The Sarova chain encapsulates the quintessential African experience; the Victorian age-old elegance of The Sarova Stanley and the epitome of neoafricanism at Sarova Panafric, both in the capital city of Nairobi; the vast tapestry of nature at Sarova’s bush lodges in the Mara, Lake Nakuru and Shaba, or the coastal paradise of Mombasa that is Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort.

Sarova Hotels, set up over 30 years ago, are the owners and operators of this unique collection of hotels, resorts and lodges. With an inventory of over a thousand rooms, Sarova Hotels is the leading player in Kenya’s hospitality industry. The chain is also present in England with hotels in London, Royal Windsor, Gerrards Cross and Great Malvern.

Arguably East Africa’s finest resort, Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa is located on one of the longest, magnificent beach fronts on the Kenyan coast.

Through the Bailliage of Mombasa the hotel has been a Chaîne member establishment for quite some time. The current Professional member there is its versatile and imaginative Executive Chef, Gurpreet Mehta.

Dining at the Sarova Whitesands is like embarking on a tour of the finest tastes in the world. Hotel guests have a wide choice of continental, Arabic, Swahili and Indian cuisine, all set out on magnificent displays.

The Resort’s Lido Seafood Grill is the restaurant which in fact was awarded the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Professionals plaque. Offering al-fresco dining amidst the palms on the beach with a stunning ocean view, it is renowned for its fresh seafood presented in dishes from a variety of cuisines as well as traditional favourites like grilled prawns, lobsters and crab.

The Resort regularly hosts the Bailliage’s Christmas Ball which traditionally starts the festive season in Mombasa. Working with Executive Chef Mehta the preparations for the dinner start months in advance with every detail from the menu to the wine pairing being carefully considered.

The menu always features traditional food with a modern twist. Given that it is one of the most popular events in the Bailliage’s annual programme, the formula and the location itself are obviously well chosen!


With thanks to Sarova Hotels, the Sarova Whitesands in particular, and Gurdeep Nayer, Bailli Honoraire of Mombasa, for their contribution and help in the preparation of this article.