Parklands, a vibrant neighborhood in Nairobi, Kenya, is a culinary haven where diverse cultures converge to create a rich dining scene. Known for its blend of residential charm and cosmopolitan flair, Parklands offers a variety of restaurants catering to every palate, from authentic Kenyan dishes to international cuisines like Indian, Chinese, and continental. This article provides a detailed guide to the best restaurants in Parklands, incorporating recent reviews, ratings, and insider tips to help you navigate this foodie paradise. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring Nairobi, this comprehensive list will ensure you find the perfect dining spot.
Why Parklands is a Foodie’s Paradise
Parklands’ dining scene reflects Nairobi’s multicultural fabric, offering everything from high-end fine dining to casual eateries. Its proximity to key landmarks like M.P. Shah Hospital and its accessibility via Parklands Road make it a convenient destination for food lovers. The neighborhood’s restaurants are celebrated for their quality, ambiance, and diversity, earning high ratings on platforms like Google and TripAdvisor. With cuisines ranging from spicy Indian curries to savory East African barbecues, Parklands is a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable culinary experience.
Top Restaurants in Parklands: A Curated List
Below is a detailed rundown of the best restaurants in Parklands, based on recent reviews, Google ratings, and customer feedback. Each entry includes key details like cuisine, location, ambiance, and standout dishes, ensuring you have everything you need to plan your next meal.
1. Red Ginger Restaurant
Cuisine: Indian and Asian
Location: Highridge Shopping Centre, Fourth Parklands Ave, Nairobi
Operating Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Google Rating: 4.5/5 (1,659 reviews)
Contact: 0779 444444
Red Ginger is a bustling eatery known for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive menu featuring Indian and Asian cuisine. This restaurant is a favorite among locals, often requiring reservations due to its popularity. The lush green surroundings and outdoor gazebos create a lively yet relaxed dining environment, perfect for family outings or casual meals. However, some diners note that wait times can be long, especially during peak hours, so booking ahead is recommended.
- Standout Dishes: Murgh dum biryani (serves two), naan roti, chicken tikka
- Highlights:
- Diverse menu with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
- Partners with Glovo for online orders and home delivery
- Friendly staff eager to assist with menu choices
- Tip: Arrive early or reserve a spot to avoid long waits, especially on weekends.
2. Open House Restaurant
Cuisine: Indian
Location: Gallant Mall, Parklands Rd, Opposite Total Station, Nairobi
Operating Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Google Rating: 4.5/5 (1,335 reviews)
Contact: 0727 726345
Open House is a high-end Indian restaurant renowned for its authentic flavors and generous portions at affordable prices. Its elegant ambiance and top-notch service make it a go-to for both casual diners and those celebrating special occasions. The restaurant’s reputation for quality has earned it a loyal following, particularly among those seeking traditional Indian dishes.
- Standout Dishes: Butter chicken, paneer tikka, biryani
- Highlights:
- High-quality ingredients and authentic preparation
- Spacious dining area ideal for groups
- Affordable pricing for premium dining
- Tip: Try the thali for a sampling of multiple dishes in one meal.
3. The Maharaja Restaurant
Cuisine: Vegetarian Indian
Location: Opposite M.P. Shah Hospital, Shivachi Road, Nairobi
Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Google Rating: 3.9/5 (491 reviews)
Contact: 020 3750233
The Maharaja is a haven for vegetarian food lovers, offering a buffet-style breakfast and lunch with traditional Indian dishes like jalebi, gathiya, and puri sabji. Its location near M.P. Shah Hospital makes it a convenient choice for hospital visitors. The restaurant also offers special discounts during public and Indian holidays, enhancing its appeal.
- Standout Dishes: Breakfast buffet (jalebi, sambharo), masala dosa
- Highlights:
- Purely vegetarian menu crafted by expert Indian chefs
- Budget-friendly buffet options
- Dine-in, takeaway, and online delivery available
- Tip: Visit during festive seasons for exclusive offers and a vibrant dining experience.
4. Taste of Chinese Restaurant
Cuisine: Chinese
Location: 12th Floor, TRV Parkwest Suites, Nairobi
Operating Hours: 11:30 AM – 10:45 PM
Google Rating: 4.4/5 (903 reviews)
Contact: 0720 222211
Taste of Chinese offers a modern take on traditional Chinese cuisine, with dishes like Gung Bao chicken and sizzling beef. The restaurant’s serene ambiance, complete with ambient lighting, makes it ideal for intimate dinners or small gatherings. Its extensive beverage menu, featuring wines, spirits, and beers, adds to the experience.
- Standout Dishes: Sizzling beef, crab dishes, Gung Bao chicken
- Highlights:
- Tranquil setting with stunning views from the 12th floor
- Reasonable portion sizes at pocket-friendly prices
- Perfect for romantic dinners or business meetings
- Tip: Pair your meal with a craft cocktail for an elevated experience.
5. Planet Barbeque
Cuisine: East African BBQ
Location: Heart of Parklands, Nairobi
Operating Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Google Rating: Not specified (highly praised in local reviews)
Contact: Not listed
Planet Barbeque is a contemporary restaurant offering a menu centered around grilled specialties like tikka, poussin, and chooza chicken, served hot with complimentary flavored chips, chili, yogurt, and peri-peri sauce. Its indoor and outdoor seating areas provide a comfortable and vibrant dining experience.
- Standout Dishes: Chooza chicken, tikka, grilled poussin
- Highlights:
- Freshly grilled dishes with bold East African flavors
- Cozy indoor and outdoor seating options
- Free sides enhance the value of each meal
- Tip: Opt for outdoor seating to enjoy Parklands’ pleasant weather.
6. Slush Restaurant
Cuisine: Vegan Indian
Location: Kenrail Towers, Terrace (T) Floor, South Wing, Off Parklands Rd, Nairobi
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Google Rating: Not specified (highly rated for vegan options)
Contact: Not listed
Slush is a luxurious vegan Indian restaurant with a focus on fresh, high-quality vegetables. Its spacious and airy design creates an inviting atmosphere, while its diverse menu includes favorites like bhajia, Jain omelet, and sada dhosa. This is an excellent choice for those looking to explore plant-based Indian cuisine.
- Standout Dishes: Bhajia, sada dhosa, Jain omelet
- Highlights:
- Exclusively vegan menu with authentic Indian flavors
- Spacious and elegant ambiance
- Ideal for health-conscious diners
- Tip: Ask the staff for recommendations to customize your meal.
7. About Thyme
Cuisine: Continental
Location: Parklands, Nairobi
Operating Hours: Not specified
Google Rating: Not specified (highly recommended in local guides)
Contact: Not listed
About Thyme is celebrated for its continental dishes, offering a refined dining experience with a focus on European-inspired cuisine. Its sophisticated ambiance makes it suitable for both casual lunches and special occasions.
- Standout Dishes: Grilled salmon, pasta dishes, desserts
- Highlights:
- Elegant setting for upscale dining
- Diverse continental menu catering to various tastes
- Attentive service enhances the experience
- Tip: Perfect for a business lunch or a quiet dinner date.
8. Hashmi BBQ
Cuisine: East African
Location: Parklands, Nairobi
Operating Hours: Not specified
Google Rating: Not specified (popular among locals)
Contact: Not listed
Hashmi BBQ is a go-to for East African flavors, particularly its succulent barbecue dishes. The restaurant’s casual vibe and flavorful offerings make it a hit among locals seeking authentic Kenyan and East African cuisine.
- Standout Dishes: Mixed grill platters, nyama choma
- Highlights:
- Authentic East African barbecue experience
- Casual and welcoming atmosphere
- Generous portions at reasonable prices
- Tip: Try the mixed grill platter for a variety of flavors.
Dining Trends in Parklands
Parklands’ culinary landscape is shaped by its multicultural influences, with Indian and Chinese cuisines dominating due to the area’s diverse population. Recent trends include:
- Rise of Vegan Options: Restaurants like Slush and The Maharaja cater to the growing demand for plant-based dining, offering creative vegan takes on traditional dishes.
- Online Ordering and Delivery: Many restaurants, including Red Ginger and The Maharaja, partner with platforms like Glovo and Yum Deliveries for convenient home delivery.
- Buffet-Style Dining: The Maharaja’s affordable breakfast and lunch buffets are a hit, providing value for money and variety.
- Outdoor Seating:requisites**: Planet Barbeque and Red Ginger offer outdoor gazebos, reflecting a preference for open-air dining in Nairobi’s pleasant climate.
Tips for Dining in Parklands
To make the most of your dining experience in Parklands, consider the following:
- Make Reservations: Popular spots like Red Ginger can get busy, especially on weekends. Call ahead to secure a table.
- Explore Delivery Options: If you’re short on time, use services like Glovo or Yum Deliveries for home delivery from top restaurants.
- Check Operating Hours: Some restaurants, like Slush, open early, while others start taking orders at noon. Plan accordingly.
- Ask for Recommendations: Staff at places like Open House and Taste of Chinese are known for helping diners choose the best dishes.
- Dress for the Occasion: While most restaurants are casual, upscale venues like About Thyme may call for smart-casual attire.
Challenges and Considerations
While Parklands boasts a vibrant dining scene, some challenges exist:
- Wait Times: As noted at Red Ginger, busy restaurants may have longer wait times during peak hours.
- Accessibility: Some restaurants, like Taste of Chinese, are located in high-rise buildings, which may pose accessibility challenges for some diners.
- Consistency: Reviews for Red Ginger and others mention occasional inconsistencies in service speed, so patience may be required during busy periods.
Parklands, Nairobi, is a culinary gem offering a diverse range of dining experiences, from the spicy flavors of Indian cuisine at Open House and The Maharaja to the smoky delights of East African barbecue at Planet Barbeque and Hashmi BBQ. With high Google ratings, vibrant atmospheres, and a variety of cuisines, these restaurants cater to every taste and occasion. Whether you’re craving a fine dining experience at About Thyme or a casual meal at Red Ginger, Parklands has something to satisfy every foodie. Use this guide to explore the best restaurants in Parklands, and don’t forget to make reservations for a seamless dining experience.
