Byba Peaches

Tamu Restaurant in Watamu, was birthed by Italian entrepreneur Roberto Lenzi who is also the owner of Crystal Bay, 7 Islands Resort and the beach bar restaurant Papa Remo in Watamu. Tamu restaurant beach club is perfectly located on the most beautiful serene beach of Watamu. The name Tamu is derived from Swahili language meaning Sweet; I concur!

“We decided to keep that name because we would love people to experience a sweet time as our customers. It’s an invitation to live a moment of pleasure-seeking and of beauty for the senses, not only for the food.” ~ Cecilia, Manager at Tamu Restaurant.

Tamu’s contemporary and cutting-edge style offers a classy and romantic ambience achieved by dim lights, slow classic music, natural wood and sleek white furniture which contrasts with the azure & green color of the sky horizon and of the Indian Ocean.  Moreover, its discreet location makes the restaurant a preferred Celebration and Special Occasion venue like birthdays and weddings.

What makes Tamu restaurant different from others in Watamu, is their bone fide creative culinary proposal of fusion cuisine. Technically, the fusion cuisine is an assortment of Mediterranean cuisines starting from Africa, embracing China, Japan, passing through Hawaii, to return to their origins, in the Mediterranean sea and to Italy. As a result, a variety of fresh meals, using the local food products to get an eclectic, intercultural wanderlusting experience to customers! Also, to promote the local food business.

The Head Chef, Diego, is the mastermind behind the aphrodisiac fusion cuisine.

Chef Diego professionally grew in Milan, and has worked as a food consultant globally which makes him a connoisseur of food; a food alchemist. To Diego, food has been a passion to him since he was a child inspired by his mother’s cooking.

“I like to think that a chef is like a senses alchemist that can make people feel good” says Diego Tosi.

According to Cecilia (Tamu’s Manager), Diego developed a very personal taste in the plates composition, that brings them into his preparations; a combination of his love for travels, people and the cultural melting pop. After a long experience in events, catering and working as executive chef in Milan, he was chosen by the entrepreneur Roberto Lenzi for Tamu, with the purpose of creating a creative and cosmopolitan cuisine experience in Watamu.

Cecilia also owns a Catering in Milan, Italy, which makes her the perfect Manager for Tamu Restaurant due to her expertise. What a strong team I must say!

My Tamu Experience

With special thanks to Roberto Lenzi, Cecilia and Diego, I had the pleasure of testing one of their fusion cuisines.

Tamu’s hot and cold mezze menu offers a variety of starters to kick start your appetite. A fine range of drinks and foods to suit all sorts of palates.

“Our proposal is enriched by a long list of international cocktail, both alcoholic and not, a good wine list, most of all from Italy (Casale del Giglio) and of course the cocktail drinks and shakes.” ~ Cecilia.

The fusion fare mezze included:

Starters

Truffle Crostini, Tomatoes Brushetta, Hummus, Fried Dumplings (Gnocco Fritto) and cucumber with spicy mayo.

Tropical Cocktail. Tamu has the best cocktails in town!

Main Meal

Octopus Carpaccio, Zucchini Crudites, Tapenade of sun dried tomatoes, citronette, and fresh rocket cream in healthy portions. Exotic sashimi of coral grouper, with leche de tigre with mango,maracuja, and fleur de lis flowers. Black rice uramaki with crab salad, cucumber, avocado, green curry paste and cashew nuts grain. Gyoza Japanese Ravioli with white fish and ginger with teriyaki sauce and wasabi sesame seeds.

PS: The Wasabi was Ho-Ho-HOootttTT!

Desserts

1. Pistachio chocolate salami and salted caramel ice-cream. 2. Marinated pineapple with quenelle of vanilla, ginger and cinnamon ice-cream, crumble biscuit, amaretti and fresh mint. 3. Maracuja sorbet basil, ginger caviar and drops of liquorice.

To my delight, the food was mouth-watering. Starting from starters to dessert, including their tropical cocktail. My taste buds were instantly aroused by their desserts which were oh! so foodgasmic, melting in my mouth. Needless to say, each dessert had its own magic! You must try one at least!

So, Peaches, my clumsy self tried using chopsticks for the first time to blend into the Japanese culture, but food went south, literally!

Diego, however, tried his luck of giving me a mini tutorial on how to hold chopsticks but as his student, I failed terribly.

Regardless, I congratulate myself for finally getting some food in my mouth using the chopsticks.  Shortly after the chopsticks hustle, I switched to my fork and knife eating like a proper adult. Grazie for the chopsticks tutorial Diego!

Tamu therefore will forever be memorable to me!

Cecilia, Tamu’s Manager (right) and Eunice, Tamu’s waitress (left)

Diego, Tamu’s Head Chef (left), Me (middle), Cecilia (right)

I would like to commend the whole Tamu team for a truly great dining experience; exquisite food quality, outstanding services and warm hospitality. The team conveys the grandeur and glory of the restaurant perfectly.

SURF AND TURF

Surf and Turf is a night grill on Tamu beach, every Saturdays from 6:30 p.m with music, and specialty cocktails. In Watamu, surfing and kite surfing are popular watersports and since there is a large European community, Surf and Turf is perfect for Aperetifs! Not to mention, JC Kitehouse is the best Kitesurfing School in town so expect the Kite Champions to be representing at Surf and Turf.

The “Surf and Turf” word expression comes from Los Angeles in the 70s and symbolizes the typical mixed plate of the wealthy American middle class. The original one, the “classic” one, is composed by lobster tail and beef fillet. So why not combine a little bit of Californian surfin’ spirit with the magnificent local fish and meat?” Exclaims Cecilia.

Tamu’s fusion plate comes with beef fillet, jumbo prawns, pork belly and buffalo chicken wings. They also offer the traditional Surf and Turf plate with lobster and beef fillet.

Tamu’s Surf and Turf setting has that Hawaiian theme with JC Kitehouse kiteboard and leis of plumeria flowers. The vibrant colors of the flowers pops the place giving it a tropical paradisiacal Hawaiian look and beats that gets you on a hula groove.

I would definitely recommend Tamu restaurant for those looking for pleasant moments  that will leave a mark in your taste buds and fun too! Aloha!

Live | Love | Laugh

Rock and Sea Bubble Resort is an eco-friendly hidden gem in Watamu. You have to cross Mida Creek by boat to get there as it is not easily accessible by road. Also, because it is one year old since it started operations therefore not so many people are aware of this gem. However, we have social media for that and that was how I knew about it on Instagram. The Italian manager, Stefano, was so kind to accept my request for my Sunday morning booking as he offered to send me a boat to be picked from Short Beach. Short Beach is located just next to Kobe Resort before Garoda in Watamu. I was picked by boat at 11:00 a.m. on a sunny Sunday from Short Beach with two other guests, enjoying stunning crystal blue water views.

Approximately, the boat ride to the resort was 5 minutes from Short Beach. First thing I spotted was the striking Makuti Rock and Sea restaurant built on a high rock, hence the name. On arrival, Stefano was standing at the entrance looking sharp welcoming us with a warm friendly smile. We were offered hot wet hand towels each and served with a glass of passion juice as a courteous welcome drink.

Stefano ushered us into the exquisite  Rock and Sea restaurant with a 360 degrees panoramic view of the mida creek. Their menu is diverse offering Kenyan, Asian, Italian, Vegeterian, Vegan and Kids meals menu. The choice is yours! In addition, a sea excursions menu is offered.

Sitting at the perfect restaurant spot where I got a perfect sea view, I ordered a stoney (weirdly enough that’s my favorite soft drink) from their main menu and grilled lobster which was served with chips. The ambience is soothing with a background sound of slow music which made me feel sleepy after being stuffed by the delish meal. It put me on total relax mode.

After feeling so relaxed, I was ready for  a tour on the resort; “Save the best for the last.” Stefano took me round the resort showing me their bed bath tub made of wood derived from the African culture faced by a humongous Baobab tree. Hence called Baobab.

Rock and Sea Bubble Resort is an eco-friendly lodge that sustains natural environment by using products made from natural materials and sustainable focused initiatives to conserve nature.

For relaxation,  they offer hammocks, chilling spots,  massage therapy in their massage room with comfortable massage beds facing the sea. How revitalizing! They also have a pool table and fishing rods for when guests want to go for fishing games. Also, they have a grill for barbecues and a beautiful  swimming pool with a jacuzzi next to a fully equipped beach bar for those who like to get a little wasted. Down the beach bar is the beach connecting to the mida creek.

NB: Outside guests can have lunch at the resort, massages, sea excursions, and take a dip in their swimming pool & jacuzzi at a cost.

Then finally! The stunning Rock and Sea outdoor inflatable single tunnel bubble resort! Breathtaking!

What makes the resort unique and attractive is its bold creativity of revamping bubble tents into a resort. In addition to its sophisticated design, white makes it elegant and stand out in a heavenly manner. There are 3 bubble resorts each secluded perfectly located in an enclosed hideout covered by nature due to its transparency, for guests’ privacy.

Since it is white, Stefano kindly asked me to remove my shoes before going in as he also did. We left our shoes at the entrance as he ushered me into the tunnel bubble resort by opening the entrance curve door zipper without any hassle.

I was enamored by the interior design of the bubble resort. Well furnished with uniform subtle brown natural wood furniture. A small quirky table with two chairs perfect for 2 people to have morning tea and meals and a double bed with a night stand. You have your own toilet too and a bathroom sink and a cool outdoor shower. Actually, it can give you a realm of possibilities in designing the interior if you have an eye for interior design. I like how simple yet sophisticated the bubble resort is set up. Stefano reckons that the interior decor was created to suit the resort’s natural theme since they practice sustainable tourism.

If you’re wondering how spacious it is inside, the bubble resort does not discriminate tall people. Also, it can accommodate a small family of three. Amazingly, the Rock and Sea Bubble Resort’s transparency gives you the luxury of enjoying views of lush green nature since it is transparent.  “It’s like living in the inside out!” Exclaimed Stefano. I concur!

Initially, I have to admit that I was skeptical about ventilation because it was quite hot inside. However, there’s cross ventilation which offers optimal airflow and heat is distributed evenly because of its advanced system of air ventilation. The inside tarpaulin is made of high quality non toxic flame retardant PVC material which is weatherproof withstanding harsh sunlight on a hot day and the bubble resort feels structurally sturdy enough to withstand strong winds on a cold day.  Also, it literally keeps insects and bugs out especially at night when they’re on hunt mode.

Perfect for nature lovers to reconnect with nature and lovebirds to enjoy their personal space star gazing during romantic night time.

Incase you’re wondering, last time I checked, they charge Kshs. 26,000 per night for a double (2 people) bed and breakfast. Save up and treat yourself and your family/ lover/ friends to this beautiful bubble resort for your next vacation. Totally worth it Peaches!

With Love,

Peaches.

LIVE | LOVE | LAUGH!

Nestled in the forest and existing with wildlife, Watamu Treehouse in Watamu island has undoubtedly been one of my favorite places to visit in our beautiful Kenyan Coast. Just the perfect place to unwind, heal and connect with nature, away from toxins, junks and the hustle & bustle frenzy of the overcrowded city. Absolutely therapeutic! Perfect for beach bums, yogis, single traveling men & women, and romantic couples. Basically, anyone who loves nature, adventure, and a quiet peaceful environment.

How I found this heaven on earth, only God knows. Watamu Treehouse, like its name suggests, is built high in the trees decorated with natural wood, and a myriad of glass art. A hidden gem in Watamu surrounded by mangroves in the Mida Creek located on the Marine Park in Watamu on Turtle Bay road.

Watamu Treehouse Accommodation is quite  affordable. However, rooms are priced differently whereby the higher level rooms are more expensive ranging from Kshs. 13,500 – 28,500 as compared to the lower level rooms ranging from Kshs. 9,500 – 23,500.

My amazing short stay at Watamu Treehouse was  soul-satiating. I was so mesmerized and captured by the beauty and artistic architecture of the strategically built Tree house. So beautiful and unique. My eyes sparkled in amusement seeing the vertically erected snow-white tree house as the cab driver slowly drove closer to the entrance. Upon arrival, I was welcomed by an angelic face wearing a white shirt with a pink striped kikoi print on its finely folded arm and navy blue  trouser uniform. He introduced himself as Chipira, as he carried my hand luggage and lead me to the guest round table for a cold smoothie. Prior to the round table, is a stunning swimming pool on your left and right ahead, are stunning stained glass mosaic windows that stretch all the way up to the roof. Chipira then ushered me to my room; Moon & Stars.

Watamu Treehouse has two towers: North Tower and South Tower joined by a mosaic bridge each sharing a stunning pool. There’s a guest book that guests get the opportunity to share their experience with colorful bolt pens and cute boards for their updated activity schedules that you can’t miss. A fully equipped office and kitchen with friendly staff that successfully runs the place.

Sleek wood curvature flirtatiously shapes the staircases. The staircases, snow-white walls and caramel cemented floors are engraved with glass art that has so much fun colors and varieties of shapes; triangles, squares, circles, crescent moon, stars, leaves, flowers and aquamarine creatures that charmingly pops the place. The blend of natural wood cladding, glass and metal art creates an appealing exterior facade. Adding into the art work is a naturally built cobweb. I think you really need to be here to really understand the level of amusement I am in. Because I feel that there are no words that can give justice to this heaven on earth. If at all, infinity. Almost like I’m in a fairy tale.

Everything about this eco-friendly place is so natural from healthy nutritious meals and smoothies to their hand made thyme shower products.

The Food

Since Watamu Treehouse practice health and wellness, they serve nutritious meals mostly vegetarian and vegan meals including amazing coconut meals and scrumptious desserts.

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My favorite is pumpkin soup that goes so well with their pumpkin seeds and brown rice with spiced sautéed broccoli. Breakfast coconut pancake topped with honey and banana is also my favorite. As for drinks, they offer detox teas, coconut juice, and their famous smoothies. For some of the main meals like beetroot burgers, they are very much an acquired taste.

I enjoyed eating in their quirky dining tables and later relaxing in cushioned launches with a novel; serene!

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The Rooms

Once you cross over the mosaic North Tower bridge, are three stunning rooms: Baobab, Honeymoon and the highest of all being Star Bed.

Baobab is small and cute facing a baobab tree with a stunning view of Watamu’s gorgeous sunset.

Star Bed has a beautiful horizontal sea view and a refreshing open shower that has a direct sunrise view. Thanks to Paul Krystal, I had the luxury of staying in Moon & Stars and Star Bed.

Visit [Watamu Treehouse Instagram Page or Watamu Treehouse website to view all the room pictures and bookings]

The bathrooms are squeaky clean like every corner of Watamu Treehouse with either aesthetically pleasing mirrors or an open view of the outside with a natural breeze. Their natural handmade bath products are refreshing including natural thyme hand made body wash, hand wash, shampoo and conditioner. I would chill all day long in my kikoy bathrobe as it is so comfy you’d want to stay in them all day.

And an open hot shower with a sea view! It can’t get better than this! [View from Aqua Room]

I had the luxury of watching the sun rise every morning and sun sets every evening so effortlessly at Watamu Treehouse. Gentle beach waves, sea eagles, birds, and frog croaks were my morning alarm sounds. Moreover, the sun enhances Treehouse’s art with a stunning natural effect giving you a glimpse of heaven. What are filters? I mean.. look.at.that!

I could live here forever.😍 Wouldn’t you?

Yoga

Later in the evening, Paul invited me for a yoga session in the yoga room at 5:00 p.m. Watamu Treehouse mission foster healing, peace and tranquility with a devotion to spread positivity and good health hence yoga perfectly aligns with its mission. The spacious yoga room has a 360 degree panorama view of the Mida Creek.

A recycled flip flop art hanged in the yoga room. Amazing right? It was created by Paul’s daughter, Aja. Watamu Treehouse family are also conservationists as they have conservation activities like of the flip flop art, beach cleaning routines every Thursdays and more.

Stretching during yoga is not as easy as it looks. Yoga is intense almost like mini planks and meditation. I felt as light as a feather.

I did yoga at Treehouse. It was a new elevating and therapeutic experience.

Activities

Not only does Watamu Treehouse offer yoga as part of their recreational activities, but also offer massage therapy, snorkeling trips, eco-walks and nature expeditions on stand-up paddle-boards or kayaks depending on the tide. I had so much fun going for Stand Up Paddling and  floating in the mangrove forest. Floating activity involves floating at the Mida Creek in between mangroves on a low tide as the water current in the mangroves flows you effortlessly into the sea. It was totally relaxing.

Also, I got the opportunity to learn how to use a stand up paddle which makes Watamu Treehouse forever stuck in my memory.

The Pool

The stunning swimming pool at Watamu Treehouse has a cute artificial waterfall spring, a swinging bed and hammock chair. The yin-yang is centrally curved beautifully to symbolize positive energy and hope. Chilling with a good book & smoothie and swimming by the swimming pool gets you on full relaxation mode.

The Beach

A 3minute walk to the beach through the narrow sandy beach path leads you to the clean white pristine beach and clear crystal blue water that make such stunning waves. Very safe to walk on as it is secure away from Beach Boys. The flag to Treehouse guides you for direction from the beach. Blue symbolizes the sky, green the mangroves n white the sand.

Life Lesson: Ensure that everything you do or create in life has essence and meaning to it.

Enjoy Watamu Treehouse! Detoxify and Recharge! Cheers!

Until next time Peaches!

LIVE|LOVE|LAUGH! 💃🏽