Nairobi is a vibrant city with a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from traditional Kenyan dishes to international gourmet experiences. Whether you’re a foodie looking for the best fine dining restaurants, a traveler seeking authentic local flavors, or a resident wanting to explore new eateries, Nairobi has something to satisfy every palate.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best restaurants in Nairobi, each offering a unique dining experience. From luxurious venues with stunning views to cozy spots serving the best Kenyan dishes, this guide will help you discover where to eat in Nairobi.
1. Tamarind Nairobi
Tamarind Nairobi is a name synonymous with fine dining in Kenya. Located in the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden, this restaurant is renowned for its seafood dishes, prepared with the freshest ingredients. Tamarind offers a blend of African, Asian, and French cuisines, creating a menu that is both diverse and exciting. The elegant ambiance, coupled with exceptional service, makes Tamarind a top choice for special occasions and business dinners.
Key Features:
- Renowned for seafood dishes
- Blend of African, Asian, and French cuisines
- Elegant ambiance with exceptional service
- Located in the historic Karen Blixen Coffee Garden
2. Carnivore Restaurant
Carnivore is one of Nairobi’s most famous restaurants, known for its unique dining experience. As the name suggests, Carnivore is a meat lover’s paradise, offering an all-you-can-eat buffet of various meats, including beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and exotic game meat like ostrich and crocodile. The meats are roasted on traditional Maasai swords over a charcoal fire, adding an authentic touch to the experience. With its vibrant atmosphere and live entertainment, Carnivore is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a traditional Kenyan feast.
Key Features:
- Famous for all-you-can-eat meat buffet
- Offers exotic game meat like ostrich and crocodile
- Traditional Maasai-style roasting over a charcoal fire
- Vibrant atmosphere with live entertainment
3. Talisman Restaurant
Talisman Restaurant, located in Karen, is a popular spot for both locals and expatriates. This restaurant offers a fusion of European, Pan-Asian, and African cuisines, creating a menu that is as eclectic as it is delicious. Talisman is known for its beautiful garden setting, cozy interiors, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant also prides itself on using organic, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every dish is fresh and flavorful.
Key Features:
- Fusion of European, Pan-Asian, and African cuisines
- Beautiful garden setting with cozy interiors
- Focus on organic, locally sourced ingredients
- Popular among locals and expatriates
4. Mama Oliech Restaurant
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Mama Oliech Restaurant is a favorite among locals for its authentic Kenyan cuisine. Located in the Kilimani area, this restaurant gained international fame after being visited by former U.S. President Barack Obama in 2015. Mama Oliech is best known for its fried tilapia, served with ugali (a staple Kenyan dish made from maize flour) and kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad). The restaurant offers a casual dining experience, making it a great place to enjoy traditional Kenyan flavors in a relaxed setting.
Key Features:
- Authentic Kenyan cuisine
- Famous for fried tilapia with ugali and kachumbari
- Casual dining experience in a relaxed setting
- Popular among locals and tourists
5. Nyama Mama
Nyama Mama is a modern Kenyan diner that brings a contemporary twist to traditional Kenyan dishes. The restaurant offers a vibrant and eclectic menu featuring items like nyama choma (grilled meat), samosas, and chapati wraps, all with a unique, modern twist. The decor is inspired by Kenyan culture, with bright colors and handcrafted furniture creating a lively atmosphere. Nyama Mama is perfect for those looking to experience Kenyan cuisine in a fun and stylish setting.
Key Features:
- Modern twist on traditional Kenyan dishes
- Vibrant and eclectic menu
- Decor inspired by Kenyan culture
- Fun and stylish dining experience
6. Seven Seafood & Grill
Seven Seafood & Grill, located in the ABC Place in Westlands, is a top destination for seafood lovers in Nairobi. The restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that features a variety of seafood dishes, including oysters, prawns, and fresh fish. The meats are equally impressive, with steaks that are aged and grilled to perfection. Seven is known for its elegant ambiance, attentive service, and a well-curated wine list, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a business lunch.
Key Features:
- Specializes in seafood dishes and aged steaks
- Sophisticated dining experience with elegant ambiance
- Well-curated wine list and attentive service
- Located in the upscale ABC Place, Westlands
7. The Lord Erroll Gourmet Restaurant
The Lord Erroll Gourmet Restaurant is a fine dining establishment located in the Runda area of Nairobi. This award-winning restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience with a menu that features a blend of European and African cuisines. The Lord Erroll is known for its beautifully landscaped gardens, elegant interiors, and impeccable service. The restaurant is particularly popular for afternoon tea, Sunday brunch, and special occasions.
Key Features:
- Fine dining with a blend of European and African cuisines
- Luxurious setting with beautifully landscaped gardens
- Popular for afternoon tea and Sunday brunch
- Impeccable service and elegant interiors
8. About Thyme
About Thyme is a charming restaurant located in the Westlands area, offering a menu that features a mix of international and fusion dishes. The restaurant is known for its cozy ambiance, with both indoor and outdoor seating options available. About Thyme’s menu changes seasonally, ensuring that the dishes are always fresh and in line with the latest culinary trends. The restaurant is particularly popular for brunch, offering a variety of breakfast and lunch options in a relaxed setting.
Key Features:
- Mix of international and fusion dishes
- Cozy ambiance with indoor and outdoor seating
- Seasonal menu with fresh ingredients
- Popular brunch spot in Westlands
9. Abyssinia Restaurant
Abyssinia Restaurant offers a unique dining experience in Nairobi, specializing in authentic Ethiopian cuisine. Located in the Westlands area, Abyssinia is known for its traditional dishes such as injera (a sourdough flatbread) served with a variety of stews and curries. The restaurant’s decor is inspired by Ethiopian culture, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Abyssinia is a great place to explore the rich flavors of Ethiopia in a setting that feels like a home away from home.
Key Features:
- Specializes in authentic Ethiopian cuisine
- Traditional dishes like injera with stews and curries
- Warm and inviting atmosphere with Ethiopian-inspired decor
- Located in the Westlands area
10. Wasp & Sprout
Wasp & Sprout is a trendy café and restaurant located in the Lavington area of Nairobi. Known for its laid-back vibe, Wasp & Sprout offers a menu that includes a mix of healthy options, comfort foods, and freshly baked pastries. The café is also a popular spot for brunch, with dishes like avocado toast, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee being crowd favorites. The decor is eclectic and cozy, making it a great place to relax, work, or catch up with friends.
Key Features:
- Trendy café with a mix of healthy options and comfort foods
- Popular spot for brunch with freshly baked pastries
- Laid-back vibe with eclectic and cozy decor
- Located in the Lavington area
Conclusion
Nairobi’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, offering a range of dining experiences that cater to every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking to indulge in fine dining, savor traditional Kenyan dishes, or explore international cuisines, the top 10 restaurants listed above provide a perfect starting point.
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Explore these top restaurants in Nairobi and discover the best flavors the city has to offer!
