Nairobi, the vibrant capital city of Kenya, boasts a rich cultural diversity and a growing cosmopolitan population. With this diversity comes a variety of culinary delights from all around the world. It’s no wonder Indian cuisines have captured the hearts and taste buds of some Nairobians. In this article, we’ll take you on a delectable journey through some of the best Indian restaurants that Nairobi has to offer. Keep reading!
1. Open House Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Nairobi, Open House Restaurant is a culinary gem that celebrates the essence of Indian traditions. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a favorite among families and food enthusiasts alike. The menu is an exquisite blend of classic Indian dishes, featuring flavorful curries, aromatic biryanis, and delectable tandoori delights. The chefs at Open House are masters at balancing spices, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
Location: 1st Floor, Gallant Mall, Parklands Road, Nairobi.
2. Clay Oven Restaurant
Clay Oven Restaurant transports its guests to the very heart of India with its traditional clay ovens and authentic recipes. The restaurant’s interior is adorned with vibrant hues and intricate artwork, creating a charming ambiance. From the sizzling kebabs to the mouthwatering vegetarian curries, every dish is a celebration of India’s rich culinary heritage. Clay Oven’s commitment to quality and service has earned it a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
Location: Fuji Plaza, Waiyaki Way, Nairobi.
3. Haandi Restaurant
Flavor meets elegance at Haandi Restaurant. With its chic decor and contemporary vibe, Haandi sets the stage for an extraordinary dining experience. The menu boasts a wide array of dishes from various regions of India, each prepared with a modern twist. Whether you’re craving a hearty curry or a light and refreshing salad, Haandi’s menu has something to satisfy every palate.
Location: The Mall, Waiyaki Way, Nairobi.
4. Anghiti Restaurant
Anghiti Restaurant is among Indian restaurants in Nairobi creating innovative dishes that blend Indian flavors with global influences. This fusion approach has won the hearts of adventurous diners seeking something unique. The restaurant’s friendly and attentive staff ensures that every visit is a delightful experience. From their signature Palak paneer (curry) to their delectable desserts, Anghiti offers a memorable culinary adventure.
Location: Rhapta Road, Westlands, Nairobi.
5. The Mayura Westlands
Think of The Mayura Westlands as a culinary oasis that effortlessly combines flavor and elegance. This restaurant is a haven for fans of dosas, idlis, and other popular South Indian delicacies. The Mayura’s commitment to using traditional cooking methods and high-quality ingredients ensures that each dish is a burst of genuine South Indian taste.
Location: KenRail Towers, Nairobi.
6. Tandoori Patio Restaurant
Tandoori Patio Restaurant is a paradise for lovers of smoky tandoori dishes. Their open-air patio setting adds a touch of romance to the dining experience. The chefs at Tandoori Patio skillfully marinate meats and vegetables, resulting in succulent and flavorful dishes. From their tantalizing kebabs to their signature breads, every bite at Tandoori Patio is a treat for the taste buds.
Location: 2nd floor, The Pavilion, Lower Kabete Rd, Nairobi.
7. Grand Cafe and Indian Cuisine
Take your culinary adventure to the next level by visiting Grand Cafe and Indian Cuisine — one of the many modern restaurants in Nairobi today. It effortlessly blends the best of both worlds, offering a fusion of Indian and continental dishes. The restaurant’s chic interior and cozy ambiance create a perfect setting for intimate dinners and celebrations.
Grand Cafe’s extensive menu ensures that there’s something for everyone, from traditional Indian curries to continental classics with an Indian twist. Go for their butter chicken, vegetable rice, or garlic naan, and won’t regret it.
Location: Lenana Towers, Lenana Rd, Nairobi.
Read also:
- Fine Dining: Top 14 Restaurants in Nairobi, Kenya (2023)
- Kenyan Food: 10 Dishes You Should Try in Kenya
8. Maharaja Restaurant
True to its name, Maharaja Restaurant treats its guests like royalty. This upscale dining establishment exudes elegance and grandeur, making it a popular choice for special occasions. Maharaja’s menu showcases the best of North Indian cuisine, with an emphasis on royal recipes passed down through generations. Each dish is a work of art, skillfully prepared to please both the palate and the eyes.
Location: Opposite MP Shah Hospital, Shivachi Road, Nairobi.
9. Mint Shack Peponi
Mint Shack Peponi offers a refreshing blend of Indian and East African flavors. This unique fusion creates dishes that are both familiar and excitingly new. Here, you can enjoy foods such as butter naan, Tandoori chicken, ginger prawns, and egg bhajia.
The restaurant’s laid-back and casual atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. It’s also a great venue for an outdoor cookout. Mint Shack Peponi’s culinary creativity knows no bounds, promising a delightful surprise with each visit.
Location: Peponi Road, Westlands, Nairobi.
10. Chowpaty Restaurant
Here’s one of the oldest pure vegetarian restaurants in Nairobi: Chowpaty Restaurant. This eatery brings the vibrant flavors of South-Indian dishes to the capital. It captures the essence of India’s bustling food scene, offering a delightful selection of dosas, naans, and more. The restaurant’s lively ambiance and mouthwatering dishes make it a hit among those seeking an authentic taste of Mumbai.
Location: Westpark Towers, Parklands Rd, Nairobi.
11. Shayona Vegetarian Restaurant
Shayona Vegetarian Restaurant caters to vegetarians and veggie enthusiasts with a diverse menu of plant-based delicacies. From their hearty thalis to their inventive vegan dishes, Shayona proves that vegetarian food can be both nutritious and delicious. The restaurant’s tranquil setting and friendly service create a serene dining experience.
Aside from tasty food, you can hold baby showers, wedding or birthday parties, and get-togethers at this eatery.
Location: Kusi Lane, Parklands, Nairobi.
12. Slush Coffee World
While Slush Coffee World is known for its exceptional coffee, it also serves up delectable Indian treats that perfectly complement the beverages. This vegetarian restaurant has been in existence for more than 40 years. It has a warm and inviting atmosphere, thus an ideal spot for a casual meetup or catching up on work while savoring a delightful cup of coffee and tasty snacks.
Slush’s food menu consists of pizza, burgers, chips (fries), samosas, and sandwiches.
Location: Parklands Road, Nairobi.
13. Ashiana
For mouth-watering vegetarian delicacies in Nairobi, visit Ashiana. The restaurant’s chefs draw inspiration from the culinary traditions of Punjab and other northern regions, resulting in dishes that are rich and indulgent. Some must-try dishes here include dal tadka, chips masala, mushroom fritters, garlic bread, and mushroom dosa.
The warm ambiance of Ashiana adds to the overall dining experience.
Location: Apic Centre, Muthithi Road, Nairobi.
Flavors of India in Nairobi
Indian restaurants in Nairobi offer a delightful array of flavors, taking diners on a culinary adventure through the diverse regions of India. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, exploring these restaurants is a must to experience the rich and varied Indian cuisine right in the heart of Nairobi.