Several times a week, Trevor Ombija appears on Citizen TV, Kenya’s leading TV network, in suave neatly-cut suits that have defined his career for years – a career of elevation and style.
Off the screen, the TV personality is always busy running his private businesses including a co-owned establishment estimated at Ksh60 million in value.
Modestly named Samaki Samaki, a name aptly summarising its menu, the high-end restaurant is located in the affluent neighbourhood of Kileleshwa along Othaya Road.
The duo first leased the land and took a loan, which they are still servicing, from a local bank to facilitate its construction in 2021. After consolidating operational permit and a cluster of other much-needed business documents, the facility was officially opened in December that year.
“We started (the restaurant) almost one and a half years ago and officially opened in December. We are just the two of us but I own most of it.
“It was quite an expensive venture. I don’t own the land, it is leased. (The restaurant) is estimated at Ksh60 million,” he stated.
The result was a marvelous establishment incorporating indoor and outdoor dining dotted with exotic potted plants and open-air tented sitting areas.
Visitors are also treated to day beds as well as well done tables covered in white linen and surrounded by African traditional-style antic chairs.
For theme nights, which are done in plenty, live bands are invited to entertain dinners under classic golden lighting with a touch of garishly ritzy cocktails.
“The restaurants deals with all sea food, all sorts of foods and drinks including cocktails. We were fashioning it around sea food and Jazz.
“There is a bit of kienyeji (indigenous) food but other popular dishes are made of chicken, lamb chops and mbuzi (goat meat). We also have Ugali,” he added.
Among the bands who have graced the venue include Asta Ina and the Rouge band as well as James Jozee and the Gogosimo Band alongside a roster of deejays.
