My first time experience at a Keg joint
A mug of Keg Beer
Last weekend, a friend's invite led me to one of those legendary keg joints that look like they were designed to test both eyesight and patience.
First of all, what is it with being dingy? Does it make the place have a better experience? The joint was dimly lit, and the seats looked like they had lived several lives before me. In fact, judging by how worn out they were, I’m convinced some of them have seen breakups, business deals, and maybe even county politics.
However, this place was never about luxury. Some patrons were so comfortable that they had mastered the art of sleeping while seated, heads hanging sideways as if it was all part of the experience.
Still, what truly caught my attention was how revelers casually left their phones on the table. No fear, no checking pockets every two minutes.
Inside a Keg Joint
I will tell you for free, those 'Ni God’ deals are happening there. You’d see two people talking seriously, then one would step out “to make a call,” and minutes later, the bill would be sorted.
Meanwhile, the music situation deserved its own award. The very loud playlist came straight from the attendant’s phone, which was rudely interrupted every time she received a call. Yet surprisingly, nobody complained.
Maybe that’s the beauty of such places, you accept everything as it comes. And if the song slapped, people simply stood up and danced, no permission needed.
Interestingly, there were only two ladies in the entire joint: me and the attendant. The tables weren’t crowded with mzingas either; instead, it was quarters everywhere. I was shocked by how some people downed keg in one sitting like it was water.
Still, the hip-hop playlist was fire, and combined with live football on the screen, the vibe was undeniable.
“These joints are about community,” says regular reveller Ben Kimani. “Everyone knows everyone, drinks are cheap because ni keg mostly inauzwa, and as long as there’s football, hakuna stress.”
Kimani notes that, most of these joints are tucked deep in neighbourhoods, making them oddly safe.
"Saturdays are peak days, and going with your girlfriend is extremely rare, plus aje sasa? There’s no ambience, yet somehow, it all works," he says