Reviews

Mixed Feelings – Great Food, but a Serious Security & Staff Issue Torino Bar has a cool atmosphere and, unfortunately, one of the most frustrating experiences we had during our stay. On our second night, at the entrance of Torino Bar, I was refused access by a female security staff member because I was carrying a small Insta360 camera. Although, I suggest to simply put it in my bag and that everyone inside already has cameras on their phones, she and her colleagues still denied entry. The decision made absolutely no sense and felt unnecessarily rigid and unfriendly. While walking back to the car and reporting the incident to my partner, I was distracted and upset — and that’s when a boda boda rider passed by and snatched my phone. I screamed, and several security guards appeared quickly, but by then it was too late. The police later even mentioned that it may have been a setup, which is extremely concerning for a place that is supposed to be secure. Two days later, we returned with police officers who were investigating the theft. That was when we were finally able to experience the food and service. To be fair: the food was very good. We tried goat, fish, and rabbit, and the rabbit was excellent, though all dishes were nicely prepared. The waitress was competent and attentive, and the South African red wine she recommended was surprisingly good. It’s not Italian or French wine quality, but for Uganda/Africa, it was a pleasant surprise. Still, I’m giving a low rating because the entire theft and the subsequent hacking of my accounts could likely have been avoided if the entrance security had acted reasonably and professionally. The contradiction of banning a small camera while allowing millions of smartphones with cameras inside is hard to justify. If a bribe was expected, I didn’t understand it — and even if I had, I would not have paid!!! Good food and ambiance cannot fully compensate for poor judgment, unfriendly staff behavior, and a serious safety incident.

2.0 out of 5

Friday night vibe is a bit lame, the dj plays anything and tried to go for crowd pleasers which killed the vibe. Think they need to pick a theme and turn the volume a little down so we are not all shouting like it’s a market. Service and food are great

2.0 out of 5

Last night in Kampala, I found myself at Torino—and honestly, it’s the kind of place you stroll into “just to try it” and then end up staying way longer than planned. First thing you notice is the ambience. It’s warm, relaxed, and effortlessly put together—the sort of setting that makes you sink into your seat and start acting like you’ve got nowhere else to be. And the music? Chef’s kiss. Good tracks, good mood, and (thankfully) at the right volume. Loud enough to feel the vibe, soft enough to keep your conversation flowing without turning dinner into a debate competition. Now, let’s talk about the food—because Torino doesn’t do stingy portions. The plates come out generous and inviting, the kind that make you pause for a second like, “Okay… they’re not playing.” Everything tastes hearty and satisfying, and if you’re craving that comforting semblance of Ugandan food—those familiar, grounding flavors that feel like home—this spot absolutely hits the mark. If you’re in Kampala and you want a place that feels good, sounds good, and feeds you properly, Torino is a solid yes. Come hungry, come chilled, and give yourself time—you’ll want to linger.

5.0 out of 5

Loved loved the place , the food was delicious and the waiter really called for us and keep asking us if we needed any thing.... definitely going back soon

5.0 out of 5

I was there on a Thursday. Nice hangout with Janzi Live band from 8pm, but it was quite crowded. So the waiters and waitresses were also over occupied. But maybe it's just the day. Also, it's a hangout for Govt officials 😎

4.0 out of 5