Cosmopolitan’s menu variety to match a UN crowd

Monica Cheru

On a Wednesday afternoon, perfect day for a midweek hangout, my friend and I decided on Cosmopolitan Restaurant along Churchill Road.

Cosmopolitan’s external floral extravaganza just draws you in and of course in the sunny weather, we were not going to sit inside when there are two outdoor settings to pick from.

We chose the back garden. The front patio is also equally lovely and grants front row seats if you want to keep an eagle eye on the chef while your food is being prepared.

We got there just after 12, as we wanted a long and leisurely one while catching each other up on what has been going on.

Fungai, our waiter for the day immediately came up to introduce himself and offer the drinks menu.

My friend being of the teetotal school laughed at my woebegone expression and unhappy mutterings as I skipped the cocktail and wine selection to debate the wisdom of starting with a milkshake or saving myself for a dessert indulgence.

Delayed gratification won and so it was a coke for me and a ginger beer for my pal.

Then onto the business of the day. What to eat.

My friend wanted a light meal and was torn between two chicken salads. With Fungai’s recommendation, she opted for the grilled chicken. I convinced her to go for the large serving so I could sneak a few bites.

I decided on a Kingklip steak served with fries and Fungai said our food would be served in 15 to 20 minutes.

We debated taking a quick peek in the shops that are on the premises offering a bouquet of services that includes a travel agency, a kids’ apparel, bed linen, kitchen ware among other things.

But we were too indolent and more interested in our own exchange.

Our meal arrived within the set time and we fell to with gusto.

The kingklip was succulent with a crispy outside and juicy interior. Pure heaven. but a bit more than I bargained for. The portion is gigantic.

I found the fries slightly too brown although the creamy and tangy mayonnaise was on point, just the right balance to the flavour of the fish.

I would have loved a bit more of the cucumber, lettuce and tomato tucked in the corner. But all in all it was a great dish.

My friend loved her grilled chicken salad. She said the presentation of the dish jerked up her rather wan appetite. We both couldn’t figure out what the salty dried dark item could be and later found out the chef tosses in sun dried tomatoes.

The tables around us were gradually filling up with quite an eclectic crowd. Business types in intense discussions. A laid back group that could have been a poster for United Nations was probably made up of top NGO executives.

A trio of young mothers appeared relived to be able to sit there, keeping one eye on the kids playing in the colourful centre while having some adult conversation.

The Cosmopolitan has a great menu which includes Italian and Asian choices. The wood fired pizzas looked promising and I will definitely be back for those.

Sadza eaters are also covered although it appears one has to check for availability.

A great place for lunch, Cosmopolitan is also ideal for evening dates and small group events and birthday celebrations.

Unfortunately dessert was not on the cards for my friend and I, as a summoning call ruined the day.

I had honestly been worried about service after reading some reviews on Google. Almost everyone agreed that the food is excellent but service did not match.

It seems they have taken the observations to heart and improved that aspect as Fungai was most attentive. The hand of experienced restarant Nick Mandeya formerly of Adrienne's, is very obvious.

One of the staff members informed us that there are some activities lined up including a young people's fair.

Rating: 8/10

Expect to spend: $10-$30 per head

Kid friendly: Yes