Chess Cafe Kigali

KN 76 St, Kigali, Rwanda
+250 784 734 365
$$$ Cafeteria
(82 Reviews)

If you're meandering through the vibrant streets of Kigali, a charming gem awaits you at Chess Cafe Kigali, located on KN 76 St, just behind the city hall in the car-free zone. This delightful cafeteria is not merely a place to grab a bite or sip on quality coffee; it’s a community hub thriving on camaraderie, chess strategies, and delectable bites. With a phone number of +250 784 734 365, don’t hesitate to call ahead on busy days!

As you step into this cozy establishment, the warmth of both the atmosphere and the welcoming staff encapsulates you instantly. It’s a friendly space perfect for both chess enthusiasts and casual diners alike. The delightful aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods wafting through the air sets the stage for a relaxing experience, whether you're here to fuel up before a game or to simply enjoy a chat with friends.

Chess Cafe is celebrated for its inviting ambiance and, more importantly, its sincerely curated menu. Imagining enjoying a rich, dark roast coffee while savoring one of their stellar Swedish delicacies, the Chokladboll, or indulging in a gooey chocolate fudge brownie topped with a dollop of whipped cream, brings sheer delight. Many patrons rave about their homemade soups and sandwiches, crafted with tender care and served on fresh, home-baked bread that truly stands out as “the best bread in Kigali.” Lindy Nzengou exclaims it’s “seriously THE best soups and sandwiches” she’s found, and for good reason – the flavors are bright and satisfying, all at remarkably affordable prices.

Moreover, their variety of fresh juices and smoothies have captivated many visitors, as noted by Nathalie H, who found herself returning every day for those heavenly creations. The atmosphere might be a bit laid-back at times, but the stellar offerings and committed service make every moment worthwhile.

Several reviews also highlight the conscientious and friendly owners of the cafe, who embody Rwanda’s spirit of hospitality. Customer Sam Blohowiak emphasized their dedication to providing high-quality food and drink, contributing to the cafe's charm. It’s this combination of delicious food, freshly brewed coffee, and the unique chess culture that makes Chess Cafe a must-visit destination in Kigali.

So whether you’re a chess aficionado looking to find new challengers, a food lover in search of quality comfort food, or simply someone looking for a cozy corner to relax, Chess Cafe Kigali warmly invites you to sit down, enjoy your meal, and maybe even set up a chessboard for an engaging match. Get ready to experience food and coffee that will not only satisfy your cravings but also create lasting memories in the heart of Kigali.

Service options
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Payments
Credit cards
NFC mobile payments
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 10:00 PM

82 Reviews
Kimani Thompson

20 Sep 2025

Great Coffee with Phenominal service Also a good place to find chess players

Arjun Mohandas

08 Sep 2025

Chess Café is a lovely joint located just behind the Kigali city Hall in the car free zone. I love their swedish delicacy : Chokladboll and their gooey chocolate fudge brownie with whipped cream. Reasonably good coffee and moderately good pain au chocolat. They have very friendly staff too ! ● For detailed reviews of food in Kigali, checkout deliciouskigali on Instagram and Facebook●

Lindy Nzengou

22 Aug 2025

Seriously THE best soups and sandwiches, on homebaked bread, there is to find. And the fresh juices - heavenly! Also really good coffee. On top of that to very affordable prices. An absolute must when in Kigali!

Sam Blohowiak

07 Aug 2025

The best bread I have found in Kigali. It is perfect soup and sandwich bread, softy and yeasty, with a perfectly gently hardened crust. The place isn’t perfect yet but they three young Rawandan owners are diligent and conscientious owner operators. Their product is, i would call it high end quality drink and food , within a good and perfectly pleasant cafe. I will definitely visit them each time I am I Kigali and can’t wait to see them grow, expand, and perfect their business. ALSO! If you like chess or other board games and lack an opponent, the staff owners are ready to play a competitive game with you. Thanks Eric for a great match.

Nathalie H

09 Jul 2025

Very cute cafe and nice service, a little slow but worth the wait. Highly recommend all the juices and smoothies, they’re delicious! We went there almost every day during our stay in Kigali and managed to develop a smoothie and chess addiction in just a few days.

Rodrigo Butta

26 Jun 2025

Very nice place, coffee and smoothies. Very friendly people and nothing fancy, love it!!

P

14 Jun 2025

A really cute cafe with excellent coffee. If you are looking for great lattes and cappuccinos this place is for you! They also have actual chess boards so you can play while you wait!

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