Mama Njeri

In Nairobi, everyone knows Mama Njeri. Her nyama choma (grilled meat) restaurant started as a single grill by the roadside and has grown into a beloved institution that draws crowds every evening. The secret to her legendary grilled meats lies in her marinade - a closely guarded family recipe involving honey, ginger, and a special blend of spices. But more than the recipe, it's her technique that sets her apart. She insists on grilling everything over acacia wood charcoal, which imparts a subtle sweetness to the meat. "My mother grilled meat for my father every Sunday," Mama Njeri recalls. "I would sit and watch, learning the fire, learning the timing. Now my grandchildren sit and watch me. This is how we keep our traditions alive."