One of my favorite things ever is cute coffee shops and nice places to relax and eat. During my multiple visits to Nairobi, finding the perfect cafe to work from, the nicest rooftop bars, and the tastiest restaurants presented a bit of a challenge at times. I knew they were out there, but finding the resources to locate them was a challenge. So here is a list of my favorite places to eat and drink in Nairobi.
1. River Cafe – Karura Forest
Perhaps my favorite café in Kenya and among my favorite cafes from around the world, River Café is a very special place. Tucked away in the beautiful Karura forest in Nairobi, you can grab a coffee, eat a full meal, and just relax to the sound of birds chirping and to the sight of beautiful foliage. During the week it is usually quiet but on the weekends can get extremely busy due to the many bicyclers, hikers, and runners stopping for a continuation of their weekend activities. Although a truly lovely place, the Wi-Fi is a bit weak so it may be hard to work from there if you were considering it.
View the full post on Karura forest here: KARURA FOREST – NATURE TRAILS, ORANGE WATERFALLS, AND CAFE | NAIROBI, KENYA
2. Honey & Dough
Few people will leave disappointed from Honey & Dough. Whether you come for lunch or dinner, the food will always be delicious and the atmosphere is unmatched. Unique and beautiful décor and fresh air blowing through the open windows with a beautiful view of Nairobi. Make sure to reserve one of the restaurant’s 4 “nests” in advance if you want a cozy meal in the cute corner nook.
3. Artcaffe
Although I’m not usually a big fan of chain restaurants, Artcaffe is an exception. It is a symbol of quality and you can be assured delicious food, good service, and reliable Wi-Fi. Located all throughout the city, the atmosphere is fancy and casual at the same time. Be sure to try their Dawa, a traditional Kenya tea made with ginger, honey, and lemon! It comes hot, iced, or alcoholic.
4. Le Grenier a Pain
If you’re looking for the best pastries in Nairobi, search no more! The croissants and delicious French pastries of Le Grenier a Pain are unmatched! Filled with expats and business people working, it’s a great place to spend a few hours and delight in the countless goodies that they have to offer.
5. Talisman
East African and Colonial décor mesh in this historical house turned restaurant. With both outdoor and indoor seating, fireplaces, and a fully stocked bar, Talisman Restaurant is the place to be in Nairobi’s Karen suburb. Many of the restaurant’s artwork is from local artists who occasionally also appear during the evenings. As it is extremely popular with the upper class Nairobians and expats, consider booking a table in advance!
6. Boho Eatery
Rustic garden vibes are the signature of Boho Eatery located in Karen, Nairobi. Part of the Ngong House lodge, this eatery will certainly impress. A retro food truck, flower adorned swings, exquisite vegetable bowls, and more, you must visit at least once! Although it was a bit far from where I was staying in Nairobi, I gladly drove over an hour just to work and relax from this adorable place.
7. Wasp & Sprout
Certainly a hidden treasure, Wasp & Sprout was among my most favorite cafes in Nairobi. Located in the very back of a shopping center, the outside is quiet unimpressive. But once you walk into the café, you’ll be embraced by a beautiful gem of local artwork, handmade and local house goods, and delicious, healthy food. I wish I had found this place sooner than my last week in the city! I would have spent many days working from this amazing place.
8. Harvest
Connected to the beautiful Trademark Hotel and located within Village Market, Harvest is a beautiful and modern little haven to take a meal break. If you’re looking for Asian food consider their sister restaurant a few floors up!
9. About Thyme
Strewn with fairy lights and offering countless delectable dishes, About Thyme is certainly a hidden gem. Perfect for a celebratory dinner or a romantic evening. On certain days they also have live music from local musicians.
10. C.J.’s
Although I’ve only even just gotten a coffee at this tropical looking café, C.J’s, in the middle of Village Market, the place is just too beautiful to pass up! The perfect place to grab a coffee or for a mid-day business luncheon.
11. Copper
I spent my last evening out in Nairobi visiting the Copper Restaurant, which is a part of The Social House. They have multiple options of places to eat and a rooftop bar for after dinner drinks. Although a very small place, it was a joy to watch the chefs cook through the glass windows of the kitchen and the food was quite impressive!
12. Inti
Last, but most certainly not least, is INTI, by far the best bar in Nairobi. Skyline views of the city, modern décor, the best possibly staff, and quality drinks, this was one of my absolute favorite places to go in Nairobi. When you go make sure to see if Clements is there to make his famously delicious basil drink!
Nairobi is a wonderful city full of amazing places. If you’re looking for fun things to do in the city (besides eating and drinking) check out this post here: TOP 15 THINGS TO DO IN NAIROBI, KENYA | HUB OF EAST AFRICA and for Kenya tips in general, check out our Kenya page!
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters