Liberian Restaurant Kendejah Now Open in Pelton Plaza

Kendejah, a new Liberian restaurant, has opened at  197 Pelton Center Way in Pelton Plaza in Downtown San Leandro.

The West African nation of Liberia was founded in 1822 for the resettlement of freed American slaves, thus much of its culture and food is derived from African-American culture. In fact, the first eight presidents of Liberia (whose name is derived from the Latin word liber, which means free) were born in the U.S. When visiting Kendejah you can expect influences from Southern cuisine, such as okra and collard greens, creating an intriguing balance of exotic and familiar flavors.

Kendejah uses only organic meat in its dishes, and at first glance, the menu looks to cater mostly to the meat-eater.  But Kendejah also offers vegetarian versions of roughly 80% of its menu, so there are many options.

In Liberia, rice is the predominant starch–in fact it is often eaten twice a day. Fufu, a staple doughy food, most often made from cassava, is served here alongside a peanut soup with organic beef and shrimp. Cassava is a common ingredient in Liberian cuisine, and its versatility is reflected in Kendejah’s menu.  Some dishes that you will find on Kendejah’s menu include collard greens and rice, okra sauce served with rice, oxtail and rice with beans, and roasted meat kabobs.

The addition of Kendejah provides much desired diversity in dining options in the Downtown area. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 AM until 11:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM until midnight, and is closed on Sundays.