A HOME AWAY FROM HOME: The customers here know each other and act like one big family, writes Edgar R. Batte
The Junction is where a loyal crowd meets regularly for beer and more. When Mark Kaheru, the proprietor was ready to take over the hangout, he did not have a clear concept in mind. Nile Breweries came in and offered some furniture, display material and also painted the place.
Kaheeru brought in sofas to create a lounge area. One of the sofa seats was donated by his big brother. It was really a matter of deciding where to put what. The display counters were done on order from Arnie Designs while Design Centre, next door, did some of the stools and the spirits bar counter.
UBL also offered some display material. When it was all set, the proprietor concentrated on listening to customers’ suggestions. Four years on, he is still listening, perhaps the reason why people continue to opt for the nook.
The place got its name from one of the first patrons called Emuron Alemu. It was aptly named as it is at the junction between Kiwatule and Ntinda, Naalya roads.
The slogan, ‘Where Different Walks of Life Meet’, is something of interest and Kaheru did not coin it either. “Edgar Ssemwanga, one of our longest patrons coined the slogan for us in 2011 and we made it part of the logo. We still live by that philosophy. We have had all types of people walk in and enjoy themselves at TJ,” Kaheru explains.
At this joint, you will find people from all walks of life. On the night where I was there to take photos, there was a high-ranking police officer and a few other recognisable faces.
The line is only drawn on age. Underage customers are only welcome during the day to enjoy a soda and a meal. Even then, Kaheru adds that the minors still have to be escorted by an adult.
The drinks come chilled, the food hot, the ambience both relaxing and bubbly, the fun and games engaging, and in one corner a deejay who lets the music do the talking. You will find The Junction a place to call home. One of the nights to be part of is the Quiz Night where your mind will be sent jogging with questions from a range of topics.
You are welcome any day. “Parrot Practices are on every Monday and on Tuesdays, we wind down. We are starting Wicked Heineken Wednesday soon and have a fun-filled and exciting quiz on Thursdays. Friday is Open Discs Night for any deejay- aspiring or established, to play and mix music. Saturday is No Holds Barred and Sunday is Sunday,” Kaheru adds.
Beer prices range from Shs2,500 to Shs4,500. You can enjoy spirits from as low as Shs1,000 for a 30ml tot. Sodas go for Shs1,500 and water goes for Shs1,000. Coffee is also available at Shs4,000. Food prices range between Shs3,000 and Shs7,000, a pork rib or skewer goes for Shs8,000, a piece of roasted chicken for Shs4,000 and fried chicken with tater tots for Shs6,000. Fish ranges from Shs8,000 to Shs25,000 depending on size.
Well, sometimes service can be slow whereas the billing is too quick. The parking lot is rather small. Even then, you are assured of a secure parking, even for cars parked across the road. Management also needs to look into cleaning the toilets at all times.
Otherwise, TJ is a place where the notion of “a home away from home’” subtly comes out because most of the revellers there know one another, and call one another by first name. If it is not for a beer or meal then you will find good company at the hangout.