Best Restaurants in Nairobi To Visit
Every week, we get to listen to the pulse of Nairobi’s dining scene through the voices of real diners. Their excitement, their honest feedback, their “you need to try this place!” recommendations — that’s what guides everything we share at Dinesurf. When our community enjoys a restaurant, we feel it. When they rave about a dish, we can almost taste it. And when they say a spot deserves recognition, we pay attention.
So this list isn’t just another roundup of places to eat in Nairobi. It’s a reflection of the meals, moments, and memories that our diners keep talking about. These are the restaurants that consistently show up in their stories — the ones that welcomed them warmly, served them beautifully, and left an impression strong enough to be shared over and over again.
Here are the top 10 restaurants in Nairobi, handpicked through the lived experiences of our Dinesurf community.
1. Inca Restaurant
Inca Restaurant is a consistent favourite among our Dinesurf diners, especially for those who love calm, elevated spaces. Guests often highlight the 5th-floor rooftop views overlooking James Gichuru Road, with one diner saying, “The views alone are worth the visit.”
The ambiance gets just as much praise — mature, relaxed, and perfect for date nights or quiet catch-ups.
Portions are described as well-balanced, making it a great choice for a full meal that doesn’t feel overwhelming. Diners also enjoy the weekly events and happy hour specials, which add a nice touch without crowding the experience.
Service is another strong point. Our users frequently mention the friendly, attentive staff. And many appreciate the smoke-free environment since electronic cigarettes aren’t allowed.
Overall, Inca keeps showing up in diner conversations because it offers exactly what our community values: good food, peaceful ambiance, and thoughtful service.
What Dinesurf Diners Are Saying
Situated on the 5th floor, you get a good view of James Gichuru Road and parts of Nairobi. The ambience is chilled, grown and mature which is perfect for a girls date or catch up with friends. You can have conversations which is a plus. The food (I would recommend the platter) is delicious and they have yummy drinks.
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2. Mawimbi Seafood Restaurant & Cafè
Dinesurf diners love Mawimbi for bringing the best of Nairobi’s seafood right to the table. Nestled on the corner of Harry Thuku Road and Kijabe Street, this fine dining spot is perfect for everything from a leisurely lunch to an intimate dinner or a private gathering. “The seafood is fresh, delicious and abundant.” shares one regular, while another says, “Well worth visiting if you fancy some seafood done stylishly.” With each dish, Mawimbi captures the true taste, spirit, and tradition of Nairobi’s finest seafood cuisine, making it a go-to for both special occasions and everyday indulgence.
What Dinesurf Diners Are Saying
Finally got around to visiting this well-known seafood restaurant in Nairobi. The waiting staff are very good and attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. The layout is unusual but pleasant and the ambience is nice. A good place to spend with friends or a date. I got the kabai fish (grouper) and it was pretty good and came with a pleasant creamy sauce and plenty of vegetables, along with a side dish of rice. Well worth visiting if you fancy some seafood done stylishly.
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3. Meko Restaurant
Another favorite among Dinesurf Diners is Meko where every meal is turned into a memorable experience. One of the highlights of this restaurant is the charm of the open kitchen where you can see every artisanal technique unfold. The raw bar is another crowd favorite—fresh seafood is always just a plate away.
Meko’s breakfast is made to order: select your favorite ingredients, and the chefs craft each dish right before your eyes. By night, the restaurant transforms into a Mediterranean and Aegean retreat. Diners appreciate how the menu brings flavors from Spain, Greece, and Lebanon to life with wholesome grains, fresh vegetables, herbs, spices, and fish. “Food and service is world class,” shares another guest, making it clear why Meko is ideal for everything from a casual brunch to an elegant dinner.
What Dinesurf Diners Are Saying
I had a wonderful dining experience at Meko. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and every dish was beautifully prepared with fresh ingredients and great attention to detail. What made the evening truly exceptional was the service. Julius, our waiter, was attentive, friendly and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu. He made thoughtful recommendations and checked in at just the right moments, adding a personal touch that elevated the whole experience.
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4. Ora Cafe
Tucked away from the city’s bustle, ORA CAFE is quickly becoming a favorite among Nairobi’s café enthusiasts. Dinesurf diners love its serene minimalist design, blending modern, organic, and Japandi influences, creating a space that feels both stylish and welcoming.
The pastries are a particular crowd favorite. Patrons rave about the pistachio croissant: “Hands down the best croissant I’ve had in Nairobi!” For brunch lovers, the Dolce French Toast and Avocado Toast with perfectly poached eggs are often described as “Instagram-worthy and delicious—feels like a café in London.”
Drinks here are just as memorable. The iced matcha comes highly recommended: “Refreshing, smooth, and the perfect pick-me-up.” ORA CAFE also makes sure everyone feels welcome with a Halal menu, making it an inclusive spot for casual meet-ups, weekend brunches, or simply treating yourself to something special.
What Dinesurf Diners Are Saying
Ora decor is eye-catching and relaxing. A minimalist modern with organic and Japandi influences. The pastries are really nice. I recommend the pistachio croissant. It has inside seating and outside shaded patio seating.
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5. Jiko Restaurant
If you’re looking for a spot where African flavors come alive, Jiko is a must-visit. Dinesurf diners love it for its creative yet familiar menu. Drawing on age-old cooking methods and ingredients from across Africa, Jiko strikes the perfect balance between discovery and comfort.
The vibe is informal, social, and full of energy. “The combination of amazing service, delicious food, and genuine hospitality makes it a place I’ll definitely return to” says another diner. Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or a relaxed late lunch, Jiko delivers a five-star experience in a lively, welcoming setting.
What Dinesurf Diners Are Saying
I've never had an excellent experience across the board. The service was excellent, we were so well taken care of. The cocktails were fantastic, delicious and beautifully made. The food was superb. The atmosphere was amazing. Victor did a wonderful job, absolutely delicious. 10/10 I absolutely recommend.
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6. Fasic Chinese Restaurant
Dinesurf diners can’t stop talking about Fasic Chinese Restaurant, Nairobi’s spot for authentic Chinese flavors that hit every craving. Since opening in 2024, guests have been sharing how the dim sum, noodle bowls, and sizzling stir-fries make every meal feel like a mini culinary adventure. “ it was some of the best Chinese food I've eaten in YEARS and quite possibly the best I've had outside of China” says one regular.
Guests also appreciate the restaurant’s lively, street-market-inspired ambiance. Others recommend it for family outings, weekend brunches, or dinner dates.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite, planning a cozy dinner, or celebrating a special occasion, Fasic delivers a culinary journey that feels genuine, memorable, and truly flavorful.
What Dinesurf Diners Are Saying
We had an amazing experience; the food was delicious with generous portions. Nice ambiance, the service top notch! Roselyn was so kind and knowledgeable, she gave us very nice food suggestions as it was our first time trying Chinese cuisine. Would definitely recommend it.
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7. Matteo’s Italian Restaurant
Dinesurf diners can’t stop raving about Matteo’s. “My go to is always the risotto and pizza to start with, not to mention the perfect Aperol Spritz to start with,” says one foodie. From casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations, Matteo’s hits the mark for every occasion.
The menu is a love letter to Italy, featuring fresh, authentic dishes that satisfy all tastes. Whether you’re craving creamy pastas, wood-fired pizzas, succulent seafood, or hearty meat plates, there’s something for everyone. Vegetarians are never left out, and the team is always ready to accommodate dietary needs.
It’s not just the food that keeps diners coming back. “The outdoor seating is surrounded by beautiful greenery and flowers, creating such a calm and inviting atmosphere.,” notes a regular, highlighting how Matteo’s turns any meal into a memorable experience. Perfect for date nights, family gatherings, or a relaxed dinner with friends, Matteo’s combines flavor, authenticity, and care in every dish.
What Dinesurf Diners Are Saying
Matteo Italian restaurant is a jewel in the heart of Karen, Nairobi. One of the best customer service I have ever experienced in my travels around the world evidenced by wonderful staff eager to serve. Great food with fair prices. Highly recommended and will be back.
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8. MYNA
Step into
MYNA Restaurant at the JW Marriott, and you’ll quickly see why diners keep coming back. Known for blending refined elegance with a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, it’s a spot where every meal feels thoughtfully curated. From attentive, professional service to a menu full of flavorful highlights, MYNA creates moments that diners remember long after the meal is over. Food is consistently praised, with many describing the dishes as “amazing” and “full of flavor.” The buffet, in particular, stands out as a crowd favorite, perfect for trying a variety of options in one meal. Drinks get high marks too, with Prosecco being a go-to for those looking to toast a special occasion.
MYNA Restaurant is repeatedly mentioned by diners as a reason Nairobi remains a top culinary destination.
What Dinesurf Diners Are Saying
Amazing breakfast. Made me look forward to waking up during my stay at the Marriott.
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9. Lavy Restaurant
Lavy Restaurant has quickly become a favorite among diners looking for more than just a meal. Dinesurf diners love the effortless blend of welcoming charm and stylish elegance, where every corner is spotless and every note of music feels just right. It’s the kind of place where great food meets thoughtful service, making every visit feel both special and relaxed. Food is at the center of the Lavy experience, with generous portions that delight both the eyes and the palate. One diner note, “Every dish feels like it was made just for me.”
For those looking to end the day on a high note, Lavy’s happy hour adds a cheerful touch to the evening, making it a favorite spot for after-work drinks or catching up with friends.
What Dinesurf Diners Are Saying
Lavy Restaurant Through My Lens.
Soft music, clean corners, and calm energy felt like a hug in restaurant form.
The BBQ wings? Chef’s kiss. We loved them so much, we packed some to go.
Service? Impeccable. Our waitress was sweet, helpful, and so patient.
It’s a yes from me. A 10/10 Experience!!
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10. Artisan Blend Cafe
Artisan Blend Cafe has quickly become a favorite among Dinesurf diners for its calm, welcoming vibe. Perfect for a casual brunch date, coffee meet-up, or small group gathering, it’s a spot people keep returning to. One diner shared, “the mushroom soup starter was mind-blowing.” while another said, “The decor is stunning—makes the whole experience feel special.” Many visitors also highlight the service: “ the service was quick and the waiters were kind.” With a menu that continues to evolve based on feedback from guests, Artisan Blend Cafe consistently delivers a satisfying experience. As one regular puts it, “Every visit leaves me wanting to come back again!”
What Dinesurf Diners Are Saying
It was a nice place, if you are looking for a cool place to grab pocket friendly and not compromising on quality, this is the place.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are restaurants in Nairobi open on Sundays?
A: Yes, most are. Some close Mondays instead. Always check Google or call ahead.
Q: How much should I tip?
A: 10% is standard for good service. Some places add service charge—check your bill first.
Q: What’s the dress code for restaurants in Nairobi?
A: Most places are smart casual. High-end spots might require no shorts/flip-flops, but Nairobi’s generally relaxed.
Q: How’s parking?
A: Varies wildly. Westlands and Karen have decent parking. CBD is tough—consider Uber.
Q: Do they accommodate dietary restrictions?
A: Yes! Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are increasingly common. Just ask your server.
About Dinesurf
Dinesurf is your trusted companion for discovering the best dining experiences across Africa. Our team is dedicated to analyzing thousands of online reviews and ratings from diners to curate the most comprehensive and reliable restaurant guides. This particular guide on dining in Menlyn, South Africa was meticulously put together after extensive research and review analysis, ensuring you have the most accurate information at your fingertips.
But our work doesn’t stop there. Dinesurf’s platform extends beyond Menlyn and covers cities and suburbs across the entire African continent. We strive to help food enthusiasts discover hidden gems, popular eateries, and new culinary adventures, no matter where they are. With Dinesurf, you can explore a wide array of restaurants that cater to all kinds of tastes, preferences, and budgets.
Our mission is to transform your dining experience by providing the insights you need to make informed decisions about where to eat. Whether you’re planning a dinner date, a family outing, or a solo gastronomical journey, Dinesurf is here to guide you every step of the way. We invite you to join us on this exciting culinary exploration and discover the diverse flavors of Africa with Dinesurf.
Conclusion
Nairobi’s restaurant scene is full of memorable meals and standout experiences. From casual cafes to fine dining, Dinesurf diners keep saying things like, “This list never disappoints!” and “Every spot is a must-visit.” Brunches, dinners, and group outings all find the perfect match among these ten restaurants, thanks to their taste, service, and atmosphere. As one guest puts it, “Exploring them all was such a treat—I’ll be back for more!”
