I am one of those people who loves supporting startups, especially if they have quality products. It is, therefore, not by chance that I have gone several times to J’s Burgers and Ribs located in Lavington. It was all very intentional.

Located in a new stalls market that is off James Gichuru opposite Lavington Mall, J’s serves halal food and fresh juices. There are no alcoholic cocktails in sight. I open with that because I know how Kenyans are attached to their alcohol.

The space has graphic drawings of large burgers on its walls, with lights housed in beautiful black cages hanging from the ceiling to brighten it up.

In the early mornings, it is normally quiet, while music starts playing in the afternoon, growing in intensity with every passing hour. They have a show kitchen, so diners can watch as their food is being served. At the moment, they have a selection of burgers, ribs, wings, lamb chops and fries to choose from.

One can get a beef burger, a chicken burger or a bhaji burger – a burger with a vegetable patty made from assorted grated root vegetables and paneer cheese. I have tried their classic cheese burger with onion rings. Though the patty was not as well-done as I would have liked, the rocket leaves and cucumber pickles were fresh and sumptuous. The onion rings were the best I have had in a while.

If one does not like burgers, order plain chips, chilli chips or loaded fries as a standalone meal. You can also go for chicken wings or lamb chops. Their portions are large and prices fair.

The space may be small, but it has a great aesthetic. I will definitely be back for the lamb chops. The service is solicitous, checking in on you frequently. They ask for feedback, but seem unable to handle constructive criticism; if a client says their burger was medium rare instead of well-done, hostile silence is not the correct response. But they are just a month old, so maybe with time, the staff will readily volley back an apology next time. Or at least ask how someone likes their patty to begin with.