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Restaurants
the 7Best Restaurants in Nairobi
Nairobi, the vibrant capital of Kenya, is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife but also for its diverse and exciting culinary scene. From traditional Kenyan flavors to international gourmet experiences, the city offers a unique blend of tastes, atmospheres, and dining experiences for food lovers.
Whether you’re looking for an authentic nyama choma experience, fresh seafood delicacies, or fine dining in a charming garden setting, Nairobi’s top restaurants cater to every craving. Our selection of the 7Best Restaurants showcases the finest places where you can indulge in outstanding food, excellent service, and unforgettable moments.
Explore Nairobi’s best dining spots and discover where to find the most delicious dishes, from local favorites to international cuisine!
Carnivore Restaurant (3\7 in meat criteria )
The Carnivore is an iconic open-air restaurant in Nairobi, renowned for its „all-you-can-eat“ meat buffet. Diners can enjoy a variety of meats, including beef, pork, lamb, chicken, as well as farmed ostrich and crocodile. The meats are traditionally roasted on Maasai swords over a large charcoal pit and carved directly at the table, offering a unique and memorable dining experience.
Restaurant Review: Carnivore- An all you can eat experience.
On the 19th of February, I decided to visit the famous Carnivore restaurant in Nairobi for dinner. If you’re planning to go, I highly recommend making a reservation in advance the place is usually packed.
1. Customer service- 7\10 I felt abit rushed during the dining experience, and unfortunately, no one explained how the flag system worked. AS a result, I felt a little left out and unsure of what to do, especially as a first-timer guest. Some extra guidance would have gone a long way.
2.Aesthetic- 10\10 The ambience and the decor of the restaurant are absolutely stunning. The setup is warm, rustic, and immerse, fitting perfectly with the African themed dining experience.
3.Service at the bar- 11\10 The bar service was exceptional. The staff were friendly, engaging, and very attentive. It was the highlight of the evening in terms of hospitality.
Overall Rating; 7\10
Despite a few issues with the table service, I truly enjoyed the experience. The food, atmosphere, and especially the bar service made it a memorable evening.
Langata Road
Nairobi, Kenya
+254 722 204647
info@tamarind.co.ke
tamarind.co.ke/carnivore/Opening Hours
Mon – Sun: 12:00 – 23:00h
Bun&Beef (4\7 in burger criteria)
Restaraunt review: Bun&Beef- A burger experience to remember
If youre for a place that delivers mouthwatering burgers, crispy fries, and quality service look no further than Bun&Beef, located at Village Market. I recently had the chance of visiting, and here is my full experience:
1.Customer Service-8\10 The staff were really friendly and attentive, ensuring orders were taken efficiently and with a smile. You feel welcomed the moment you walk in
2. Ambience- 6/10 While the environment was decent, there is room for improvement in terms of the atmosphere. It was functional but could be more vibrant or cozy to enhance the dining experience.
3.FOOD; ~Fries- 11\10 Absolutely the star of the show. I ordered the classic fries, and they were crispy, perfectly seasoned, and beyond satisfying. Highly recommended. ~Burger- 7\10 I tried the Sweet Raspberry Chicken Burger. While the flavor combination was unique and interesting, it turned out to be abit too spicy for my personal taste. if you are not into spicy food, be sure to ask for the spice level for a certain burger. ~Sauce- 8\10 The ranch was creamy rich and a perfect dip for both fries and the burger. It added a nice balance for the meal. ~Drink-10\10 I had the pineapple drink mixed with a bit of mint with really elevated the flavor.
Overall Experience: Bun&Beef delivers when it comes to quality food and fast service. It’s a solid choice for burger lovers, especially if you’re craving something flavorful and sweet. Just be sure to check the spice level if you are too sensitive to heat!
LOCATION: Village Market
Recommendation: 100% recommended foe a casual lunch or dinner.
Smokys Restaurant
Smokys Restaurant is a popular restaurant in Nairobi, celebrated for its modern twist on amazing meat cuisines in Kenya. The establishment offered a unique dining experience, blending local flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. Dishes ranged from Lamb, Pork, Beef, Burgers, all served in a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.
Restaurant Review- Smokys Restaurant Explosion of meat flavors in Nairobi.
If you are looking for a vibrant place to relieve your cravings for different type of meats smokys got you covered.
1. Customer Service~ 10\10 The customer service there doesn’t know how to waste time or play around with the customers they were on me from the moment I walked in and made me feel welcomed.
2. Ambience~ 12\10 To be honest so far out of all the restaurants I’ve been too so far this has over done itself when it comes to decoration. It has a cowboy theme to it since its main character animal is basically the bull they have given off the theme as it’s supposed to be. Plus, theme art works chosen are just superb.
Food~ 7\10
Fries Honestly, they were abit mid for me and also too oily they weren’t well fried towards the end
Lamb chops Now this the only reason i went because of the overhyped meat over there . From the social media posts, they showcased their different meat and delicacies which caught my eye and i had to try them. I initially wanted the pork chops but i was informed it was out of stock at the moment, so they suggested the lamb chops. So, I tried them out honest it had an amazing taste and savor towards it but what threw me off was how hard the meat was it was tuff and that didn’t impress me at all. Thats what has made me give it such low score.
Overall Experience~ 7.5\10
Smokys delivered quite well when it came to the services and ambience but for the food was abit disappointing if the meat was abit soft it would have been amazing may the restaurant check on that kindly. But overall I had a good time.
Bang Bang (2\7 in thailand food criteria)
Restaurant Review- BangBang – Thai Cuisine Explosion in Nairobi
If you are looking for authentic Thai cuisine in Nairobi, BangBang Restaurant, located in Village Market, is a must visit. True to its name everything here hits with flavor and satisfaction a true bang bang of taste and quality!
1. Customer service~ 11\10 From the moment I stepped in, the hospitality stood out. The staff were friendly, quick to assist, and genuinely welcoming. They made the entire experience feel personal and enjoyable.
2. Ambience- 10\10 The setting was beautifully done, offering a relaxing, clean, and cozy space that elevated the dining experience. It’s perfect for both solo visits and lunch dates.
3. FOOD~ 10\10 Although I didn’t sample a wide range of dishes, the one I tried was absolutely finger-licking good. The flavors were rich, authentic, and perfectly balanced. Portion sizes were generous, and the price point was surprisingly affordable.
Overall Experience:
BangBang delivers both in quality and value. Whether you’re a Thai food enthusiast or just looking for something new and flavorful, this spot won’t disappoint. It’s one of those places youll want to return to- and bring friends along
Location: Village Market, Nairobi Recommendation: 100% recommended- especially for Thai food lovers looking for quality, quantity, and a cozy ambience
About Thyme
About Thyme is a tranquil restaurant located in the heart of Westlands, Nairobi. Established in 2005, it offers an eclectic menu with imaginative and well-prepared dishes inspired from around the world. The restaurant is known for its leafy green surroundings, providing a serene garden setting with secret nooks and hidden crannies. In the evenings, fairy lights, candles, and charcoal braziers create a warm and romantic atmosphere. About Thyme
Eldama Ravine Road, Nairobi, Kenya+254 721 850026hello@about-thyme.comhttps://about-thyme.com/
Opening Hours
Mon: closed
Tue – Fri: 12:00 – 23:00h
Sat: 10:00 – 23:00h
Sun: 10:00 – 19:00
Notes
Brunch is served from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays. The kitchen closes at 10:00 PM (6:00 PM on Sundays), with last orders for the bar at 10:30 PM (6:30 PM on Sundays).
Mama Oliech
Mama Oliech’s Restaurant is a renowned establishment in Nairobi, celebrated for its authentic Kenyan cuisine, particularly its exceptional fish dishes. The restaurant gained international attention when Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg dined there during his visit to Kenya. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, with a focus on fresh fish from Lake Victoria, prepared either fried or in a savory stew, accompanied by staples like ugali and kachumbari. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, making it a favorite among locals and tourists seeking a genuine Kenyan dining experience.
Mama Oliech
Marcus Garvey Road, Nairobi, Kenya+254 723 925604–
Opening Hours
Mon – Sun: 10:30 – 23:30h
Seven Seafood & Grill
Seven Seafood & Grill is Nairobi’s premier seafood and steak destination, offering a sumptuous selection of the finest Indian Ocean seafood and grass-fed Angus/Borana steaks. The restaurant provides a modern, contemporary, and fun atmosphere, delivering service of the highest quality. A mouth-watering array of oysters, lobsters, prawns, and ocean fish are delivered daily, freshly prepared, and accompanied by Seven’s signature sauces. Meat lovers are also well catered for with Kenya’s finest beef, carefully aged and butchered in-house. ABC Place, Waiyaki Way, Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya
+254 737 776677reservations@experienceseven.comexperienceseven.comOpening Hours
Mon – Sun: 11:00 – 00:
Nairobi’s dining scene is a fusion of rich flavors, cultural diversity, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you are a local foodie or a visitor looking to explore the city’s gastronomic delights, these 7Best Restaurants offer something special for everyone.
From fresh seafood and authentic Kenyan dishes to international gourmet cuisine, each restaurant on our list stands out for its quality, ambiance, and outstanding service. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Nairobi!
Do you have a favorite restaurant in Nairobi that we should feature?
BIG SQUARE ( 2/7 fast food criteria)
Big square is among the lucrative restaurants that’s have expanded its branches all over the city in Nairobi. And now i understand why after visiting some of their many branches namely the one in Nairobi cbd the Moi Avenue branch and the one at garden city my personal favorite was MOI AVENUE location. Let’s get on it.
Big square restaurant review.
Customer service~ 12\10
Honestly speaking among all the restaurants I have been in this has to be the one that has always stole my heart from the door when you are well welcomed by the guard to when the waiters follow you to hand you your menu. Their customer service never disappoints.
food~ 10\10
Their food options also never disappoint. You are usually informed of how long the food will take. when it finally arrives its usually so mouthwatering definitely worth all the pennies used. And definitely try out their sauces with their food.
Ambience~ 10\10
The location is usually well lit and the music played is so soothing not too loud to irritate or too low leaving you to question the essence of the music in the first place, it’s just at the right volume. i would recommend visiting at night and enjoy the lights in the restaurant just superb!
Cost is highly affordable and also has kids‘ choice meals
2nd MEAL AT BIG SQUARE
Once again i went to dine at big square at as usual I wasn’t disappointed at all. I had the famous pork ribs and fries
Food review:
Fries ~ 10/10 AS usual the fries were well seasoned and crispy as expected
Pork ribs~ 12/10 I’m absolutely hooked on BIG SQUARES pork dish- it’s one of my favorites! The pork is always cooked to perfection, tender and soft when cutting and chewing. The flavor is truly unforgettable. Big Square has a way of winning you over with culinary skills, and I’m more than happy to have tried a second dish here.
OVERVIEW; 10\10
Still maintained a perfect record
ARGYLE HOTEL
I recently decided to visit Argyle hotel located in Mombasa Road for some lunch and a drink. The hotel is mostly an accommodation facility where many tourists go to stay there for their vacations in Kenya since the airport is like a 10 minutes‘ drive from there. I was only able to try their food and not the accomodation and here is my review on it.
The menu had a variety of food options but the one which was most outstanding was the indian cuisines which had their own pages then the rest of the food dishes. I order the pork ribs which came with a side of fries and broccoli salad, also ordered a simple wing which came with a side of fries and salad.
The ambience of the hotel;
The ambience was truly serene, with great music that set the tone for a fantastic meal and time over there.
Here is my review on the food.
The pork dish~
The food was delicious, with standout dishes that impressed us. The pork with its rich flavorful sauce was a highlight, earning a solid 11/10! The combination of the tender pork and savory sauce was absolute perfection.
The wings dish~
The chicken wings were tasty, but didn’t quite reach the same level as the pork, scoring a respectable 6.5\10.
The fries~
The fries served on both dishes were crispy and addictive, scoring an 8.6\10 they just need to be abit well-seasoned
The service~
The service was top-notch- our server was attentive, friendly, and made sure we had everything needed 10/10 customer service experience.
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