Eastleigh's California Food Court offers unique dining experience with tasty Halal delights
The rice, warm and comforting, had a subtle smokiness that blended seamlessly with the freshness of the vegetables and the chicken, juicy and tender, was cut into pieces just the right size.
In the heart of Eastleigh’s bustling California Square on Waudo Street lies a culinary gem that is quietly building a loyal following: California Food Court.
While the restaurant is known for its halal offerings and thoughtful layout, which includes designated sections for different groups, it is the food that is really causing the biggest stir.
More To Read
- A chef's guide on how to make colourful chicken biryani at home
- Why the music at a restaurant matters more than you think
- How to make Malawah (Sweet Somali Pancake)
- How to make mayonnaise ranch dressing with a Kenyan twist
- A simple guide to cooking the perfect sausages
- Night market thrives on Eastleigh’s Kipanga Athumani Street as major malls close for the day
At the centre of this growing buzz is their standout pairing: Chicken fried rice and the refreshingly vibrant Blue Lagoon mocktail.
Ambience
Upon stepping into California Food Court, nestled on the second floor of the bustling building, the atmosphere immediately enveloped me.
The air was thick with the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling spices, smoky grills, and fresh ingredients that teased my senses and set my stomach rumbling in anticipation.
The warmth from the kitchen mingled with the lively hum of conversation and the rhythmic clatter of dishes being prepared and served, creating a vibrant pulse that drew me deeper into the heart of the space.
The dining area, though busy, brought out a welcoming charm, with its modern decor, ceilings with Arabic designs, blending seamlessly with subtle nods to traditional influences.
The energy was infectious, people chatting, laughing, and relishing their meals, and it was easy to see why this place had earned a reputation. I had been recommended this spot by a close friend who was adamant that the Chicken Fried Rice here was unlike any other, a dish that had earned a place in the hearts of many.
A view of the sitting space at the California Food Court in Eastleigh, Nairobi. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)
“Trust me, it’s a must-try,” they had insisted. Intrigued by the promise of something special, I was eager to see for myself what made this dish stand out.
As I settled into my seat, the buzz around me faded into the background, and I found myself focusing solely on the excitement of what was to come.
The anticipation grew as the friendly staff moved gracefully about, making sure each guest felt comfortable and well taken care of.
I made my way to a table, where Alex, one of the waiters, handed me the menu with a polite nod.
But truth be told, I did not need the menu; I had already made up my mind.
With a slight smile, I turned to Alex and asked, “Do you think I’ll like it?”
His response was calm but confident, the kind of answer that promised there was more to this dish than met the eye.
“Well, there’s only one way to find out,” he said, adding that it would be about a 10-minute wait for the dish. To fill the time, I decided to order a drink, eager to settle into the experience.
Soon enough, my order arrived at the table, steaming hot. The sight alone stirred excitement, I took a gulp of saliva, a generous serving of perfectly seasoned, golden-brown rice, its rich colour enticing.
Nestled within were tender, perfectly cut chunks of chicken, complemented by a vibrant mix of French beans, carrots, and fresh coriander, all glistening with a light sheen of soy sauce.
A meal consisting of chicken fried rice and a glass of the Blue Lagoon mocktail at the California Food Court in Eastleigh, Nairobi. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)
To my surprise, the dish came with a side of banana and a green chilli, an unexpected pairing that piqued my curiosity.
The first bite was where the magic truly unfolded.
Depth of flavour
The rice, warm and comforting, had a subtle smokiness that blended seamlessly with the freshness of the vegetables and the chicken, juicy and tender, was cut into pieces just the right size, not too big, not too small, perfect for taking in a bite with the rice.
Each piece of chicken was cooked to perfection, tender and bursting with flavour, as if it had been marinated with the utmost care.
The seasoning was delicate yet bold, offering a savoury richness with just the right hint of spice, not too much, that enhanced the experience with every bite.
What made this fried rice stand out was its depth of flavour. It was not overpowering, but carefully balanced, with subtle hints of Somali influences that gave it a unique twist while remaining universally appealing.
A meal consisting of the chicken fried rice at the California Food Court in Eastleigh, Nairobi. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)
The green chilli sauce added a fiery kick for those seeking a little extra heat. And then there was the banana, whose natural sweetness offered a refreshing contrast to the bold, savoury flavours of the dish, serving as a surprising but effective palate cleanser.
This was not just a meal; it was an experience!
The thoughtful combination of elements made this Chicken Fried Rice a dish I could easily crave again and again. My plate was brimming with fluffy rice infused with just the right amount of oil, not greasy, always balanced. Every grain was perfectly cooked, I could count, ha-ha, offering a soft yet slightly firm texture that indicated skilled preparation.
The portion size alone was impressive; I had to carry some as takeaway.
The perfect companion: Blue lagoon mocktail
To tell you the truth, I’m not much of a chilli person, so when I added the green chilli generously, my throat was on fire. As Alex had recommended, I only put on a part of it at first, but even that was enough to pack a punch.
Despite the heat, I could not help but keep going, the flavours were just too good to stop. Washing it down with a sip of the Blue Lagoon mocktail provided the perfect relief.
If the Chicken Fried Rice is the star of this meal, the Blue Lagoon mocktail is its equally captivating co-star. Served chilled in a tall glass, the drink’s striking electric blue colour immediately catches the eye, sparking curiosity and perfectly complementing the yumminess of the rice.
Made with a base of blue lagoon syrup and soda, the mocktail is infused with fresh mint leaves and lime slices, then packed with crushed ice, making it the ideal beverage for Nairobi’s warm afternoons.
The taste is a balance of sweet and tangy from the mint and lime, with a light fizz that refreshes the palate between bites of the warm, savoury rice.
Unlike overly sweet drinks that mask flavour with sugar, the Blue Lagoon stays light and zesty, adding a layer of sophistication to the meal.
It was as much about the experience as it was about hydration, a drink to sip slowly and savour.
A food experience rooted in culture
Though the food is the highlight, California Food Court has also distinguished itself through the thoughtful integration of Somali cultural norms.
A view of inside the California Food Court in Eastleigh, Nairobi. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)
As I sat there, I was wondering why there were separate sections, so I decided to ask the supervisor, Ahmed Muktar Ibrahim, who kindly shared that the restaurant’s decision to include women’s and family sections was in direct response to customer feedback.
This thoughtful approach reflected a genuine respect for the community and its values, making the dining experience even more meaningful.
“In the beginning, we had one open dining space,” Ahmed explained.
“But many women would come in, see the space full of men, especially during busy hours, and immediately walk out.” He paused before adding, “We wanted to make everyone in the community feel welcome, despite religion, Muslim or not, male, female, or children. Creating separate sections was a way to ensure everyone could enjoy their meals comfortably and feel respected in the section they chose to sit.”
In response, the team led by Ahmed created five private sections that prioritise comfort, modesty, and inclusivity, allowing women and families to dine in a more peaceful and respectful environment.
The result? A welcoming space for everyone, especially for female customers who value privacy while enjoying a public meal.
I was so used to open, mixed seating sections, so seeing the gendered sections at first made me question a lot. But after spending some time and learning more about the custom, I began to understand.
As Alice, a young food lover exploring Eastleigh’s diverse cuisine, put it, "It’s a thoughtful tradition that makes dining more comfortable, allowing everyone to enjoy their meal without feeling out of place or self-conscious."
California Food Court goes the extra mile to ensure its customers' comfort, offering both thoughtful amenities and a unique dining experience.
One standout feature is the VIP sections, which consist of four intimate rooms where guests can sit on beautifully decorated mats, enjoy a meal, and share conversation in a private, comfortable setting. These rooms provide the perfect space for those seeking a bit more privacy or a more relaxed dining atmosphere with friends and family.
In addition to the cosy, secluded environment, the court also provides a small but thoughtful touch that truly enhances the experience: Safaricom power banks.
I noticed them when I was enjoying my meal, and my phone died. It was a lifesaver!
Rather than scrambling for a charger or outlet, I simply borrowed a power bank from the counter.
It is just one of the many ways California Food Court makes sure every guest, whether in the VIP rooms or the open dining area, is taken care of. This blend of privacy, comfort, and convenience ensures that everyone can enjoy their time without interruptions.
The combination of Chicken Fried Rice and Blue Lagoon mocktail is not just a meal, it is an experience.
It is flavorful, fulfilling, and refreshing, and it is served in a space that respects cultural values while inviting everyone to the table.
Ahmed also mentioned that next time I come with my friends, I should try the Laham mandi, a traditional Middle Eastern dish with tender, spiced lamb served over fragrant rice and seasoned with aromatic spices.
He said it tastes like nyama choma, but even better!!
It is a hearty, flavorful meal that is perfect for sharing, and I can already imagine it being a hit with my friends.
He also shared that they have great deals every week. On Thursdays, it is buy one pizza, get one free, and on Mondays, buy one burger, get one free. For those with a sweet tooth, they have treats like ice cream, sundaes, shakes, and lassi (a yoghurt-based drink in mango, sweet, and salted flavours).
Their fruit and yoghurt smoothies, along with fresh juices, are also a hit, with lemonade being their best seller. As for drinks, they have a variety of teas, including cow tea, camel tea, huruud (turmeric tea), iced tea, coffee, mocktails, and refreshing mojitos.
When it comes to food, Ahmed recommended their wraps, which are in chicken, vegetable, or chicken with cheese options, and they also offer salads for those looking for a healthier, lighter or more affordable option.
The best part? Everything is surprisingly affordable, with around Sh. 1,000, you can enjoy a full meal, a drink, and still have some change!
For those new to Eastleigh or just looking for their next favourite meal, California Food Court offers a perfect introduction to Somali-influenced cuisine with a modern twist. From the first bite to the last sip, it is a meal that leaves you full, satisfied, and already planning your return.
Top Stories Today
