Ombachi’s Big Plan for a Record-Breaking Food Festival
Kenyan food enthusiasts are in for an exciting treat as Dennis Ombachi, the renowned self-made chef and former rugby star, gears up to host the country’s biggest food festival. Known for his famous catchphrase, “Not for the gram,” Ombachi is taking his culinary passion to the next level, ensuring that this event will be one for the books.
Ombachi, who transitioned from rugby to the world of gastronomy, has set a bold target for himself. In a recent social media post, he declared his ambitious vision:
“I might just single-handedly pull off the biggest food festival in the 254.”
He further encouraged himself, saying:
“If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough, or whatever they say. And my festival food is free of charge. Only a few days to make history.”
With a promise of free food and an experience like no other, Ombachi’s festival is already gaining traction, and many are eagerly awaiting further details.
Kenya’s Growing Love for Food Festivals
Food festivals have become a major attraction in Kenya, especially in Nairobi, where food lovers gather to experience new flavors, cultural cuisines, and top-tier entertainment.
One of the most successful events in recent months was the Nairobi Street Food Festival, held at the ASK Showgrounds on March 8, 2025. Thousands of attendees documented the experience online, sharing their excitement about the diverse food stalls, vibrant music, and energetic performances. The festival sold out completely, leading organizers to announce the next edition for June 7, 2025.
With such growing enthusiasm for food events, Ombachi’s dream of hosting Kenya’s largest food festival is well-timed. The chef-turned-content creator has built a dedicated following with his unique cooking techniques, charismatic personality, and unwavering passion for food.
Ombachi’s Journey from Rugby to Culinary Fame
Dennis Ombachi is no stranger to discipline and determination. As a former Kenya Sevens rugby star, he played on the global stage before an injury shifted his career path. What started as a hobby—cooking and sharing recipes—soon turned into a full-time passion that captured audiences worldwide.
His online content, featuring quick and engaging cooking tutorials, became a viral sensation. With his distinctive style of tossing ingredients onto the stove and adding humor to his videos, he quickly amassed a massive following. His ability to blend culinary creativity with entertainment has earned him international recognition, with fans across Africa and beyond.
Ombachi has headlined food festivals in various countries, including Zambia, China, and Tanzania. His most recent participation at the Coke Food Fest in Tanzania saw him preparing meals for thousands, an experience he described as “amazing” and one that allowed him to “make lots of new friends.” However, he has always wanted to bring this experience home to Kenya.
What to Expect at Ombachi’s Food Festival
Unlike typical food festivals where attendees purchase food, Ombachi’s event will stand out for one major reason—it will be completely free. His decision to offer free meals is his way of giving back to his supporters, who have followed his journey from rugby to culinary stardom.
In a passionate Instagram post, he detailed his vision:
“I was saving the best for home 🇰🇪. It’s been a long time coming, and food will be free as my way of saying thank you for the support you’ve given me over the years. I will cook for 1,000+ supporters, preparing meals that will be a first-time experience for many.”
He also emphasized that the festival will be family-friendly, with menu options suitable for children. This inclusivity ensures that families can enjoy the event together without worrying about food restrictions.
Though the exact location and date remain undisclosed, Ombachi reassured fans that details would be announced soon. He also extended an open invitation to brands like Coca-Cola Kenya and CCBA in Kenya to partner in making this dream a reality.
Nairobi’s Evolving Food Culture
Kenya’s food scene has seen a remarkable transformation in recent years. Traditional dishes have gained modern twists, international cuisines have been embraced, and pop-up food events have become a staple in Nairobi’s social scene.
Several factors have contributed to this growth, including:
- Social Media Influence: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have played a huge role in popularizing food culture, with chefs like Ombachi leading the way.
- Diverse Culinary Offerings: Kenyan chefs and food entrepreneurs have expanded their menus, introducing more global flavors to local audiences.
- Increased Food Tourism: More people are traveling locally and internationally to experience different cuisines, fueling the demand for unique food events.
Ombachi’s food festival aligns perfectly with this evolution, offering an opportunity for Kenyans to indulge in a world-class culinary experience.
The Anticipation Builds
The buzz surrounding Ombachi’s food festival is undeniable. Social media platforms are flooded with excitement as fans express their eagerness to attend. Many have already started making predictions about what dishes will be featured, with some hoping to taste Ombachi’s signature meals, such as his famous steak, seafood platters, and unique Kenyan fusion dishes.
Additionally, the festival presents an opportunity for food brands, beverage companies, and hospitality businesses to engage with a passionate food-loving audience. Whether through sponsorship, product showcases, or collaborations, many industry players are expected to jump on board to make the event a resounding success.
Ombachi’s Call to Action
As preparations enter the final stages, Ombachi has one key message for his supporters—stay tuned. He assured fans that he will share event details soon, urging them not to miss this historic occasion.
In his closing remarks, he wrote:
“DATE & LOCATION TO FOLLOW. DON’T MISS OUT!!”
For now, Kenyans wait eagerly, knowing that Ombachi’s dream of pulling off the biggest food festival in Kenya is just around the corner.
