From Only In Your State : January 5, 2019
If you’re looking to try new cuisine, this Afro-Caribbean restaurant in Santa Fe needs to be your first choice. With exotic flavors and homestyle food from Africa, this restaurant has truly made a name for itself. After winning numerous awards, the Santa Fe spot was even able to open up a second location. Once you try the explosion of flavors at this unique spot, you’ll see why it’s gained so much recognition.
Welcome to Jambo Cafe! This African-Carribbean fusion restaurant in Santa Fe has become a highly ranked spot for dining in New Mexico.This incredible cafe has been featured on the Food Network and has been seen on the popular show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. The Santa Fe Reporter has also named this restaurant “Best International Cuisine” for eight years so far.
Speaking of the best, Chef and Owner Ahmed Obo has been named “Best Chef” for four years in a row. The popularity of Jambo Cafe goes to the amazing food Chef Ahmed Obo has created; he’s gained a whole following of consumers that love his food.
The dishes at Jambo Cafe are inspired by the Chef’s roots in Lamu, which is an island right off of Kenya. You’ll taste a mixture of flavors from traditional African dishes as well as a Caribbean twist on things.
Whatever you do, you must try the soup. Jambo Cafe has won Best Soup at the Souper Bowl year after year, and these flavorful soups have just the right amount of spice.
Other favorites are the jerk chicken, curries, and beef kabobs. Many dishes are served with fried plantains or roti for a fulfilling meal.
Jambo Cafe has also opened a food truck called Jambo Hapa. Hapa is the Swahili word for “here,” and this truck pops up at many events throughout Taos, Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Don’t forget to try the truck’s tongue sandwich.Jambo Cafe’s success has even led them to opening a second location in Albuquerque, complete with an in-house craft shop called Jambo Imports for goods from Africa.
At Jambo Imports, you’ll also be able to find Chef Ahmed Obo’s cookbook that shares his inspiration while moving from Africa to America.
For the right balance of spice in flavorful dishes, this award-winning Afro-Caribbean restaurant is a must-try, and soon.
Jambo Cafe is located at 2010 Cerrillos Rd., Santa Fe, NM and 1105 Juan Tabo NE, Albuquerque, NM.
To learn more about the menu, hours, and catering options, you can visit Jambo Cafe’s website right here. To reserve a table, please call (505) 473-1269.
Have you ever experienced a meal from Chef Ahmed Obo? What was it like? We’d love to hear all about your dining experience in the comments.
If you’re looking for another new dining experience, check out this funky small town restaurant in Northern New Mexico.