Kismayo Kitchen

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4.9

African

Closed See Hours

505 Riverside Ave., Burlington, VT 05401, United States +1 8024-483-0320

Established in 2019 in Burlington, Vermont, Kismayo Kitchen has been reopened by the family of its cherished owner, Ahmed Omar. Known as "Omar," he created the restaurant as a tribute to his journey as a Somali refugee. With its multicultural menu, Kismayo Kitchen became a community hub, reflecting Omar's compassion and warmth. Tragically, Omar passed away at 36 in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of kindness. Despite his absence, his family continues to run the restaurant, preserving his vision. Kismayo Kitchen stands as a tribute to Omar's mother, a chef in Somalia, and his pursuit of the American dream. As the youngest of 14 children, Omar's journey from Somalia to Vermont was marked by resilience. Today, Kismayo Kitchen reopens, guided by Omar's spirit. It remains a place of connection, where patrons can enjoy delicious food and share stories. Though Omar is gone, his legacy lives on through the hospitality of Kismayo Kitchen.

Reviews

4.9/5

Sarah carney

July 15, 2024

Amazing food and courteous staff. This is my 2nd time going to this restaurant. And food is delicious as expected, I was in Burlington, I believe in 2021 and met the owner Umar, such a gem of a gentleman. I found out on this trip that he passed away. Beautiful soul and great chef.

Sherry schumacher

July 15, 2024

The food here is absolutely delicious and the staff are incredibly kind and generous. While we were eating lunch I heard 3 people come in to pick up their takeout order and the staff knew them by name and chatted with them like old friends. This is a true neighborhood spot - if you're in Burlington, make it a point to stop here.

Nancy arstein

July 15, 2024

Kismayo looks unassuming from the outside but it is well worth a stop. They serve a small, simple menu. I ordered the coconut chicken stew, somosas, and a delicious sweet cardamom tea. The stew was flavorful but delicate, with really nicely seasoned, perfectly cooked rice. The samosas were perfectly shaped with fresh tasting ingredients and a subtle heat. The food is clearly made to a high standard and with love. The ladies that run the place also seem to want to create a polite and friendly atmosphere. I'll be coming back.

Lisa hummer

July 15, 2024

I have been coming here since they opened. The food is delicious with so much depth of flavour- satisfying without being heavy. I go here whenever I need a feel-good, pick-me-up meal. The staff is always welcoming and friendly, and the small menu means that every dish they offer has been perfected. I highly recommend the cheese steak, the rice and beef dish, and the tea. So grateful for what Kismayo brings to the local food scene!

Myke padovono

July 15, 2024

I wish we would have came here sooner! We've been eyeballing this place for a couple years and stopping by never worked out until today. So thankful that we did! Hands down the best samosas ever! So light! We also had the chicken dish and coconut curry. Amazing all around with such warm and welcoming staff members. Will definitely be here again!

Dennis chung

July 15, 2024

The menu is limited, but the food tastes so good!! I had chicken & rice, which is amazing. They cooked the rice just perfectly. I had beef samosa, which is also delectable. The guy who served me food gave me tea for free. Thank you. The tea tastes like sweetened chai. The place looks humble, but the service is really good.

Phyllis wrubel

July 15, 2024

Small, family run restaurant. Easy to drive right past it if you’re not on the lookout.The cafe area is tidy, bright, and welcoming. The owner was absolutely lovely. We ordered the chicken and Somali rice plate. The flavors were tremendous. Everything was freshly prepared, hot, and tasty. While my husband and I sat enjoying our shared lunch, the owner approached us with a Somali tea and a beef Somosa. She said “I just want you to try it”. Wow, everything was delicious. We will definitely be back. Try the somosas & the tea. The service was excellent. Give this place a try.

Zhi lin

July 15, 2024

Food was really good here. I had the chicken and rice. It was very tasty and did not leave me feeling heavy. I appreciated the kind service as they made me feel very welcomed. I definitely recommend coming here again! My friend who is also a vegetarian enjoyed his coconut stew and rice. This place deserves all the praise!

Kelly steffes

July 15, 2024

The food and the service at Kismayo are always amazing. If you haven’t had the chicken wrap or the Philly you are missing out but it’s honestly impossible to get it wrong with anything on the menu!

Roger trerice

July 15, 2024

Delicious food, thoughtful service, excellent atmosphere. Proprietors are caring and attend to all details. Highly recommend for eat in or take out! Vegetarian options available. Try the Somali tea!

Location

Hours

Monday Close
Tuesday Close
Wednesday
00:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Thursday
00:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Friday
02:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Saturday
00:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Sunday
00:00 AM - 07:00 PM

Vibrant Photos

Photos taken at the restaurant showcase the vibrant atmosphere and culinary delights of Kismayo Kitchen. Each image captures the essence of the establishment, from the welcoming ambiance to the diverse menu offerings. These photos offer a glimpse into the legacy of Kismayo Kitchen and its beloved owner, Ahmed Omar. Through these images, viewers can experience the warmth and hospitality that defined Omar's vision for the restaurant. From the colorful dishes to the smiling faces of patrons, the photos convey the sense of community that Kismayo Kitchen fosters. Whether it's a snapshot of a bustling dining room or a close-up of a signature dish, each photo tells a story of connection and shared experiences. As Kismayo Kitchen reopens its doors, these photos serve as a reminder of the enduring spirit of this beloved establishment.

Exquisite Menu Offerings

Embark on a culinary journey like no other at Kismayo Kitchen, where each dish stands as a masterpiece meticulously crafted to tantalize taste buds and evoke cravings for more. The menu showcases an array of mouthwatering delights, each thoughtfully curated to highlight the finest ingredients and flavors sourced from around the world.

Kismayo Philly Cheesesteak

A standout offering is the Kismayo Philly Cheesesteak, a symphony of flavors featuring tender shaved beef, perfectly sautéed onions, crisp green peppers, and a drizzle of the secret Kismayo sauce, all nestled between a soft, freshly baked roll and topped with gooey American cheese. Every bite promises a savory sensation that transports diners to culinary bliss.

Gyro Sandwich

For those seeking lighter fare, the Gyro Sandwich is sure to satisfy. Options include succulent chicken, flavorful beef, or a delightful medley of vegetables, expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection. Paired with sautéed onions and peppers, the signature Kismayo sauce, and a crisp bed of lettuce and ripe tomatoes, this sandwich offers a flavor explosion in every bite. Vegetarian guests need not fret – the Gyro Sandwich can be customized to suit dietary preferences without compromising on taste or satisfaction.

Kismayo Chicken Wrap

But the culinary adventure doesn't end there. The Kismayo Chicken Wrap is a true delight, combining juicy chicken thigh with the savory goodness of sautéed onions and peppers, fragrant Kismayo rice, and a medley of fresh lettuce and tomatoes, all encased in a warm tortilla. Whether a meat lover or vegetarian, this wrap is sure to please even the most discerning palate.

Various Payment Options Available

Credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments are accepted at Kismayo Kitchen. With these options, customers can conveniently settle their bills using their preferred method. Whether it's swiping a card or tapping a smartphone, the restaurant ensures a seamless payment experience for patrons. These payment options cater to diverse preferences, allowing guests to choose the most convenient way to transact. From traditional card payments to the latest in mobile technology, Kismayo Kitchen accommodates a range of payment methods to enhance customer satisfaction.

Varied Dining Services Offered

At Kismayo Kitchen, a comprehensive range of services is available to meet the diverse needs and preferences of valued customers. From the convenience of Kerbside pickup to the ease of delivery, the flexibility of takeaway, and the comfort of dine-in options, every dining experience is tailored to suit individual requirements.

For those on the go or seeking a quick and convenient way to enjoy delicious offerings, the Kerbside pickup service provides the perfect solution. Orders can be placed ahead of time, and upon arrival at the designated pickup area, friendly staff will bring orders directly to customers' cars, allowing them to enjoy their meals without ever leaving the comfort of their vehicles.

Flexible Delivery Services

Delivery services are facilitated by Kismayo Kitchen through platforms such as Postmates, Try Caviar, Doordash, and Uber Eats. Through these trusted partners, customers can enjoy the convenience of having their favorite dishes from Kismayo Kitchen delivered directly to their doorstep. Whether craving a hearty meal for dinner or seeking to satisfy hunger with a quick bite, delivery options ensure that customers can enjoy delicious offerings wherever they are.