Nairobi’s culinary scene offers a delightful variety of seafood dining experiences, with restaurants serving everything from lobsters, oysters, and prawns to octopus and crabs. Whether you’re looking for an elegant fine-dining experience or a casual seafood feast, the city has something for everyone.
Below is a curated list of some of the best seafood restaurants in Nairobi. These establishments provide top-tier cuisine, ambiance, and service, making them must-visit spots for seafood lovers.
1. Mawimbi Seafood Restaurant
Often regarded as the top seafood restaurant in Nairobi, Mawimbi combines fine dining with a vibrant ambiance. The restaurant offers a wide variety of premium seafood, including lobsters, prawns, and octopus, in an exquisite setting perfect for special occasions.
- Location: Kijabe Street, Opposite Norfolk Towers
- Contact: 0758 956 805
What to Try: Grilled octopus, garlic prawns, and oysters served with champagne.
2. Seven Seafood & Grill
Seven Seafood & Grill is known for being one of Nairobi’s premier steakhouses and seafood destinations. The restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring oysters, lobsters, prawns, and fresh fish alongside expertly prepared steaks.
- Location: ABC Place, Waiyaki Way, Westlands
- Contact: 0737 776 677
Specialties: Oyster platters, chili garlic crab, and blackened salmon.
3. Oysters & More
Located in Village Market, Oysters & More is an upscale seafood bar that serves fresh oysters, aged meat, and fine wines. The restaurant has a refined atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both casual and celebratory dining experiences.
- Location: Village Market, Limuru Road
- Contact: 0717 587 587
Must Try: Raw oysters, prawn tempura, and a glass of champagne for a perfect pairing.
4. Samaki Samaki Seafood & Jazz
Samaki Samaki blends seafood and live jazz music, creating a laid-back yet lively ambiance. It serves an impressive selection of grilled seafood, including prawns, calamari, and tilapia, complemented by soulful jazz performances.
- Location: Othaya Road, Kileleshwa
- Contact: 0737 345 667
What to Expect: Seafood platters paired with signature cocktails, plus live jazz every weekend.
5. The Talisman Restaurant
The Talisman is an elegant restaurant in Karen offering a mix of local and international cuisine. Its seafood selection is both diverse and fresh, featuring unique dishes inspired by global flavors.
- Location: Karen
- Contact: 0705 999 997
Customer Favorite: Calamari with chili dipping sauce and seared tuna.
6. Ocean Basket Kenya
Ocean Basket is an international seafood chain known for generous portions and affordable seafood dishes. With a Mediterranean-inspired menu, it serves prawns, sushi, calamari, and grilled fish.
- Location: Westgate Mall, 15 Mwanzi Road
- Contact: 0745 435 036
Top Picks: Sushi platters, seafood baskets, and prawns in garlic butter.
7. Everything Fish
As the name suggests, Everything Fish offers an extensive selection of seafood dishes. The restaurant is known for its casual vibe and well-prepared seafood, making it a great spot for family outings or sports enthusiasts.
- Location: Junction of Ngong Road and Ole Dume Road
- Contact: 0113 796 167
Highlights: Grilled fish platters and seafood pasta.
8. O’Sinkirri Restaurant
O’Sinkirri specializes in freshly prepared salmon and other seafood dishes. It is popular among diners looking for well-cooked, flavorful seafood in a serene atmosphere.
- Location: Ring Road, Kilimani
- Contact: 0708 087 047
Recommended Dishes: Seared salmon with mango salsa and lemon butter shrimp.
9. Tatu Restaurant at Fairmont The Norfolk
Tatu Restaurant combines luxury and authenticity, offering a diverse menu of seafood and premium steaks. It is set within the prestigious Fairmont Norfolk Hotel and is known for sourcing organic and fresh ingredients.
- Location: Fairmont The Norfolk, Harry Thuku Road
- Contacts: 020 226 5000 / 020 221 6796
Signature Dish: Black Angus beef paired with grilled prawns.
10. Seavillians Seafood
Seavillians Seafood focuses on delivering locally inspired seafood dishes with a Kenyan twist. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience that showcases Kenyan flavors blended with fresh seafood.
- Location: Kikao Place, Along Gitanga Road, Opposite Quickmart Valley Arcade
- Contact: 0796 844 367
Special Recommendation: Kenyan-style grilled tilapia and prawns pilau.
Why Nairobi’s Seafood Scene is Thriving
Although Nairobi is an inland city, it has witnessed tremendous growth in the seafood dining scene, thanks to direct sourcing from Kenya’s coastal towns like Mombasa and Lamu. Many restaurants now import premium seafood from international markets, including oysters from Europe and lobsters from the Indian Ocean. Additionally, increased tourism and an evolving food culture have contributed to diversified menus and world-class seafood restaurants.
Seafood Dining Tips
- Check for Freshness: Look for restaurants that mention the sourcing details of their seafood.
- Pairing Options: Try pairing your seafood dish with a glass of white wine or champagne for an enhanced dining experience.
- Explore Kenyan-Inspired Dishes: Some restaurants, like Seavillians, offer seafood with a local flair. Don’t miss the chance to try Kenyan-styled prawns or tilapia.
Whether you’re craving lobster, oysters, sushi, or a seafood platter, Nairobi has some of the best seafood restaurants that guarantee a delightful dining experience. With a blend of fine dining and casual spots, the city’s seafood scene caters to all kinds of food lovers. Make sure to visit any of these restaurants on your next night out and enjoy world-class seafood right in the heart of Nairobi.
