Top 6 Places to Eat in Nairobi

Written by Andreas Keller, Harry Mboya
10/08/2025
Breathtaking view of Nairobi's skyline during twilight, showcasing vibrant city lights.
Ken Mwaura, Pexels

Nairobi's culinary landscape offers a dynamic blend of traditional Kenyan flavors and diverse international cuisines, catering to discerning food enthusiasts, families, and couples alike. The city's restaurants frequently embrace a farm-to-table philosophy, utilizing fresh, local ingredients.

1. Talisman Restaurant

Cuisine: Global Fusion (with South Asian influences)

Nestled in the leafy Karen suburb, Talisman is an elegant gastropub set within a historic colonial home, exuding a warm ambiance with its lush gardens, fireplaces, and eclectic decor. It is popular with both locals and expatriates, known for its creative menu that includes delightful feta and coriander samosas and ginger teriyaki tofu. The restaurant offers a versatile setting, perfect for a romantic dinner or a relaxed family meal.

Price: KES 3,000 - 6,000+ / USD 22 - 45+ per person

Getting There: Located in Karen, approximately 15 km from Westlands. A taxi or ride-sharing service (such as Uber or Bolt) from Westlands typically costs KES 1,400 - 2,000 (approximately USD 10-15) and takes 18-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

2. Jiko Restaurant

Cuisine: African Fusion

Situated within the luxurious Tribe Hotel in Gigiri, Jiko offers a sophisticated dining experience focused on creative African fusion cuisine. The restaurant features an open-concept kitchen, emphasizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to craft dishes that tell a story of the continent's rich culinary heritage. Its intimate, candlelit setting makes it a recommended spot for romantic dinners.

Price: KES 4,000 - 8,000+ / USD 30 - 60+ per person

Getting There: Found in Gigiri, about 8-10 km from Westlands. A taxi or ride-sharing service from Westlands costs around KES 450 - 850 (approximately USD 3-6) and takes 9-17 minutes.

3. About Thyme Restaurant

Cuisine: European, International

About Thyme is a tranquil and picturesque dining spot in Westlands, offering a serene garden setting ideal for al fresco meals. It has earned a reputation for its imaginative and consistent dishes, drawing inspiration from global cuisines. Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, with hidden tables illuminated by fairy lights creating a romantic ambiance for evenings, and an extensive brunch menu on weekends.

Price: KES 2,000 - 5,000 / USD 15 - 37 per person

Getting There: Located in Westlands. Depending on your starting point within Westlands, it may be a short walk or a brief taxi/ride-sharing trip (under KES 500 / USD 4).

4. Mama Oliech Restaurant

Cuisine: Authentic Kenyan

Mama Oliech is a highly popular, family-run eatery, particularly renowned for its perfectly fried Tilapia. It gained significant local fame after being visited by former President Barack Obama. This restaurant provides an authentic taste of Kenyan cuisine, often serving the fresh fish with traditional accompaniments like Ugali and local greens such as Sukuma Wiki.

Price: KES 500 - 1,500 / USD 4 - 11 per person

Getting There: Located on Marcus Garvey Road in Kilimani. A taxi or ride-sharing service from Westlands typically costs KES 300 - 600 (approximately USD 2-5).

5. CJ's

Cuisine: Diverse International (African, American, Asian, Italian, Mexican, etc.)

With locations in Nairobi CBD and Kilimani, CJ's is a versatile restaurant known for its extensive menu featuring over 300 items, catering to a wide range of tastes. The spacious interior boasts striking decor and ample natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere. It is praised for its generous portions, good quality food, and efficient service, making it suitable for casual meals, family outings, and even business lunches.

Price: KES 500 - 2,000 / USD 4 - 15 per person

Getting There: CJ's CBD location is easily accessible by walking or a very short taxi ride from most central areas. From Westlands, a taxi or ride-sharing service to the CBD costs approximately KES 900 - 1,600 (approximately USD 7-12) and takes around 3-5 minutes.

6. Haandi Restaurant

Cuisine: Authentic Indian

Haandi stands as one of Nairobi's most celebrated Indian restaurants, cherished for its authentic flavors and consistent quality. The menu showcases rich, aromatic Indian cuisine, including classic curries, various tandoori specialties, and a wide array of vegetarian options. Its welcoming ambiance and attentive service contribute to a satisfying dining experience in the heart of the city.

Price: KES 1,500 - 4,000 / USD 11 - 30 per person

Getting There: Located in Westlands (some sources indicate a CBD presence, but Westlands is prominent). If in Westlands, it may be walkable or a very short taxi ride. If coming from the CBD, a taxi or ride-sharing service would be a brief journey.

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