Good, authentic and fine Indian cuisine is hard to find.  So when it turns up on your doorstep during a visit in Mombasa, it’s cause for celebration.

Sheesh Mahal is located in Nyali International Beach Hotel, Mombasa, Kenya. The average meal at Sheesh Mahal costs Sh 1,800. Dress code: Elegantly casual Open: Dinner only Special thanks to Eat Out Coast.

The moonlight brightens the winding path through the mature gardens of the first resort built in Kenya, Nyali International Beach Hotel, the soothing melodious sounds from the ocean direct you to your destination.  Windowless, the warm breezes from the ocean drift through the exotic mirrored beads that hang from the high ceilings, flickering candlelight basks the restaurant with a warm glow, deep purple fabrics drape the ceiling and coloured glass chandeliers complete the Indian-themed ambiance.  Golden crockery is highlighted on a backdrop of aqua table runners and the secluded loft space up-above is ideal for a romantic evening. The ambience at Sheesh Mahal is simply magical.

Wearing traditional brilliantly white Indian kurtas with silver beaded detailing, Sheesh Mahal’s staff is graceful and exudes effortless charm.  Attentive, knowledgeable and patient; our experience was one of the best along the Kenyan coast.

To be expected and appreciated, the dress code calls for ‘elegantly casual,’ which complements the sophisticated Indian décor and Sheesh Mahal’s fine dining experience.  Only opened for dinner service, making a reservation would be highly advisable.

There were Tandoori Prawns, at Sh 745: the perfect, lightly marinated, queen prawns hung from a mini tandoori.  Served in the same fashion, the Tandoori Chicken was definitely one of the most delicate and flavourful my palette has ever tasted in Kenya, rivaling even the oldest Indian establishments in Mombasa.  Both assertively spiced with cumin, coriander, garam masala and other “secret” ingredients, the flavours were mellow but savoury. There were many mains and desserts in the mirrored-menu, but we didn’t get there.

Sheesh Mahal is one of the leading authentic Indian restaurants in Mombasa.  The restaurant offers a sophisticated yet elegant dining experience.  The magical setting by the Indian Ocean with tantalizing food is the combination that ensures Capital Lifestyle will go back for more.

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