Love, Laughter, and a Valentine’s Picnic in the Wild

As a Valentine’s Chef in Nairobi, I’ve had the honor of being a part of countless romantic moments. But some stories resonate deeper than others, reminding me why I fell in love with food. For me as a chef, it’s not just about cooking and serving, it’s about helping add to those moments in other peoples’ lives, crafting experiences, and adding a touch of magic to life’s most precious moments.

Six years prior to the Valentine’s picnic I catered, Sarah, an American brimming with curiosity, arrived in Nairobi for a global conference. There, she met Gitau, a Kenyan with eyes that held the warmth of the African sun. Their connection was instant, a spark ignited amidst the hustle of the conference. They spent days discussing everything, sharing dreams, and discovering a shared love for adventure. They explored local markets, hiked trails in Karura Forest, and laughed over countless cups of Kenyan tea.

But their love story wasn’t a simple one. Long-distance relationships are never easy, and theirs stretched across continents. For three long years, they only knew each other through screens, battling time zones and longing for physical presence. Sarah faced on pressure from her family back home, whispers urging her to choose a “more suitable” partner. Gitau, meanwhile, navigated the labyrinthine process of visa applications, each rejection a blow to his hope. He poured his energy into his work as a wildlife conservationist, finding solace in the vast plains and majestic creatures of his homeland.

Just as the stars seemed to align, with Sarah finally booking her flight to Kenya to tie the knot, the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Borders closed, flights were grounded, and their dream wedding was put on indefinite hold. It was a cruel twist of fate, a test of their resilience. They learned to lean on each other, finding strength in virtual dates and shared dreams of a future when they could finally be together.

But love, as it often does, found a way. They persisted, their bond strengthened by adversity. Sarah’s parents, witnessing their unwavering commitment, finally softened. The wedding date was set, a celebration planned in the breathtaking landscapes of Nanyuki, with friends and family flying in from across the globe.

And so, on that Valentine’s Day, they decided to celebrate their journey with an intimate picnic in the Nairobi National Park. The blanket was spread beneath the acacia trees, the sounds of the African bush their symphony, and the air filled with the aroma of gourmet delights. I crafted a menu that reflected their story – a fusion of Kenyan and American flavors, a culinary representation of their blended lives. There was succulent grilled steak with sukuma wiki, mini samosas filled with spiced potatoes, and fresh tropical fruit skewers drizzled with honey. Every bite was a celebration of their resilience, their love, and their triumph over distance and adversity. I remember Gitau whispering something in Kikuyu to Sarah, which she didnt understand but she just laughed then kissed him.

As I watched them laugh, share stories, and steal glances at each other, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. It was more than just a job; it was an honor to witness and contribute to their happiness. This Valentine’s Day, they weren’t just celebrating love, but a victory against all odds. The way their eyes lit up while they toasted to their future reminded me that sometimes, all you need is good food, good company, and a beautiful setting to create a memory that will last a lifetime.

That picnic was some years ago. Now it’s Valentine’s once again, and you’re thinking of ways to mark the special moment this year, how about taking a leaf out of their book? Instead of the usual restaurant date, picture a romantic setting with a personalized culinary experience designed just for you and your loved one. A Tasted Cuisine is here to help turn that dream into a reality. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or an adventurous picnic under the stars, why not allow me – Chef Jonathan – to create a delicious and unforgettable experience? Let’s talk and see how we can help you craft your own perfect Valentine’s Day story.