It’s not hard to find a good meal in Mombasa. Besides its world-famous beaches and a blend of cultures, the city is also home to an array of fantastic restaurants. From fresh seafood to spicy Indian dishes, there’s something for everyone.
In addition, a trip to Mombasa is not complete without trying out Swahili delicacies such as biryani, pilau, mishkaki, and viazi karai. To help you narrow down your choices, we’ve put together a list of the best restaurants in Mombasa. So prepare your taste buds for a treat like no other in the coastal city.
1. Char-Choma Restaurant
First on our list is Char-Choma, one of the most sought-after beach restaurants in Mombasa. It offers a wide selection of Kenyan dishes, including nyama choma, ugali (a maize-based dish), and chapati (a type of flatbread). So if you’re looking for a taste of Kenya, this is the place to go.
Char-Choma is also well known for its flame-grilled pork ribs and chicken, which are marinated in a special sauce and cooked over an open flame. The result is a dish that is both tender and juicy, with a delicious smoky flavor. You choose the type of meat your taste buds desire, it’s then weighed and cooked to your liking.
Moreover, their cocktails and sauces are prepared with customers in mind. As a family restaurant, it features a swimming pool and a play area for the young.
Location: Along Mombasa-Malindi Highway, before Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort.
Opening hours: 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. (daily).
2. Tarboush Restaurant
When it comes to authentic Swahili cuisine, there’s no better place in Mombasa than Tarboush. The food here is fresh and flavourful, and the atmosphere is inviting. You’ll love their lamb shawarma, chicken kebabs, and of course, biryani and pilau. Be sure to try out their fresh juices — the tamarind juice is a real treat.
Location: Makadara Road, next to Mombasa’s Central Police Station.
Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (daily).
3. Barka Restaurant
Barka Restaurant, in the center of Mombasa island, is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. It is among the most popular places to dine in Mombasa CBD, and for good reason. They serve dishes such as pilau, biryani, shawarma, and chicken tikka. On top of that, meals are affordable and in generous portions.
This Swahili restaurant has a VIP lounge, should you wish to dine in privacy. The eating place is so popular that Kenya’s fourth president, Uhuru Kenyatta, would frequent this eatery during his trips to Mombasa.
Location: Makadara Road, next to Mombasa’s Central Police Station.
Opening hours: 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (daily).
4. Yuls Restaurant
Yuls Restaurant is another popular beach restaurant in Mombasa. With its laid-back atmosphere and warm hospitality, it’s no wonder it’s been around for years! The menu features all sorts of dishes, from Italian favorites to classic Swahili dishes and even vegan options.
Try out their Italian pizzas, prepared in an original Italian firewood oven. If you’re here for seafood, you’ll love the grilled lobsters and prawns. For those looking for something light to snack on, they offer tasty samosas, home-cooked cakes, and ice cream.
Whether you’re in the mood for an intimate dinner or are looking to grab something quickly, Yuls is the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings! What’s more? You can engage in water sports such as kneeboarding and waterskiing at this dining spot.
Location: Along Mombasa-Malindi Highway, next to Bamburi Beach Hotel.
Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. (closed on Mon).
5. Forodhani Restaurant
You can’t go wrong with Forodhani Restaurant if you’re craving for authentic Swahili cuisine and fresh seafood. This restaurant is in Mombasa’s Old Town and at the waterside, making it a great place to visit for stunning views of the ocean.
At Forodhani, you’ll find dishes such as mutton biryani, chicken tikka, fish fingers, butter naan, and grilled seafood platters — all served in generous portions. And with so many dishes to choose from, you’ll be sure to have a unique experience every time you visit.
They also offer an outdoor seating area, so take your pick if the weather permits. In addition, this seafront restaurant is kid-friendly and has ample parking space. It’s easily accessible via public means of transport, say tuk tuks and Uber.
Location: Sir Mbarak Hinawy Road, near Fort Jesus.
Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. (daily).
6. Cafesserie Mombasa
If you’re looking for a taste of Italian and French cuisine in Mombasa, then check out Cafesserie. This restaurant has become a mainstay for many locals and tourists, and it’s easy to see why. The food is fresh and delicious, with an extensive menu featuring burgers, pizza, and pasta.
If you are in the mood for some seafood, there are plenty of other options to choose from. Sample their chili and lemon prawns served with Focaccia bread.
The atmosphere here is cozy and modern too — perfect for catching up with friends over dinner or having an intimate evening with your significant other. Plus, their iced drinks and milkshakes are some of the best in town!
Location: City Mall Nyali.
Opening hours: 7 a.m. – 12 a.m. (daily).
7. Blue Room Restaurant & Ice Cream
Are you after a restaurant in Mombasa with a touch of class? Consider dropping by Blue Room Restaurant & Ice Cream. This chic eatery serves traditional Kenyan cuisine with international flair and offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Blue Room is particularly known for its palatable chicken biryani, samosas, pizza, and grilled chicken — all made with fresh ingredients sourced directly from local markets. They also serve a range of salads. Their avocado and beef salad is a mix of avocado, lettuce, onion, roasted peppers, and other ingredients.
No matter what you order, you’re sure to have an unforgettable culinary experience at Blue Room — from the welcoming staff to the delicious food — and it’s worth adding to your must-visit dining spots in Mombasa.
Locations: Haile Selassie Road (Mombasa CBD); Likoni Mall.
Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. (daily).
Read also:
- 10 Best Restaurants in Nyali, Mombasa
- 16 Best Airbnb Mombasa Vacation Rentals
- 14 Best Hotels in Mombasa
8. Tamarind Mombasa – Dhow and Restaurant
For a unique dining experience in Mombasa, visit Tamarind. Not only is it one of the most popular restaurants in the city, but it also boasts stunning views of the Indian Ocean and an incredible menu of fresh seafood dishes.
It’s famous for serving delicious food such as sizzled prawns, grilled salmon fillet, mashed potatoes, and ugali — all perfectly cooked. Plus, you can choose to have your meal prepared either on the terrace or on a dhow boat!
This is one of those food joints where you can sit back and relax while enjoying some truly special dishes. The atmosphere is laid back, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself spending several hours here. Trust us when we say that it’s worth every minute!
Location: Cement Silos Road, Nyali, Mombasa.
Opening hours: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. (daily).
9. Qaffee Point
Number nine on our list is Qaffee Point. This trendy restaurant is a great option for breakfast, dinner, or brunch. The menu features local favorites such as biryani, chapati, chicken wings, prawns, burgers, and sweet milky tea. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make this a great spot to hang out with friends or just relax with a good book.
To experience Qaffee Point, you have to try their Middle East breakfast. It’s a unique fusion of East African flavors and Middle Eastern cuisine, with melty cheese and pitta bread all coming together on crispy toast.
If you’re looking for something to wash down your sandwich, the restaurant offers an exciting array of coffees, milkshakes, and juices. You can even get creative and mix your coffee blend from their wide selection of beans and spices.
For a relaxed dining experience with a hint of adventure, Qaffee Point is the place for you!
Location: Ralli House, Nyerere Ave, Mombasa.
Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. (daily).
10. Camels Joint
Camels Joint is a culinary oasis, captivating locals and tourists with its enticing array of flavors and warm ambiance. As a leading restaurant in the port city of Mombasa, Camels Joint has earned a stellar reputation for its delectable cuisine, exceptional service, and charming coastal-inspired decor.
The heart and soul of Camels Joint lie in its diverse and tantalizing menu. The restaurant prides itself on serving authentic coastal dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of the region. Seafood enthusiasts will be delighted by the freshness and variety of options available, including mouthwatering grilled fish, succulent prawns, and flavorsome calamari dishes.
For those seeking a taste of local tradition, Camels Joint also offers Swahili delicacies like biryani, pilau, and mshikaki (grilled meat skewers) that truly transport diners to the heart of coastal culture.
Location: Along Haile Selassie Road, Mombasa.
Opening hours: Sun-Thu: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fri: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sat: 7 a.m. to 12 a.m.
11. Maasai Beach Bar & Restaurant
What are you in the mood for? Fresh seafood? Something sweet? If so, then you’ll love the Maasai Beach Bar & Restaurant. This seafront restaurant offers stunning ocean views and has an unbeatable menu featuring a wide selection of classic dishes.
Here, you can feast on tasty nyama choma, grilled lobsters, pork ribs, and French fries. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, Maasai Beach Bar & Restaurant is the perfect place for a romantic dinner or Sunday brunch. Along with expertly cooked meals, they also have one of the best beer and wine selections in Mombasa. The icing on the cake is their outdoor seating overlooking the beach and ample parking space.
This is your chance to try something truly delicious in Mombasa before heading home. From grilled fish to calamari, Maasai Beach Bar & Restaurant has something everyone will enjoy!
Location: Off Links Road Opposite Reef Hotel, Mombasa.
Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. (daily).
12. 10 Street
There are many places to eat in Mombasa, but 10 Street is one of the best. This restaurant in Nyali is small and intimate, with a limited menu that includes burgers, chips, fish, chicken, and shawarma. The food is fresh and delicious, and the prices are reasonable.
When it comes to drinks, this joint serves a variety of whiskeys, beer, and cocktails. 10 Street is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, so be sure to drop by when hunger pangs strike. You won’t be disappointed.
Location: The Avenue Building, Nyali, Mombasa (near City Mall).
Opening hours: 24/7 (round the clock).
Nearby Restaurants
1. The Moorings Restaurant
If you’re after exquisite seafood in Mtwapa, head to The Moorings. It takes pride in being Kenya’s premier floating restaurant. With a wide variety of dishes to choose from, all of which are fresh and expertly prepared, you’re sure to find something to your taste. Their signature lobster platter is served with grilled vegetables and chips.
You can skip seafood and try out their chicken curry, nyama choma, or burgers. The restaurant has an open-air dining room with views of the Indian Ocean, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal. After dining here, you can enjoy a boat ride along the Mtwapa Creek.
Location: First left after Mtwapa Bridge, Mtwapa {about 17 km (10.56 mi) from Mombasa town}.
Opening hours: Mon-Sat: 10 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Moorings Floating Restaurant menu
2. Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant
Have an unforgettable dining experience at Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant. Perched in Diani, the restaurant is set in a natural limestone cave that’s been there for centuries.
The menu features fresh seafood and international dishes, all of which are made with local ingredients. If you’re feeling adventurous, order the traditional Moroccan chicken or the Captain risotto. After that, sample their Kenyan coffee or any of their Italian ice cream.
Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, so be sure to book a table in advance. The eatery is also perfect for a romantic dinner date.
Location: Off Diani Beach Road, Diani Beach, Kwale County.
Opening hours: 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. (daily).
It’s time to feast on good food
When it comes to eating out, there’s no shortage of delicious restaurants in Mombasa. From local cafes to fast food chains, there’s something for everyone in this coastal city. So, if you’re looking for a great meal, don’t hesitate to check out any one of the restaurants in Mombasa from our list.
2 replies on “14 Best Restaurants in Mombasa, Kenya (2024)”
I love there food culture , design and taste I look forward to compete with them interms of business
Noted. We love the food culture in Mombasa too!