children were taken care of and were served the special menu. The waiters were quite active in the offering, clearing and helping with any special requirements.
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Hospitable staff |
The food: The buffet cost 2,200 KES per person. There was the choice of welcome drinks- lemon water, soda or fruits juice. I was tempted by the choice of freshly chopped salad. With an array of potato sautéed in white sauce, black and green olives and other veggies tossed in olive oil, it was a good start. There was a good range soup as starters – carrot and ginger and green peas soup. Well, if you are a vegetarian, you won't be disappointed.
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Lemin drink- it's rejuvenating! |
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Lip smacking pea soup |
There is a range of vegetarian side dishes- penne pasta, roasted vegetable and potato wedges. I loved the Indian variety of dals- rajma, chola and paneer bhurji. After completion, I proceeded towards main course- jeera rice, mashed potatoes ugali and chapatti. Well, I guess nobody will ever be disappointed as they have taken care of all types of taste buds. Being a non-vegetarian I couldn’t restrict me from trying the roasted pork. It was awesome.
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Freshly chopped salad |
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Side dish of your choice |
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For the carnivores |
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Some dessert at last |
The other choice was beef and lamb chops. Pick your choice of sauce from the displayed on the shelves. All ends n a sweet note. There was a wide choice of desserts – chocolate mousse, carrot cake, and cheesecake. You may pick a bowl filled with your choice of seasonal fruits kept over the shelves. It was an awesome experience.
The verdict: The luncheon experience was unique. The restaurant was unique in its kind and visiting the newly opened five-star hotels in the town was itself a matter of pride. Nakurians love exploring new places, discover new restaurants, new dishes and end up in a permanent relationship with the venue. My rating to this restaurant, food, and service will be 4.5/5 stars.