Swahili's Story
The journey of Swahili Village began with founder Kevin Onyona's vision of bringing the bold and vibrant flavors of East Africa to the American fine dining scene. Now, two decades later, Swahili Village continues to serve as a Gateway to Culture, sharing the rich culinary heritage of East Africa with an ever-growing audience.
Founder, Kevin Onyona is a multi-award-winning executive chef, entrepreneur, and philanthropist residing in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. As the founder and owner of the top-rated hospitality group Swahili Village, Kevin, alongside his wife Lynn, built a culinary empire that has grown over the past 20 years to showcase the authenticity of African culture, particularly Kenyan cuisine, to a global audience. The Onyona's are also the founders of the Kevin and Lynn Onyona Foundation.
What began as a small family venture has evolved into a thriving business spanning multiple locations and earning accolades for its bold and flavorful representation of East African cuisine. Swahili Village restaurants are renowned for offering traditional Kenyan dishes like Nyama Choma, Ugali, Sukuma Wiki, Mokimo, among others, which bring the rich, vibrant tastes of Africa to the U.S. market. Kevin's goal has always been clear: "African culture is often misinterpreted globally. Given this, we decided to showcase the richness of our heritage—through cuisine, art, and music in each of our locations."
Kevin Onyona's entrepreneurial journey reflects not only his passion for sharing the flavors of Africa but also his dedication to philanthropy and cultural exchange. His success has made Swahili Village a symbol of authentic African hospitality in the U.S., a testament to his vision of bridging cultures through food and creating lasting connections across continents. We are about food diplomacy. Our aspiration is to make each person that walks through our doors to feel at home away from home. From humble beginnings to a thriving restaurant brand spanning three states, the Swahili story continues to inspire, showing what's possible when passion, persistence, and purpose align.
Our Philosophy
With its multiple-concept approach, Swahili’s appeals to customers of all ages, backgrounds, income brackets and interests. The Company seeks to set industry standards, not follow them.
Swahili’s locates its restaurants close to major retail, convention, entertainment and business centers, as well as at historical and waterfront sites.
The Swahili’s culture motivates employees to achieve their full potential. They’re challenged to improve through leadership, focus, intensity and persistence — and to create a work environment of pride, honesty, integrity and loyalty. Innovative training programs designed to strengthen the Company’s management foundation also encourage employees toward career growth.
Fertitta believes in a hands-on approach focused on service, quality and profitability. Swahili’s staff is a winning team committed to high standards, which they achieve through good organization and communication.Everyone here embraces a clearly understood goal: to exceed expectations.