The Best Bars In Mombasa, Kenya

The waterfront of the old dhow harbour in Mombasa
The waterfront of the old dhow harbour in Mombasa | © John Warburton-Lee Photography _ Alamy Stock Photo
Corlena Bailey

The vivacious tourist capital of Kenya, Mombasa, certainly knows how to ‘turn the heat up’ when it comes to entertaining visitors who are true bar veterans, as well as those newbies who are looking to have a great time. Read further and you will discover awesome bars you must visit in Mombasa.

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Bob’s Bar

Nicknamed the ‘Quench Bench’, Bob’s Bar is ideal for anyone looking for a place to have a cold drink in a party atmosphere. The open-air sports bar boasts two large bar sections that are fully stocked, along with a wide open terrace that makes up the dance floor. If you get hungry, Bob’s Bar provides mouth-watering African and Continental dishes, as well as serving some of the best seafood around.

If you are looking for a cool, relaxing beach vibe with great music and even better drinks, then Pirates Beach Bar is your best bet. The establishment has two fully stocked bars with a wide dancing area for party lovers. Order from a strictly Islamic menu during the day from the restaurant. There is also a children’s zone complete with a swimming pool to keep the kids busy. If you smoke, try out the hookah, which has nicotine-free flavors.

Just Drinks (J.D’s) Bar and Restaurant

Summer cherry and peach coconut milk cocktail

Cocktail lovers who would like to have a shisha experience should visit Just Drinks (J.D’s) Bar and Restaurant. This adult-only bar is owned and operated by a local celebrity, lovingly called Sunny. Enjoy a stunning view of the creek, witness amazing sunsets, devour delicious meals, dance to some great music while sipping down never-before-had cocktails that only Just Drinks know how to prepare. A VIP dining club is available and credit cards are accepted.

Pixies Lounge Bar

Located along the tourist strip of Serena, Pixies Lounge Bar is a trendy cosmopolitan lounge that serves beer, cocktails and other beverages. Tables and stools are placed outside where the courteous staff will attend to every request. Enjoy the cool, air-conditioned environment, a rare treasure among bars along the strip.

Forty Pub

If you would like to blend in with the locals without feeling like you’re trying too hard, then Forty Pub is just the place for you. Forty Pub, with its friendly staff and owner, is a hit with the locals and is also welcoming to tourists. The authentic African vibes and local prices make Forty Pub ideal for travelers on a budget. Enjoy locally brewed beers, spirits and soft drinks.

Sheba Lounge & Restaurant

Located on the 3rd floor of City Mall, Sheba Lounge & Restaurant is the perfect spot if you are looking for a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy a mean cocktail with friends. The colorfully decorated Ethiopian-themed establishment boasts a rooftop lounge and bar that serves over a hundred different cocktails. Enjoy some delicious meals the Ethiopian way by taking part in the ritual of breaking ‘injera’ and sharing food from a common plate, symbolizing the bonds of loyalty and friendship. You can also experience the joyous ceremony of serving coffee (called ‘bunna’ by Ethiopians) after each meal.

Bella Vista

Bella Vista is the ideal place to go drinking and dancing with friends. The uniquely designed bar and night club is famous for playing a mix of old school and up to date hits, while patrons dance up a storm over some mean cocktails or beers. Sports lovers will feel at home, as there are flat screen TVs placed strategically on the walls around the bar, featuring non-stop sports.

Koroga Country Club

Koroga Country Club, ‘korogo’ meaning stir or cook in Swahili, is a great hang out spot for those who enjoy culinary art. The place would be incomplete without a fully stocked bar, which can be found in the center of the property. The bar is made from beautifully tanned Mvule wood. Order some ice cold beer or a cocktail concoction, skillfully prepared by the expert bartenders. You can also order fresh juices and soft drinks of your choosing. The club has a restaurant where you are free to test your cooking skills with all ingredients provided upon request.

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