Top 10 Restaurants in Nairobi

Nairobi is the bustling capital of Kenya and one of Africa’s most vibrant cities. As a commercial and cultural hub, it offers an eclectic mix of cuisines that reflect its diverse population. From local dishes served with a modern twist to international delicacies crafted by top chefs, Nairobi’s food scene has something for every palate. This guide explores ten of the most notable restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience. Also included is a guide on how to get to Nairobi and navigate the city once you arrive.

1. Talisman Restaurant

Nestled in the leafy suburb of Karen, Talisman is a must-visit for any food enthusiast in Nairobi. The restaurant blends European, Pan-Asian, and African influences in a setting that combines rustic charm with modern sophistication. The menu is seasonal and features locally-sourced ingredients, with standout dishes such as the beef fillet with wasabi mash, vegetarian samosas, and Thai curry.

The garden seating is popular for both daytime brunches and romantic evening dinners. Talisman also has a well-curated wine list, handcrafted cocktails, and a dessert menu that includes signature chocolate torte and passionfruit cheesecake.

Getting There: Talisman is located approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Nairobi’s central business district. From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), the drive takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available. Visitors staying in Karen, Lang’ata, or Ngong will find the restaurant easily accessible.

Area Overview: Karen is an affluent neighborhood known for its peaceful ambiance and natural beauty. Nearby attractions include the Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe Centre, and Nairobi National Park, making Talisman an ideal lunch or dinner stop during a day of exploration.

2. Cultiva Farm Kenya

Located along the serene Bogani Road in Karen, Cultiva Farm Kenya is a top-tier dining destination that champions the farm-to-table philosophy. Originally started as a pop-up concept by Chef Ariel Moscardi, Cultiva has evolved into one of Nairobi’s most talked-about restaurants. The menu features dishes that are seasonal and creatively plated, relying heavily on locally grown produce and sustainably sourced meats.

Signature offerings include wood-fired sourdough pizzas, the Cultiva burger, smoked pork ribs, and an innovative selection of vegetarian dishes. Each meal is presented with meticulous detail, showcasing culinary artistry that appeals to both taste and aesthetics. The open kitchen layout allows diners to watch the chefs in action, creating a transparent and immersive dining experience.

The ambiance of Cultiva is casual yet refined. Wooden tables, lush greenery, and artistic decor create an inviting space ideal for long lunches, weekend brunches, or sunset dinners. The restaurant also offers curated experiences, such as wine pairings and seasonal tasting menus.

Getting There: Cultiva is situated about 21 kilometers from Nairobi’s central business district. From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, expect a 40 to 50-minute drive via Lang’ata and Bogani Roads. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Bolt, and Little Cab are all viable transportation options.

Area Overview: Karen remains one of Nairobi’s most picturesque neighborhoods, popular among expatriates and tourists. Its tranquil environment, proximity to wildlife centers, and wide selection of upscale lodging options make it an ideal location for relaxed yet luxurious dining.

3. INTI – A Nikkei Experience

Located on the 20th floor of One Africa Place in Westlands, INTI brings a unique blend of Peruvian and Japanese culinary artistry to Nairobi. As the first Nikkei cuisine restaurant in East Africa, INTI is renowned for its sushi, ceviche, robata grill selections, and vibrant cocktails. The setting offers panoramic views of the city skyline, making it a preferred location for sunset dinners and special occasions.

INTI’s interior design is sleek and modern, with mood lighting and Peruvian textiles adding character to the space. The chefs behind INTI are internationally trained and committed to authenticity, blending bold Japanese flavors with fresh Peruvian ingredients. Popular menu items include miso black cod, tuna tiradito, and the famous INTI roll. The cocktail menu features house infusions and premium spirits, with Pisco-based drinks being a highlight.

The restaurant maintains a smart-casual dress code and attracts a clientele that includes diplomats, corporate executives, and global travelers. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends.

Getting There: INTI is centrally located in the commercial hub of Westlands, approximately 8 kilometers from Nairobi’s CBD and 20 kilometers from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The drive from the airport takes 30 to 45 minutes. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are readily available, and most hotels in Westlands offer shuttle services.

Area Overview: Westlands is a lively district that balances business and nightlife. It is home to numerous embassies, upscale shopping malls, and high-end hotels. Its vibrant energy makes it ideal for travelers seeking both leisure and convenience.

4. Hero Restaurant

Located on the ninth floor of the Trademark Hotel in Village Market, Hero Restaurant offers a superhero-themed dining concept like no other. Its bold design, manga art, and custom comic books create an immersive atmosphere that blends gastronomy with storytelling. Hero is part of the EatOut group and serves contemporary Japanese cuisine with African and Latin American influences.

The menu features creatively plated sushi, bao buns, tempura, and unique takes on sashimi. Highlights include the Samurai Roll, Beef Tataki, and Lobster Ramen. Hero also boasts an inventive cocktail list, with drinks named after fictional characters and served in themed glassware.

While the atmosphere is playful, the food is of exceptional quality, and the service matches the high standards. Ideal for small groups and date nights, the space is intimate yet energetic.

Getting There: Village Market is in the Gigiri area, about 15 kilometers from Nairobi’s CBD and 27 kilometers from the airport. Travel time ranges between 30 and 50 minutes, depending on traffic. Ride-hailing services are the best way to reach this location.

Area Overview: Gigiri is home to the United Nations Headquarters and several embassies, making it one of the safest and most international districts in Nairobi. It’s a good spot for shopping, dining, and upscale accommodation.

5. About Thyme

Hidden away in Westlands, About Thyme is a charming and intimate restaurant known for its romantic garden setting and eclectic menu. It blends European, Asian, and African cuisines, with signature dishes like Thai green curry, lamb tagine, and seafood risotto.

The ambiance is one of the most relaxing in Nairobi. String lights, shaded patios, and attentive service create a serene dining experience. The menu caters to all dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free options. The wine list is extensive, and the desserts are homemade.

Whether you’re planning a quiet lunch, a business dinner, or a weekend treat, About Thyme consistently delivers quality and hospitality.

Getting There: About Thyme is located along Eldama Ravine Road in Westlands. It’s about 7 kilometers from the CBD and 20 kilometers from the airport. Expect a 25 to 40-minute ride depending on traffic.

Area Overview: Westlands is Nairobi’s top dining and nightlife destination. It’s safe, modern, and filled with hotels, malls, and entertainment spots.

6. Seven Seafood & Grill

Located at ABC Place along Waiyaki Way, Seven Seafood & Grill is Nairobi’s premier destination for gourmet seafood and aged steaks. Helmed by celebrity chef Kiran Jethwa, the restaurant is known for its oysters, lobsters, prawns, and fresh fish, sourced both locally and internationally. The steaks are also a highlight, prepared to perfection and served with a variety of sauces.

The décor is contemporary and elegant, featuring ambient lighting, wood accents, and a stylish bar. The wine list is extensive, and the staff is knowledgeable about pairings. Seven is an ideal setting for business lunches, romantic evenings, and special celebrations.

Getting There: Located about 9 kilometers from Nairobi’s CBD, it takes around 30 to 45 minutes from the airport by car. ABC Place is well known and accessible by ride-hailing apps and hotel shuttles.

Area Overview: ABC Place is a modern shopping and business complex in Westlands. It’s secure, upscale, and easily reachable from most parts of the city.

7. Fogo Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse

Fogo Gaucho is one of Nairobi’s most iconic Brazilian steakhouse experiences. Located in the heart of Westlands, this all-you-can-eat restaurant is renowned for its endless servings of meat, served straight from skewers by “passadors” (meat servers) directly at your table. It’s a meat lover’s paradise, offering over 15 cuts of beef, chicken, lamb, and pork, each grilled to perfection and seasoned with Brazilian flair.

The restaurant’s interior is spacious and cozy, with rustic decor and warm lighting that enhances the dining atmosphere. A comprehensive salad bar features a mix of hot and cold dishes, cheeses, vegetables, and Brazilian side options like feijoada and farofa. The service is attentive, and the overall experience is as much a performance as it is a meal.

Fogo Gaucho is perfect for groups, business dinners, celebrations, or anyone looking to indulge in a hearty meal. It’s advisable to come with an appetite and enough time to enjoy the full churrascaria experience.

Getting There: Fogo Gaucho is located at Viking House, along Waiyaki Way in Westlands, just a 20-minute drive from the CBD and approximately 25–40 minutes from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

Area Overview: Westlands is Nairobi’s top nightlife and dining hub. It’s known for its high-end hotels, shopping malls, and international embassies, making it safe and vibrant both day and night.

8. Wasp & Sprout

Wasp & Sprout is a hidden gem nestled in the peaceful neighborhood of Loresho, offering a unique blend of culinary excellence and lifestyle charm. This family-friendly restaurant and concept store is perfect for brunch lovers and those looking for a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by handcrafted furniture and artisan items.

The menu emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with breakfast and brunch items such as avocado toast, eggs Benedict, homemade granola, and specialty pancakes. The coffee is among the best in Nairobi, brewed from locally roasted beans, and served alongside baked pastries and vegan-friendly options.

Wasp & Sprout doubles as a co-working space and art gallery, hosting exhibitions, workshops, and pop-up events throughout the year. It attracts a creative, health-conscious, and community-driven crowd, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists seeking something beyond the ordinary.

Getting There: Located along Old Loresho Road, it’s around 10 kilometers from the CBD. You can take a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Bolt or Uber for a 30-minute drive from the city center.

Area Overview: Loresho is a quiet, green, and upscale residential area. It’s safe and serene, offering a break from the city’s fast pace.

9. Mama Oliech Restaurant

For those looking to experience authentic Kenyan cuisine in an unpretentious setting, Mama Oliech Restaurant is the go-to spot. This locally loved eatery rose to fame thanks to its signature fried tilapia dish, served with ugali and traditional kachumbari salad. It’s a no-frills restaurant that delivers bold flavors and generous portions at an affordable price.

Originally started by Mama Oliech, the restaurant has become a cultural icon, even gaining a visit from former U.S. President Barack Obama. It serves classic Luo and Luhya dishes, with goat stew, beef fry, sukuma wiki, and chapati also making regular appearances on the menu.

Mama Oliech is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Kenyan experience—where locals eat and where hospitality is served with warmth and simplicity. It’s casual, busy, and best enjoyed with an open mind and a healthy appetite.

Getting There: It is located in Kilimani, along Marcus Garvey Road, a popular area only 10 minutes from the CBD and roughly 25 minutes from the airport.

Area Overview: Kilimani is a lively residential and commercial area with shopping malls, apartment complexes, and a growing nightlife. It’s generally safe and well-connected to major roads.

10. Peppercorn Holiday Resort Restaurant

Located slightly off the main tourist trail, Peppercorn Holiday Resort offers a countryside dining experience without leaving Nairobi. Situated in Ruiru, just outside the city, this resort restaurant provides a calm and refreshing environment, perfect for families and travelers looking to relax away from the urban buzz.

The menu is diverse, offering a mix of Kenyan staples and continental cuisine. Their grilled meats, samosas, nyama choma, and pilau are house favorites. The open garden setting and children’s play area make it especially suitable for weekend family outings.

Peppercorn also doubles as an event space, often used for weddings, corporate functions, and team-building activities. The hospitality is warm, and the pace is slower, allowing you to unwind and enjoy a wholesome meal in a more rural ambiance.

Getting There: Peppercorn is located in Ruiru, approximately 25 kilometers from Nairobi’s CBD and 35 kilometers from the airport. It’s accessible by taxi, ride-hailing apps, or private car via Thika Road.

Area Overview: Ruiru is a growing satellite town of Nairobi. Though still semi-urban, it’s connected to the city by well-developed infrastructure and offers scenic landscapes and fresh air—a stark contrast to the city’s fast pace.

Final Thoughts for Travelers

Nairobi is a culinary melting pot where diverse cultures, global flavors, and rich traditions come together on every plate. Whether you’re indulging in nyama choma at Mama Oliech, savoring fire-grilled meats at Fogo Gaucho, or brunching in the artsy atmosphere of Wasp & Sprout, every restaurant in this city tells a story—of heritage, innovation, and the vibrant spirit of Kenya’s capital.

As you explore these top dining spots, remember that food in Nairobi is more than just sustenance—it’s an experience, a celebration, and a gateway to understanding the city’s rhythm. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Ask the locals for recommendations, say yes to street snacks, and take your time soaking in the ambience.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on a romantic escape, or a family looking for memorable meals, Nairobi’s food scene will surprise you with its charm, creativity, and authenticity.

So come hungry—and leave with stories worth sharing.