Nairobi is Kenya's vibrant capital city and a major hub for East Africa, blending modern skyscrapers with abundant wildlife right at the city's edge. It is the only city in the world with a national park within its boundaries, where lions and giraffes roam against a backdrop of the urban skyline. Known as the 'Green City in the Sun,' Nairobi offers world-class dining, diverse culture, and serves as the gateway to Kenya's legendary safari destinations.
Nairobi's food scene reflects the city's cosmopolitan character, blending traditional Kenyan staples like nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali, sukuma wiki and tilapia with an exceptional range of international cuisines. The city has world-class Indian, Italian, Japanese, Ethiopian and Chinese restaurants, while a growing farm-to-table movement celebrates Kenya's incredible fresh produce. Kenyan coffee is among the world's best and forms the basis of a thriving café culture.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define Nairobi.
Nyama Choma
Kenya's national dish — slow-grilled goat or beef over charcoal, served with kachumbari salsa and ugali
Where to try: Carnivore Restaurant or any local nyama choma joint
Price: $8-25
Ugali with Sukuma Wiki
White maize flour porridge served with braised kale — the quintessential Kenyan comfort food
Where to try: K'Osewe Ranalo Foods, Nyumba restaurant
Price: $2-5
Tilapia with Ugali
Fresh-water tilapia fried whole or grilled, a staple of Luo cuisine and beloved across Kenya
Where to try: Mama Oliech, Ranalo Foods
Price: $5-10
Kenyan Tea (Chai)
Strong spiced milk tea brewed together with black tea and a blend of cardamom, ginger and cinnamon
Where to try: Any local café, roadside stall or Java House
Price: $1-3
Mutura
Traditional Kenyan blood sausage stuffed with minced goat meat and spices — a street food classic
Where to try: Street food vendors in Westlands and CBD evenings
Price: $1-3
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Carnivore Restaurant
Nairobi's most iconic dining institution since 1980, Carnivore serves a rotating selection of meats including beef, lamb, chicken and seasonal game meats on traditional Maasai swords over an open charcoal pit. The all-you-can-eat format continues until you raise the white flag of surrender.
Known for: Famous for exotic meats and the all-you-can-eat concept
Langata Road, Nairobi
Tamarind Nairobi
One of Nairobi's most celebrated restaurants, Tamarind has been serving exceptional seafood and continental cuisine since 1969. The elegant venue on the 4th floor of the National Bank Building offers stunning views and impeccable service.
Known for: Finest seafood in Nairobi with excellent wine list
National Bank Building, Harambee Avenue, Nairobi CBD
Talisman Restaurant
A Karen institution beloved by Nairobi's expat community, Talisman serves beautifully crafted international cuisine in a gorgeous garden setting. The menu changes regularly to highlight seasonal ingredients and global culinary trends.
Known for: Garden dining with eclectic international menu
320 Ngong Road, Karen, Nairobi
Open House Indian Restaurant
Nairobi's most popular Indian restaurant in Westlands, Open House is renowned for its authentic Punjabi and South Indian cuisine. The extensive menu includes excellent biryanis, tandoori meats and vegetarian options at reasonable prices.
Known for: Authentic Indian curries and biryanis, excellent value
Waiyaki Way, Westlands, Nairobi
Java House
Nairobi's most beloved coffee shop chain, Java House serves excellent Kenyan coffee, fresh juices, all-day breakfasts, salads and grills. With multiple locations across the city, it's the go-to spot for a reliable, comfortable meal.
Known for: Best Kenyan coffee and reliable all-day dining
Multiple locations citywide (flagship at Adam's Arcade, Ngong Road)
Artcaffé
A popular upscale café and restaurant chain with several Nairobi locations, Artcaffé serves excellent coffee, wood-fired pizzas, pasta, salads and cakes in a modern comfortable setting.
Known for: Wood-fired pizzas and excellent café brunch menu
Village Market, Gigiri and multiple locations, Nairobi
Nyama Mama
A vibrant restaurant celebrating Kenyan street food and home cooking with a modern twist. Nyama Mama serves dishes inspired by the 42 Kenyan tribes using locally sourced ingredients in a colourful, contemporary setting.
Known for: Modern Kenyan cuisine celebrating local flavours
The Junction Mall, Ngong Road, Nairobi
K'Osewe Ranalo Foods
One of Nairobi's most authentic traditional restaurants, Ranalo Foods specialises in Luo cuisine from Western Kenya including freshwater fish, traditional stews and ugali. A beloved local institution for Kenyan comfort food.
Known for: Authentic Luo cuisine and Kenyan traditional foods
Ronald Ngala Street, Nairobi CBD
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
International
Lord Delamere Terrace
The iconic colonial-era terrace at the Fairmont Norfolk Hotel, a historic Nairobi landmark where explorers and adventurers have gathered since 1904. The perfect spot for sundowners and light meals with a slice of Nairobi history.
Known for: Historic atmosphere and excellent cocktails at Nairobi's most famous terrace
Fairmont The Norfolk, Harry Thuku Road, Nairobi
Brew Bistro & Lounge
Nairobi's premier craft beer bar and restaurant on the rooftop of the Westgate Mall, Brew Bistro serves an impressive selection of local and imported craft beers alongside burgers, wood-fired pizzas and sharing plates.
Known for: Best craft beer selection in Nairobi with rooftop views
Westgate Mall, Westlands, Nairobi
The Merchant
A sophisticated gastropub in Kilimani serving elevated pub food and craft cocktails in a stylish industrial-chic setting. Popular with Nairobi's young professionals for after-work drinks and casual fine dining.
Known for: Elevated gastropub food with excellent cocktail programme
Argwings Kodhek Road, Kilimani, Nairobi
Alchemy Bar & Kitchen
A sophisticated cocktail bar and kitchen in Kilimani with an inventive menu of sharing plates and expertly crafted cocktails. The stylish interior and creative drinks list make this one of Nairobi's trendiest dining destinations.
Known for: Nairobi's best craft cocktails and creative sharing plates
Argwings Kodhek Road, Kilimani, Nairobi
Fairview Hotel Restaurant
The restaurant at the long-established Fairview Hotel in Bishops Road serves a wide-ranging international buffet and à la carte menu in a garden setting. Popular for Sunday lunches and family gatherings.
Known for: Excellent Sunday roast and garden dining experience
Bishop's Road, Nairobi
Wine & Grill
A stylish wine bar and grill in Westlands with an impressive selection of South African and European wines by the glass or bottle, paired with a menu of charcuterie, cheese boards and grilled meats.
Known for: Best wine selection in Westlands with excellent cheese and charcuterie
Westlands, Nairobi
Brunch Club Nairobi
Nairobi's most popular weekend brunch spot, the Brunch Club serves extravagant brunch spreads with free-flowing mimosas, live DJ sets and a festive atmosphere. The weekend event is a Nairobi social institution.
Known for: The best weekend brunch experience in Nairobi with live music
Westlands, Nairobi
Italian
The Mediterraneo
Nairobi's most acclaimed Italian restaurant, The Mediterraneo in Westlands serves authentic Italian cuisine using imported Italian ingredients alongside East African produce. The pasta is made fresh daily.
Known for: Handmade pasta and authentic Italian hospitality
Westlands Road, Westlands, Nairobi
Trattoria Restaurant
One of Nairobi's oldest and most beloved Italian restaurants, Trattoria has been serving classic Italian pasta, pizza and desserts in the CBD since 1969. A Nairobi institution known for consistency and excellent value.
Known for: Classic Italian comfort food since 1969
Kaunda Street, Nairobi CBD
Osteria Del Chianti
A charming Italian wine bar and restaurant in Lavington with an exceptional Italian wine list and rustic Tuscan cuisine. The romantic candlelit setting makes it ideal for a special dinner.
Known for: Excellent Italian wine selection and authentic Tuscan cuisine
Lavington, Nairobi
Sapore di Pizza
A neighbourhood Italian restaurant in Karen popular with expat families and locals for its excellent wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, fresh pasta and welcoming atmosphere.
Known for: Authentic Neapolitan pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven
Karen, Nairobi
American
Big Square
Nairobi's most popular homegrown burger chain, Big Square is beloved for its thick, juicy burgers and loaded fries. Several locations across the city serve generous portions at reasonable prices.
Known for: Best burgers in Nairobi at great value
Multiple locations (main: Westlands, Adams Arcade, Thika Road Mall)
Roadhouse Grill
A lively American-style roadhouse diner in the city with honky-tonk décor, excellent burgers, ribs and fries. Popular with expats and Kenyan families for a fun, informal dining experience.
Known for: American diner classics with great ribs and burgers
Lower Kabete Road, Nairobi
Brazilian
Pampa Churrasqueria
A lively Brazilian churrascaria in Westlands serving an endless parade of grilled meats carved tableside by sword-carrying gauchos. The all-you-can-eat concept includes an extensive salad bar.
Known for: Authentic Brazilian rodizio with excellent cuts of meat
Peponi Road, Westlands, Nairobi
Fogo Gaucho
An upscale Brazilian steakhouse in Westlands serving premium cuts of beef cooked over an open flame. The sophisticated dining room, excellent wine list and attentive service make it one of Nairobi's top special occasion restaurants.
Known for: Premium steaks and Brazilian churrasco
The Oval, Ring Road Westlands, Nairobi
Ethiopian
Pepper Menu
One of Nairobi's best Ethiopian restaurants serving traditional injera-based dishes with spicy stews, lentils and vegetables. The authentic flavours and communal eating style make it a unique dining experience.
Known for: Authentic Ethiopian injera-based communal dining
Kilimani Road, Kilimani, Nairobi
Habesha
An authentic Ethiopian restaurant in the Westlands area serving the full range of traditional injera-based dishes, including excellent vegetarian options. The cosy décor and cultural artefacts create an immersive atmosphere.
Known for: Traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and authentic stews
Westlands, Nairobi
Japanese
Haru Japanese Restaurant
Nairobi's best Japanese restaurant serving fresh sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki and traditional Japanese dishes. The restaurant imports fresh seafood from Japan and uses locally caught fish where appropriate.
Known for: Best sushi and Japanese cuisine in Nairobi
Karen Waterfront, Karen, Nairobi
Furusato Japanese Restaurant
A long-established Japanese restaurant in Nairobi serving sushi, ramen, tempura and bento boxes. Popular with Nairobi's Japanese community for its authenticity and consistent quality.
Known for: Authentic Japanese ramen and bento lunch specials
Sarit Centre, Westlands, Nairobi
Kenyan
Mama Oliech
A legendary street-side eatery in Hurlingham that has been serving the best fried tilapia and ugali in Nairobi for decades. Frequented by politicians, celebrities and locals alike, this no-frills gem is a rite of passage for visitors.
Known for: The most famous fried tilapia in Nairobi — a true local institution
Hurlingham, Nairobi
Tin Roof Café
A beloved Nairobi café and gallery space in the GoDown Arts Centre serving excellent light meals, salads, sandwiches and homemade cakes in a creative atmosphere surrounded by local art.
Known for: Art gallery café with excellent home-baked goods and creative atmosphere
GoDown Arts Centre, Dunga Road, Industrial Area, Nairobi
African
Nyumba
A warmly decorated Kenyan restaurant in Kilimani celebrating the home-cooked meals of Kenya's many communities. The menu features githeri, irio, mukimo, nyama choma and other beloved Kenyan dishes.
Known for: Authentic home-style Kenyan cooking at honest prices
Dennis Pritt Road, Kilimani, Nairobi
Chinese
Panda Chinese Restaurant
One of Nairobi's most established Chinese restaurants, serving authentic Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine to Nairobi's Chinese community and food lovers for over two decades.
Known for: Authentic Chinese cuisine with an excellent dim sum menu
Parklands, Nairobi
Farm
Cultiva Farm Kitchen
A beautiful farm-to-table restaurant in Karen growing much of its own produce on site. The seasonal menu celebrates fresh, local ingredients in a bucolic setting that feels miles from the city.
Known for: Fresh farm produce and excellent brunch menu
Off Karen Road, Karen, Nairobi
Fast Food
Burger Hut
A popular local burger chain in Nairobi's CBD offering filling burgers, wraps and chips at very affordable prices, popular with office workers and students for a quick, satisfying lunch.
Known for: Budget burgers and fast meals in the CBD
Tom Mboya Street, Nairobi CBD
Fusion
The Enchanted Garden
A beautifully set fine dining restaurant in a lush garden in Karen offering an inventive fusion menu combining East African ingredients with European techniques. The romantic garden setting makes it one of Nairobi's most special dining destinations.
Known for: Garden fine dining with East African fusion cuisine
Karen Road, Karen, Nairobi
Grills
Grill House Westlands
A popular Westlands grill restaurant offering generous portions of flame-grilled meats, fresh fish and hearty side dishes. Popular with families and groups for reliable, tasty food at fair prices.
Known for: Flame-grilled meats and generous portions
Westlands, Nairobi
Kenyan Fast Food
Gyms (Chicken Shack)
A beloved Nairobi fast-food chain serving roast chicken, fried chicken and chips. Gyms is a Nairobi institution where workers and families grab quick, satisfying meals at honest prices.
Known for: Affordable roast chicken — a Nairobi fast food staple
Multiple CBD and suburb locations, Nairobi
Modern Kenyan
Soul Food by Kenyan Twist
A bright modern restaurant in Kilimani reinterpreting Kenyan comfort food with contemporary techniques and presentation. The menu features favourite Kenyan dishes elevated with quality ingredients.
Known for: Elevated Kenyan street food and creative local dishes
Kilimani, Nairobi
Pakistani
Hashmi BBQ
A beloved Nairobi institution serving Pakistani-style BBQ, karahi dishes and biryani since 1990. The smoky grills and spicy karahi cooking make this one of the city's most fragrant and satisfying dining experiences.
Known for: Smoky BBQ and karahi dishes with fresh naan bread
Muindi Mbingu Street, Nairobi CBD
Swiss
Mövenpick Café
The renowned Swiss ice cream and café brand serves its world-famous ice cream alongside light meals, pastries and coffee at its Nairobi location in Westlands.
Known for: Swiss ice cream and café culture
Westgate Mall, Westlands, Nairobi
Thai
Thai Chi Restaurant
Nairobi's best Thai restaurant serving authentic flavours in an elegant setting in Westlands. The skilled kitchen team uses imported Thai ingredients to produce spot-on Thai classics.
Known for: Authentic Thai curry pastes and fresh flavours
Westlands, Nairobi
Food tours & tastings in Nairobi
Eat your way through Nairobi with a guide.
Browse food experiences in NairobiWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Roasted Maize (Mahindi)
Corn on the cob roasted over charcoal and seasoned with lemon and chilli
Find it at: Street vendors citywide
Mandazi
Fried dough triangles with coconut and spices, similar to East African donuts
Find it at: Morning markets and roadside stands
Mutura Sausage
Traditional Kenyan blood sausage grilled over charcoal, popular in the evenings
Find it at: Westlands and CBD evening markets
Samosa
Crispy pastry triangles filled with spiced minced meat or vegetables
Find it at: CBD snack stalls and market areas
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
City Market
Central Nairobi market with fresh produce, fish, meat and traditional Kenyan crafts on the upper floor
Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM Mon-Sat
Westlands Saturday Market
Artisan food market with organic produce, homemade jams, specialty coffee and street food
Hours: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM Saturdays
Maasai Market (Village Market Friday)
Craft market at Village Market every Friday also featuring street food vendors
Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Fridays
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Lunch is typically 12:30-2:30 PM; dinner service begins at 7 PM at most restaurants
Booking is essential for popular restaurants on Friday and Saturday evenings
Tipping 10% is customary at sit-down restaurants; round up for good service
Westlands has the highest concentration of restaurants and is the best area for restaurant-hopping
Many upscale restaurants require smart-casual dress; no shorts at fine dining venues
- Vegetarian
- Good options at Indian restaurants, Ethiopian restaurants and modern Kenyan eateries. Most international restaurants have vegetarian menu items.
- Halal
- Wide range of halal options in Parklands, Eastlands and CBD. Most Indian, Pakistani and Ethiopian restaurants are halal-certified.
- Gluten free
- Limited but growing availability. Best to ask specifically at restaurants; rice and ugali-based dishes are naturally gluten-free.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $3-8 per meal | Street food, local eateries and fast food chains |
| Mid-range | $12-25 per meal | Sit-down restaurants with table service |
| Upscale | $40+ per meal | Fine dining and special occasion restaurants |