The 10 Best Restaurants In The Old Town Of Mombasa Kenya

Situated on the south-east section of Mombasa Island, the Old Town is home to a mix of locals, Asian, Arab, British and Portuguese settlers. We feature 10 outstanding restaurants that are worth a trip into Mombasa’s Old Town.

Jahazi Coffee House

If you want to have an authentic Swahili experience, then Jahazi Coffee House is the perfect choice. The classy yet down-to-earth establishment, with its Swahili art and architecture, is the ideal spot for a business meeting. It’s also a good place to go for a meal with friends while engaging in lively conversations. Jahazi Coffee House was restored to educate visitors about the culture of East Africa and features a community learning center. Order traditional Swahili dishes together with some of the best Swahili coffees and teas around.

Jahazi Coffee House, Ndia Kuu Rd., Old Town, Mombasa, Kenya, +254 726 409 436

MN Kafe

MN Kafe can be found among the constricted lanes of the Old Town. If you happen to be in the town one morning, stop by and order a delicious international breakfast. Their Mexican version of bacon and eggs with chili-lime salsa and spiced waffles is highly recommended. It would almost be a sin not to sample some of their famous cakes. These were served at the start of the business in Mombasa and their success transformed it into the successful enterprise it is today. Try some of the cakes with a refreshing hot or cold beverage.

MN Kafe, Makadara Rd., Mombasa, Kenya, +254 711 665 233

Blue Room Restaurant

Restaurant, Diner, American, Indian, Pakistani, Vegetarian

If you are looking for the ideal place to have a quick business meeting while enjoying a delicious meal before going about other affairs, then Blue Room Restaurant is the perfect choice. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner complemented by good coffee and their sought-after ice cream. The restaurant offers a wide menu including local, American, Indian, Pakistani and vegetarian options, from hot dogs, pizza, sandwiches and burgers to seafood dishes. As a company that has been in business since 1952, Blue Room Restaurant doesn’t disappoint when it comes to offering great fast food and great customer service.

Rozina House Restaurant

Rozina House Restaurant serves the best of African, Chinese, Continental, Indian and Italian cuisines. Located a short walking distance from Fort Jesus, Rozina House’s cozy and relaxing environment makes it the ideal place to chill after a fulfilling tour or a tiring day at work. Rozina House is highly favored by locals, as it has been around for as long as anyone can remember. Most remarkably, the place still maintains that old Swahili charm that everyone loves. Order the ginger-infused seafood grill whenever you stop by.

Rozina House Restaurant, Africa Hotel, Sir Mbarak Hinawy Rd., Mombasa, Kenya, +254 723 593 473

Avanti

If you are looking for an elegantly designed place where you can enjoy a sumptuous meal, then Avanti will suit your taste. Avanti prepares a wide variety of classic dishes, pastries and beverages. This chain of family-style restaurants promises an amazing ambiance, superior customer service, beautiful background music and great coffee. For your breakfast, lunch or dinner, stop by the Old Town restaurant and choose from a varied selection of meals. You could have one of their starters, main courses, sandwiches or pizzas with a dessert and a hot or cold beverage.

Avanti Likoni, Nakumatt Likoni, Mombasa, Kenya, +254 775 249 170

Distant Relatives Restaurant

Hotel

If you are looking for an elegant place to dine on a budget, then Distant Relatives Restaurant fits your bill. Located on Kilifi Creek, this eco-friendly restaurant serves some of the most delicious gourmet dishes in the area for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Choose from a variety of garden-grown salads, perfectly cooked steaks, tasty fish dishes, calamari and prawns, and pastas. If it’s a Tuesday or Friday night, then take advantage of the all-you-can-eat oven-baked pizza and burger at reasonable prices. Wash it all down with some local and international beers, wines and spirits from the fully-stocked bar.

Nautilus

Even though seafood is very common in Kenya’s coast, you haven’t quite had a perfect seafood meal until you’ve tried Nautilus. An awesome place to dine in the enchanting Kilifi Creek, Nautilus offers more than just delicious food. Their staff is professional, the owner is friendly and the view of the creek is breathtaking. The warm ambiance makes Nautilus the ideal choice for a date. Not only is their seafood delicious but they also serve tasty meat and pasta dishes. Order your meal with the house wine for a fulfilling dining experience.

Nautilus, Old Ferry Road, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kenya, +254 724 341 034

Singh Restaurant

Make a stop at Singh Restaurant if you are in the mood for some sumptuous, authentic Indian dishes. This very experienced establishment has been in business since 1962 to serve railway passengers. The decor is rather simple but you will be back if you try some of their famous aubergine dishes. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive. Some dishes are cooked to order so be sure to set aside some time for your meal.

Singh Restaurant, Mwembe Tayari Rd., Mombasa, Kenya, +254 733 702 145

Mikaye Fort Jesus Restaurant

Restaurant, African, Pub Grub, Wine, Beer

Conveniently located across from the famous Fort Jesus, Mikaye Fort Jesus Restaurant is a great place to stop by after a tour and enjoy tasty African and fusion dishes. Mikaye (meaning ‘honorable woman’ in Dholuo) offers a culinary experience you do not want to miss. The trendy, one-of-a-kind establishment has great ambiance, superior customer service and top-notch food. After you discover the tasty fusion between African and international cuisines served here, Mikaye Fort Jesus Restaurant will be embedded as one of your most cherished memories of the Old Town.

Shehnai’s Restaurant

Restaurant, Indian, Vegetarian

Come dine in elegance at Shehnai’s Restaurant, an award-winning establishment where you can savor delicious Indian specialties. Take your pick from delightful starters, soups, grills and griddles, Indian breads, Mughai delicacies, tempting desserts and meat-free options. Complement your preferred dish with a cup of Kenyan coffee, Indian tea or a cold beverage. Don’t expect any alcoholic beverages, as they do not serve any due to religious beliefs. However, their superior customer service and tasteful decor coupled with the wide variety of exquisite dishes are enough to make anyone happy.

About the author

Corlena Bailey

I am a marketer, a writer and an administrator in my own right. After completing university, I have had the privilege to work for various reputable organizations and gained a wealth of experience. I have tackled several forms of writing throughout my career. After completing a copywriting course with American Writers & Artists Inc. (AWAI), I decided to enter the field of copywriting in order to enhance my portfolio and establish an online presence. Being a natural-born writer, I completed my first upper middle grade novel called Flowers Wilt But Pi Is Constant. I enjoy writing of course, along with spending time on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and other social media networks, doing voluntary work, watching anime, listening to music, playing with my baby nephew, Dominik and chilling with friends.