CJ’s flavourful zesty fish fiesta

At first glance, Café Javas’ chipotle fish bowl offers quite the visual treat, beautifully matched by its satisfying taste.

The golden-brown, mildly spiced fish strips are neatly laid atop a crisp bed of lettuce, a truly garnishing spectacle. There’s little to say about CJ’s customer care or ambience that has not been said already.

They have set the benchmark in Uganda’s hospitality sector. No wonder CJ restaurants seem to operate outside the country’s ‘normal’ sluggish economy; how else do you explain their ever-packed eateries despite the least-priced meal going for Shs 18,000 – a soup?

At the newly renovated CJ Namirembe road branch, this delicately seasoned fish meal, priced at Shs 37,000, offers just enough kick to tease the palate without overwhelming it. It is even the featured signature item on the salad page of the Café Javas menu booklet and one of the newest additions.

Each fish strip is exquisitely tender and flaky, encased in a light, satisfying crunch that speaks of expert frying. The supporting cast of ingredients elevates the dish to something special.

The fluffy cilantro-lime rice adds a citrusy zing, perfectly complementing the creamy chunks of ripe avocado. Black beans and sweet corn lend colour and heft, while sautéed bell peppers and onions bring a smoky, caramelised richness to round out the dish.

What truly ties everything together is the generous drizzle of spicy dressing. It’s bold, with a lingering heat that enhances the mild spice of the fish and the natural sweetness of the vegetables. While you might not get the natural ‘fishy’ taste or smell, it’s still a flavorful and well-composed dish that leaves a lasting impression.

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