Lunch at Asian Kitchen: A Warm Welcome Back

Today my wife and I went out for lunch at Asian Kitchen here in Kigali, one of our favorite comfort spots in the city. The restaurant is run by a wonderful Japanese couple who have become dear friends of ours since we moved here. They had just returned from a trip back home to Japan, and this was our first chance to see them since they got back.

Walking into the restaurant felt extra special today, almost like reconnecting with family after a long time apart. We exchanged happy greetings, and they immediately shared stories from their visit: time with relatives, familiar flavors they missed, and the joyful chaos of being back in Japan, even briefly. There was a warm energy in the air that you only get when people bring back a little piece of “home” with them.

Before their trip, my wife had asked if they could pick up a few items for us, small things we often miss from Japan but can’t easily find in Rwanda. They kindly agreed, and today they handed us the goodies they brought back. It was such a generous gesture, and honestly, it meant more than just receiving the items themselves. It was the feeling of being looked after, of community, of a shared understanding between people living far away from their home countries.

Lunch, as always, was delicious, comforting dishes full of the flavors we love. But the best part wasn’t just the food. It was the connection, the thoughtful exchange, and the reminder that even thousands of miles from “home,” you can find moments that feel like it.

Huge appreciation to our friends at Asian Kitchen. Their kindness always makes Kigali feel a little warmer, and today was no exception.