Safari Grill
Reviews of Safari Grill
from GoogleTried the butter chicken at Safari Grill for the first time and it was honestly excellent. The dish came out piping hot, the portion size was perfect, and the flavor was rich and well-balanced. The chicken was super juicy and tender, which made it even better. The service really stood out too. Ali was incredibly friendly and made me feel like family from the moment I walked in. Definitely coming
I am extremely disappointed with the experience I had at this restaurant. This wasn't just about getting the wrong food, it was about the complete lack of customer service and respect that I received. When I placed my order, I made a very clear and simple request. I specifically asked for white rice and clearly stated that I did not want vegetable rice. Unfortunately, despite making this request multiple times, I was once again given vegetable rice. This has happened before, and it's frustrating when a customer takes the time to clearly explain their order, only for it to be ignored. When I politely tried to explain why I don't eat vegetable rice, instead of listening to me or trying to resolve the issue, the chef repeatedly interrupted me and wouldn't even let me finish speaking. Before I could explain myself, he cut me off and told me to "just leave it and go." As a paying customer, I found this incredibly disrespectful. I wasn't being rude or asking for anything unreasonable, I simply wanted the meal I had ordered. Since I was essentially being told to leave, I decided that I would do exactly that. However, as I actually started to leave, the chef suddenly became angry with me again. It made absolutely no sense. First, I was told to leave, and then when I did, I was met with even more hostility. The entire interaction was confusing, unprofessional, and unnecessary. To make matters even worse, the chef told me that he was going to block my phone number. I have never experienced anything like this from a restaurant. Instead of addressing a customer's concern or trying to make things right, I was threatened with being blocked simply because I wanted the order I had specifically requested. Mistakes can happen in any restaurant, and I understand that. What matters is how those mistakes are handled. Unfortunately, this situation was handled in the worst way possible. There was no apology, no attempt to listen, no effort to fix the problem, just interruptions, disrespect, and hostility. Good customer service means listening to your customers, treating them with respect, and correcting mistakes when they happen. Sadly, I experienced none of that here. I left feeling frustrated, disrespected, and extremely disappointed. I sincerely hope the management takes customer service more seriously and provides better training on how to communicate with customers professionally. No one should be treated this way over such a simple request. I won't be returning after this experience, and I genuinely hope they improve so future customers don't have to go through what I did.
I had a take out with total 4 orders of Ribs, 2 orders of Mogo and Malai Shrimp Korma with Rice and Naan. I particularly asked to make sure if I have enough Raita and other sauces. When I reached home and opened the package, only one Raita and one of other sauces. Portions of Mogo was very small. Only 4 shrimps in Korma, etc. Korma curry dripped inside the bag as well. I called to let the person know and he answered my phone and hung up. I was very disappointed.
Extremely disappointed again... we called before coming and were excited to dine here. Today, the restaurant was quiet when we entered. Ordered food, almost 15 mins later we were told they dont have what we ordered. Then we changed our order, 45 min later I asked the Manager to check on our meal, who then shrugged his shoulders and said it will come when it will come and that they were all out of food as last night was busy for them and walked away... needless to say we left and only paid for what was brought to table 1 x side dish and 2 x chais...we were at Safari grill almost 3 years ago and had a similar experience. I know their food is great and popular but thats not the reason to be arrogant and disrespect the customers!
Food was really tasty. Iove the ribs and mogo. Good spices and the restaurant is very well themed with African items in the walls. Staff aren't the friendliest but the food is worth it. Gets very busy on Friday nights. Prices are a bit on the steep side but they have a good range of African dishes. Good amount of parking as well.
Edit - Oct 25th, 2026 We did Take out order of ribs and mogo to give it one more try and was i ever disappointed. The mogo was burnt (as shown in picture)when I opened my takeout. We called, talked to the owner and his response was dont order again. At this point, I honestly am done with this place. Don't go here. We ordered Ribs, mogo and Kababs. Ribs weren't good. Kababs were flat in taste. Mogo is overpriced and hated the chutneys...they are watered down. Sorry for being harsh but for $120 i wasn't satisfied. Service wasn't there. She never asked for water or how everything was either.
If you have one of those "don't feel like cooking" moments, order the pilipili cassava chips with their famous short ribs. We loooove medium spiced ribs. Just perfect. Have that with a beer. The best ribs in Canada. If you ever find better, please let me know. ;)
Had a dinner with my friends from Kenya tonight. The Indian cuisine African style was amazing in presentation and tasted superb. Very happy. The owner was great and provided excellent service. Thank you. Will definitely refer to others and will be back again.
Excellent! Authentic African food and great atmosphere. Service was fantastic!
Hello, I just wanted to say thank you. My family and I enjoy coming to Safari Grill. The food is always delicious, and the staff are friendly and welcoming. We always have a great experience when we visit. Thank you for your excellent service. Keep up the great work!
Love Safari Grill! You need to order the Foradhani platter, masala mogo, ugali & mchicha.. I can keep the list going with this place! Love the service, atmosphere and it is definitely my go-to place whenever I’m craving some well-seasoned meats and flavours. Definitely a must-try location for good food!
Safari Grill in Calgary never disappoints, but my absolute favorites are the Short Beef Ribs and Samaki. The ribs are smoky, tender, and packed with bold East African flavors, perfectly marinated and grilled to perfection. The Samaki, a deliciously spiced fish dish, is crispy on the outside and moist inside. Paired with their signature sauces, it’s a must-try! I have always had great customer service both by the staff and by Ali himself. He is very funny and makes your visit enjoyable and memorable. Always excited to come back.
About Safari Grill
A halal East African restaurant with a safari-themed dining room on 28 Street SE near Forest Lawn.
What to order
The mishkaki skewers and mogo are the core of the menu, alongside Tanzanian-style curries. The short beef ribs are smoky and tender, and the samaki fish is crisp outside and moist inside. For a range of dishes, try the Foradhani platter or the masala mogo with ugali and mchicha, which diners recommend.
Before you go
The food and the friendly service are the highlights, and diners say the staff make them feel like family. The butter chicken is rich, well balanced and juicy. Call ahead to check the menu for the day. The dining room works well for groups and families.
| Saturday | 1–9:30 p.m. |
|---|---|
| Sunday | 1–9:30 p.m. |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 3–9:30 p.m. |
| Wednesday | 3–9:30 p.m. |
| Thursday | 3–9:30 p.m. |
| Friday | 1–9:30 p.m. |