Explore Nairobi’s 8 must-try fine dining restaurants for unforgettable experiences

Explore Nairobi’s 8 must-try fine dining restaurants for unforgettable experiences

Whether you're planning a foodie adventure or simply looking for your next memorable meal, each of these 8 Nairobi restaurants promises excellence on every plate.

Finding the perfect place to dine with a friend or loved one can be a challenge, especially in Nairobi, where the options seem endless.

As global travel picks up and food lovers continue to seek unforgettable experiences, a new wave of fine dining restaurants has emerged in the capital.

These venues offer not only exceptional cuisine but also captivating atmospheres, immersive cultural touches, and world-class service.

Here are eight fine dining destinations worth adding to your 2025 bucket list:

1. The View – Movenpick Hotel, Nairobi

As the name suggests, The View offers exactly that—an incredible 360-degree panorama of Westlands and beyond. Perched high above the city in a revolving restaurant, this venue combines Swiss precision with African culinary flair.

Signature dishes include tender beef fillet with a red wine jus and Kenyan-inspired seafood platters.

As the restaurant gently rotates, guests enjoy a constantly changing view of Nairobi’s skyline and hills, perfect for sunset dining.

2. Jiko – Tribe Hotel, Nairobi

Located in the trendy Village Market complex, Jiko is known for its creative approach to African fusion cuisine.

With an open-concept kitchen and a dedication to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, the chefs at Jiko transform East African flavours into fine dining works of art.

Try the tamarind-glazed lamb or the baobab sorbet—“each dish tells a story rooted in the continent’s rich culinary heritage.”

Tribe Hotel's Jiko Restaurant, which is located at the Village Market complex. (Photo: Tribe Hotel)

3. Slate – Karen, Nairobi

Tucked away in the serene suburb of Karen, Slate offers a rustic yet refined dining experience.

This intimate, reservation-only restaurant has built a loyal following thanks to its artisanal plating and bold, inventive flavour pairings.

Highlights include smoked duck breast with passion fruit glaze and homemade truffle gnocchi. The restaurant is also halal-friendly, and its carefully curated menu makes it ideal for romantic dinners or exclusive celebrations.

Slate Karen, Nairobi. (Photo: TripAdvisor)

4. Ezo – Westlands, Nairobi

A rising star in Nairobi’s fine dining scene, Ezo blends modern Japanese aesthetics with East African hospitality.

Known for its omakase experience, Ezo sources ultra-fresh ingredients for its sushi, sashimi, and Wagyu beef dishes.

The minimalist, luxurious décor sets the tone for a serene and sophisticated dining experience, ideal for both special occasions and polished business dinners.

Ezo Restaurant. (Photo: TripAdvisor)

5. Tatu Restaurant – Fairmont The Norfolk, Nairobi

Consistently ranked among Kenya’s top restaurants on TripAdvisor, Tatu exudes a mix of colonial charm and contemporary elegance.

Set within the historic Fairmont Norfolk, it’s renowned for its dry-aged steaks, seafood towers, and impressive wine cellar.

“The service there is impeccable, and the ambience is as elegant as the hotel’s storied legacy.” A must-visit for anyone seeking timeless sophistication and culinary excellence.

Tatu Restaurant. (Photo: Fairmont)

6. Caviar – Riverside Drive, Nairobi

As its name implies, Caviar is all about indulgence.

Specialising in gourmet delicacies like sturgeon roe, foie gras, and lobster thermidor, the menu is pure elegance.

“This exclusive venue… even the menu speaks fine elegance and luxury.”

With velvet seating, crystal chandeliers, and live jazz, the restaurant channels the glamour of classic European haute cuisine, perfect for luxurious nights out or celebratory dining.

Caviar Restaurant. (Photo: Eat Out)

7. Mercado – Nairobi

Mercado brings Mediterranean elegance to the heart of the city.

From Spanish tapas to North African tagines, each dish is prepared with bold, authentic flavours and premium ingredients.

Their rooftop lounge is a hidden gem, offering skyline views, craft cocktails, and small plates—ideal for diners seeking sophistication without pretence.

Mercado Restaurant. (Photo: TripAdvisor)

8. Myna Restaurant – Gigiri, Nairobi

Recently reopened in a larger and redesigned space, Myna is fast becoming a standout on Nairobi’s culinary map.

Embracing a farm-to-fork philosophy, Myna focuses on sustainable sourcing and seasonal tasting menus.

Expect creative pairings like spiced pumpkin ravioli with citrus beurre blanc. With elegant interiors and tranquil garden views, the restaurant offers both innovation and serenity.

Myna Restaurant. (Photo: Visit Nairobi - Kenya)

These eight fine dining establishments are more than just places to eat—they offer immersive experiences that celebrate culinary artistry, ambience, and cultural authenticity.

Whether you're planning a foodie adventure or simply looking for your next memorable meal, each of these restaurants promises excellence on every plate.

For reservations and dress codes, contact the restaurants directly or visit their official websites.

Let your palate explore, your eyes wander—and don’t forget to bring your appetite and a date for the adventure

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