This family-run Indian BBQ joint is located within Nairobi’s ever-popular mall, Nakumatt Ukay. Hashmi’s boasts a divine take on Indian BBQ with must-try dishes including the chooza chicken with sauce, the fish tikka eaten with fiery poussin chips, and the khima chapatti served with a generous helping of garden salad. The food is deliciously spicy and not recommended for the fainthearted. With simple interiors and affordable dishes, it’s no surprise that Hashmi’s is always heaving. Expect queues during weekends.
Hashmi BBQ, Nakumatt Ukay Shopping Complex, Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya, +254 (0)722 487 000
Located in picturesque Karen, home to the sought-after Kitengela glass-blowers and local wildlife park, Tamarind cooks up the best in Kenyan seafood. The menu is continental and offers an extensive selection of seafood and meat dishes. Local favorites include deep-fried crab claws and garlic jumbo prawns. The elegant and serene space is inviting and perfect for sampling a cold glass of a South African sauvignon blanc. Don’t be put off if you’re not a fan of seafood, Tamarind’s vegetarian and meat selection are widely recognized as being equally exceptional.
Tamarind, Karen Blixen Coffee Garden, Karen Road, Nairobi, Kenya, +254 (0)733 603 605
Take ex-Nahm chef, Morten Bojstrup Nielsen, and Nairobi’s new boutique hotel, Dusit D2, and you have Nairobi’s most refined Thai offering. Soi prides itself on its unique tribute to the authentic Thai. You’ll fine superb dishes such as slow-cooked ribs in aromatic green curry, and passion fruit panna cotta with lychee marshmallow. Located in the posh Riverside, the innovative food served is at the forefront of Nairobi’s fine dining scene.
Soi at Dusit D2, 4 Riverside, off Riverside Drive, Nairobi 41596, Kenya, +254 (0)20 423 3000
Grilled Kenyan Angus beef and seafood off the Mombasa Coastline are the order of the day at Tatu Steakhouse. A beautiful contrast to the historic setting of the Fairmont Norfolk Hotel in which it is based, the open-plan kitchen and minimalist African decor create a contemporary stage for its food. With its newly opened patio, the Kenyan sunshine is the best way to enjoy Tatu’s specialty ostrich steak cooked medium rare with chunky fries and a cold Tusker beer. Alternatively, the cocktail a delicious alternative anytime of the day.
Tatu at Fairmont Norfolk, Harry Thuku Rd, CBD, Nairobi, Kenya +254 (0)711 222 222
J’s Fresh Bar pays homage to the British gastropub. Situated in Ngong, it has got local foodies talking excitedly over the beautifully executed smoked paprika scotch eggs, battered fish and chips and Szechuan-peppered squid with roasted garlic aioli. Decorated with minimalist wooden interiors and colored Kenyan Kitengela glass, the atmosphere is laid back and cozy. Sit by the bar and let the barman work his magic to the smooth backdrop of J’s Fresh Bar’s in-house DJ.
J’s Fresh Bar, Ngong Road, Nairobi, Kenya, +254 (0)703 576 680
It’s all about biryani and mithai’s at AA Mithaiwalla, one of Nairobi’s few long-standing culinary establishments. Founded over 50 years ago by Abdulahi Alibhai Mithaiwalla, his son, Shabir takes pride in continuing the family legacy. This is a welcoming eatery loved by the locals in Pangani for its array of affordable sweet and savory Indian treats. Favorites like lamb biryani and malai ka khaja offer up a taste of traditional Mughlai cuisine preserved by the founder’s own Indian heritage. This quaint hot spot, ten minutes from the CBD, is best for impromptu takeaways and casual dining.
AA Mithaiwalla, Pangani Shopping Center, Ngara, Nairobi, Kenya, +254 (0)720 129 873
