What to Eat in Nairobi: A Food Guide

What to eat in Nairobi

• Nyama choma (grilled meat)

  Kenyatta Market local + Carnivore Langata tourist classic — KES500–3,000.

• Ugali + sukuma wiki + tilapia

  Kenyan staple — Talisman (Karen) + Mama Oliech + local canteens KES400–1,200.

• Chapati + beef stew + pilau

  Swahili-Kenyan comfort food — KES500–800 at local restaurants.

• Kenyan coffee + Kenyan tea

  Java House + Artcaffé + Connect Coffee — KES200–400 per cup.

What to drink

Bottled water only. Tusker lager is national beer. Dawa (vodka + honey + lime) is signature cocktail. Kenyan AA coffee + purple tea + chai masala classic. Best coffee at Connect + Vermont + Point Zero.

Dining etiquette and practicalities

• Tipping 10% at restaurants + KES200–500 per bag for porters + US$10–15 per day for safari guides.

• Learn 'jambo' (hello) + 'asante' (thank you) — Swahili greetings appreciated.

• Never photograph government buildings, military, or people without asking.

Where to eat in Nairobi

• Karen

  Leafy colonial suburb — Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage — Hemingways Nairobi, Giraffe Manor, House of Waine.

• Westlands / Parklands

  Restaurants, nightlife, shopping — Sankara Nairobi, Villa Rosa Kempinski, Trademark Hotel.

• Kilimani / Upper Hill

  Business district + embassies — Radisson Blu Upper Hill, Fairmont Norfolk, DusitD2.

• Gigiri / Runda

  UN + diplomatic zone, safest at night — Tribe Hotel, Trademark Hotel Village Market.