
Melissa Mpofu recently in Victoria Falls
LOCAL music has become the signature tone for recently opened ZimCafé International Pub and Grill in Victoria Falls.
The pub, which was officially opened two weeks ago by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Walter Mzembi, has turned out to be the hook and bait for revellers who can relate to the music and an exciting fusion mix for tourists looking to enjoy the night life in the resort town.
Located underground at Zambezi Centre in the resort’s Central Business District, ZimCafé International Pub and Grill offers the best of both worlds – an opulent dining experience and an A-list party.
Situated within walking distance of many restaurants and various accommodation facilities, the spot has a capacity of 350 and an outdoor space as an option for those who like to take in the scenery.
The night life in Victoria Falls was otherwise dead with revellers having to rely on run down spots, but now people can look forward to going out and experiencing a fresh environment.
“ZimCafe is the place to be right now. The DJ from Harare plays different types of music which is good as I love my music, especially local. My friends often have to drag me out of the club because leaving is hard,” said Tafadzwa Muzvidzwa, a socialite in the resort town.
Clearly adept on the one and two’s, the pub’s resident DJ Dee Blaze, has seemingly managed to capture the hearts of party lovers based in Victoria Falls and has no problems winning the hearts of visitors.
He has taken advantage of recent calls by Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Minister Professor Jonathan Moyo to promote local music by including it on his set. While most local DJs only play Zim dancehall, he fuses urban grooves and afro-jazz so well with international music. It makes it hard for one to leave the dance floor where hit after hit are dropped till the early morning.
ZimCafe International Pub and Grill director Isaac Neshamba said they took DJ Dee Blaze on board from prime spots in Harare to liven up the Vic Falls bar with his vast expertise. He has played at Pariah and the now defunct Stars Studio.
Initially meant to attract mature crowds, patronage has grown among the more youthful end of the market, who are actually livening up the place.
Neshamba said the joint is not only a nightclub as they also serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.
“We want ZimCafe to become the ultimate meeting facility in Victoria Falls. People can have their meetings over coffee, latte or tea. The venue is generally quiet during the day since its underground and away from the bustling streets, making it convenient for meetings” said Neshamba.
The menu comprises of traditional and western cuisine including road runner, guinea fowl, goat, beef stew, rump steak, T-bone steak, pork chop, country style sausage and light meals such as sandwiches and salads.
Meals are available 24 hours a day and range from $5 to $18. ZimCafe Victoria Falls becomes the second outlet in Zimbabwe after the Harare one with plans underway to open more branches across the country before the brand goes regional.
Neshamba said ZimCafe seeks to promote AfroJazz as well as local music and will be hosting the Rusike Brothers over the Easter holiday. They will perform alongside the Huggies Entertainment Stable led by DJs Kudzie Marudza and Dexter Dee.



