Café Deli Koinange: A culinary haven blending flavour, art, and sustainability in Nairobi’s CBD
Café deli has established itself as a beloved spot in Nairobi’s food scene, boasting four branches across the city.
I stepped into Café Deli’s Koinange Street branch on a mellow Saturday at 11 am, greeted by the inviting aroma of fresh pastries and rich coffee, as the café buzzed with laid-back charm—soft chatter, clinking cutlery, and the occasional hiss of the espresso machine.
With an eager appetite and a critic’s eye, I was ready to dive into what makes this spot a standout in Nairobi’s vibrant food scene.
Café Deli has become a beloved fixture in Nairobi’s food scene, with four branches across the city—including the vibrant Koinange Street spot, the stylish Moi Avenue location, the cosy Tumaini Street outlet, and the recently relaunched Ngong Road branch at Lexo petrol station.
Each branch offers a unique ambience while serving up the café’s signature blend of continental and African flavours.
Ambience and atmosphere
The Koinange branch has three floors, each offering a unique experience.
The ground floor, where the entrance is, features an inviting display of cakes, coffee, and milkshakes, with a barista ready to whip up your favourite beverage with a freshly baked sweet treat.
As I entered the building, I noticed that Café Deli also takes orders for birthday and occasion cakes, just as a woman eagerly picked up a beautifully decorated one bearing the elegant message, "Happy Birthday Kimmy," for a 2-year-old. She beamed with joy as the staff carefully boxed it up, making the moment even more special.
I took the flight of stairs to the second floor—the central hub of the café—where the kitchen, cashier’s counter, and well-marked washrooms for men, women, and individuals with disabilities are located. The toilets were clean and well-maintained, complete with bidets for added comfort.
A match made in dessert heaven—the Biscoff Freakshake is here to win over every sweet tooth. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)
Variety of seating options
The dining area at Café Deli is designed to suit every kind of guest, offering a variety of seating options.
Whether you are looking for an intimate table for two, a spacious setup for a group gathering, or a window-side spot with a lively street view, there is a perfect place for you. For those craving a little privacy, the cosy corner nooks provide a more secluded dining experience.
The ambience is further elevated by stunning African-inspired artwork adorning the walls, some of which is hand-painted by the renowned Kenyan artist, Chela, adding a rich cultural touch to the space.
The lighting is a harmonious blend of modern fixtures and warm yellow tones, casting a cosy glow that makes the Café Deli perfect for both work and intimate conversations.
The seating was just as diverse; some chairs feature intricate rope designs, while others are plush leather benches, adding to the café’s eclectic charm.
The soft hum of background music enhanced the relaxed ambience as guests settled into their own rhythms—some focused intently on laptops, others shared laughter over meals, and a few struck picture-perfect poses for Instagram.
The space was alive with energy, bringing together people of all ages, each enjoying the café in their own way.
The third floor, aptly named the Arena, is tailored for events, conferences, and parties, accommodating up to 200 guests and featuring a DJ booth and a mini kitchen.
As you ascend the stairs, you are greeted by three mirrors, a massive African lady mural, and plants lining the way.
One fascinating fact I learnt is that the entire building runs on solar power for 12 hours a day, with electricity only used for a few hours at night, a testament to the owner, Obado Obado's, commitment to sustainability.
This eco-conscious approach not only reduces operational costs but also promotes environmental conservation, making Café Deli one of the few establishments in Nairobi actively reducing its carbon footprint.
Melt-in-your-mouth ossobuco, perfectly paired with buttery spinach—a comforting classic done right. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)
Service
The staff at Café Deli were exceptional. I was served by Basil, a waiter who also happens to be a poet from Eastleigh.
He surprised me with a beautifully recited verse, making the experience even more memorable.
His attentiveness and friendliness added a personal touch that stood out.
Despite the busy lunch hour, the wait staff moved swiftly, ensuring every table had their orders in good time. The warm hospitality created a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
Food and drinks
I started with their Dirty Biscoff Freaky Shake, a treat as indulgent as its name suggests.
The “dirty” comes from its messy yet irresistible presentation, with vanilla ice cream melting over the edges of the glass. Topped with colourful sprinkles and a lotus biscuit, this shake delivered a rich, biscuit-like flavour from the perfect blend of Biscoff and vanilla.
The fun part was watching the barista craft it, drizzling Biscoff spread, layering the ice cream, and finishing it off with a satisfying swirl.
The first sip was an explosion of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavours, a true dessert in a glass.
It was incredibly filling, making it an ideal post-meal treat, but I opted to have it first since I was hungry, and I was having brunch there. I was craving something cold and sweet, and this shake hit the right spot.
For my meal, I ordered the Carlton sandwich and ossobuco, sharing them with friends since the portions were quite generous.
• Carlton sandwich
This is no ordinary sandwich; it is a one-of-a-kind creation, exclusive to Café Deli.
Instead of the usual bread options, the chef told me it is made with focaccia, a crispy, herb-infused Italian bread that dates back to ancient Rome.
Traditionally baked with olive oil and aromatic herbs, focaccia adds a rich depth of flavour that elevates every bite.
After I took the first bite, I was so impressed.
Stacked high and loaded with flavour, the Carlton Sandwich—served with crispy golden wedges—is the hearty bite you didn’t know you needed. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)
Tender grilled chicken, fresh crunchy tomatoes, and savoury sautéed mushrooms come together in perfect harmony.
The chef masterfully infused the dish with Mediterranean influences—whether Italian or Spanish, I couldn't quite tell—but the blend of textures and flavours was nothing short of perfection.
He also carefully layered it, ensuring each ingredient was visible, making this sandwich as visually appealing as it was delicious.
I had the sandwich with large wedge-cut fries, golden and lightly seasoned, a perfect pair.
A hearty, satisfying meal.
• Ossobuco
Well, I kind of struggled pronouncing this name, ha-ha, but I got the hang of it.
The dish featured veal shanks slow-cooked in an herb-infused broth, served atop a layer of fresh spinach.
A veal shank is a cut of meat from the lower leg of a young calf.
The chef explained that its rich flavour and tenderness when slow-cooked make it a popular choice for dishes like ossobuco, while the bone and marrow add depth to broths and sauces for an exceptionally flavourful result.
The meat was so tender it practically fell apart, making it best eaten with your hands.
As I lifted a piece from my friend’s plate, the deep, meaty aroma filled the air, teasing my taste buds before the first bite. It had a rich, hearty flavour, with the thick broth adding an extra dimension.
It was served on a thick black plate that kept the beef hot throughout the meal.
My friend opted for rice as a side, but the ossobuco also pairs well with ugali (white or brown), chapati, or fries.
We were so full that we even had to take some home because the portions were so generous.
Menu
Café Deli’s menu is a vibrant fusion of Kenyan, Somali, and continental dishes, crafted to cater to Nairobi’s diverse clientele.
For those who cannot make it to the café, whether stuck at the office or short on time, delivery services ensure they can still enjoy their favourite meals from the comfort of their location.
Their Somali delicacies include malawah, fishcakes, cambuulo, and malawa-cambuulo, all priced under Sh500.
Main dishes feature aleeso, arosto, grilled beef, and fish, available for under Sh1,800.
Their fusion of international and local cuisines ensures that every diner finds something to enjoy.
To enhance the dining experience, these dishes pair exceptionally well with their signature drinks, such as the biscoff shake, fresh tropical juices, or their variety of shakes ranging from vanilla and strawberry to Oreo and espresso (priced between Sh570 and Sh700).
The richness of the Somali flavours complements the creamy and refreshing beverages, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
To accompany my meal, I had fresh passion juice, which was cold, tangy, and incredibly refreshing.
It was light and paired perfectly with the rich flavours of the food, cleansing the palate between bites.
Standout moments
The highlights of my visit were learning how to make a Biscoff shake and discovering the Carlton sandwich, which is exclusive to café deli, the only place in Kenya serving it this way.
The head chef, a passionate culinary expert, shared that this signature sandwich was inspired by European flavours but given a uniquely Kenyan touch.
The attention to detail in food presentation and the use of fresh ingredients also stood out.
Beyond the food, the overall customer experience was fantastic.
The restaurant had a mix of professionals tapping away on laptops, friends laughing over coffee, and families enjoying hearty meals, making the space feel lively yet cosy.
Café Deli has built a loyal clientele who appreciate both the ambience and quality service, to the extent of making orders.
Live music and special guests
Café Deli does not just offer great food, it also brings in live entertainment at 9 pm on the weekends and special occasions, like Valentine's, public holidays, etc.
During my visit, I learned that the legendary Kenyan music duo, Amos and Josh, were scheduled to perform at the venue soon.
Their soulful harmonies and vibrant stage presence make them a perfect addition to the restaurant’s lively yet relaxed ambience.
I can only imagine how incredible it would be to sip on a mocktail or a milkshake while enjoying their melodic tunes.
If you are a fan of live music, café deli is the place to be for an unforgettable dining and entertainment experience.
Would I return?
Absolutely. I would love to explore more of their shakes, smoothies, or even try their Somali menu, especially with their upcoming menu expansion.
Final thoughts and recommendations
Café Deli is a gem in the heart of Nairobi’s CBD, yet it offers a peaceful escape from the city’s chaos.
Its location near the Jamia Mosque and various banks makes it easily accessible by taxi, personal car, or boda boda.
The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability, especially through its solar-powered operations, sets it apart in an era where businesses are seeking eco-friendly solutions.
Whether you are looking for a great meal, a quiet workspace, or a spot to catch up with friends, café deli is a top choice.
I highly recommend it, and I will definitely be back to try their breakfast menu and enjoy their nightlife.
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