10 Date Night Spots in Nairobi

Finding a soulmate in Nairobi is no easy task, maybe because we don’t believe in soulmates but as hard as it may be, the city does have potential suitors and more importantly, many excellent date night restaurants.

This guide couldn’t come at a better time, as Nairobi swiftly eases out of a lockdown. There really is no better way to turn on the romance than by dining with your loved one. In no particular order, here are the top 10 date night spots in the city, from low-key bars that are perfect for a casual situation to that fine restaurant to take the one you want to woo.

  1. Sierra Bar & Grill

Cosy, authentic and unassuming cannot fully describe the hidden gem that is Sierra Bar and Grill located at Yaya Centre. The main dining room is utterly sophisticated and screams date night with warm amber lighting, wooden floors, mirrors and timeless art pieces.

The real magic of Sierra lies in its melt-in-your-mouth, juicy steaks ranging from their rib eye to fillet to sirloin steak to an incredible wine selection topped with flawless hospitality that will make your fine dining experience truly unforgettable.

2. Intti – A Nikkei Experience

Perfect for a first date , INTI will blow your mind, create lasting impressions and great memories against the backdrop of the glorious sunset in the evening through the huge curved glass windows offering a scenic view of the city of Nairobi, as you enjoy your lunch/ dinner.

Prepare yourself for a whole new dining experience that includes ceviche, tiradito, maki with octopus, sushi, causa, tiraditos, and lots of Japanese craft spirits. Those who love sushi and spice will find that it is not hard to fall in love with Nikkei. 

3. Hidden Gem

Hidden Gem is an effortlessly cool restaurant in Lavington that feels as if dining inside a family home, with cosy decor and traditional Italian dishes.

In the evenings, sitting upstairs at their expansive deck with warm lighting feels like being on a holiday somewhere as you enjoy their extensive Australian wine selection or some fine cocktails.

4. Hob House

Tucked away in Kitisuru, Hob House’s philosophy is simple “Don’t panic, it’s organic.” The restaurant has a homey, green, soothing atmosphere and as for the food, expect traditional Lebanese dishes ideal for sharing like Zaatar and Feta cheese manoushe which dates back 5000 years and traditional Lebanese hummus babila.

5. The Social House

If going out to dinner is too cliche for you, then the next best thing is grabbing a drink (or drinks). This is slowly becoming a popular thing even amongst first dates. If this is the case, Inca is what you’re looking for. Soak in the vibrant colours that this peruvian bar has to offer and enjoy the handcrafted cocktails that truly capture the essence of Nairobi.

You can also dine in The other room is lovely, vibrant with an indoor and outdoor sitting space where guests can enjoy breakfast under shaded umbrellas, brunch by the pool or leisurely dinner while taking in the peace and quiet.

6. Nyama Mama, Capital Center 

Nyama Mama is an unpretentious, fun, modern day African roadside diner. Locally inspired, some of our skilfully concocted dishes include Chapati wraps to Mama’s stews and flavourful sides.

7. Talisman

Situated in the heart of Karen, you will find Talisman (or commonly referred to as Talo), an elegant upscale gastro lounge with an al fresco dining providing a leafy surround as an intimate dining destination for anything from an English breakfast to a three-course lunch/ evening meal with friends or simply a drink or two by the pub

8. Honey & Dough

Honey & Dough provides a modern café experience with delicious healthy food. Great vegetarian and vegan options too.

9.Harvest Restaurant, Trademark Hotel

The interior exudes an unmistakably warm and welcoming atmosphere and is designed to wow and suck you in with its beauty and warm colors.

10. Shamba Cafe

Nairobi is home to very few barn-style restaurants Shamba cafe being one of them brings a whole level of modern barn-inspired setting. Cosy, airy with high ceilings and a rustic interior that transforms into a romantic dining space as the fairy lights come on in the night.

Tucked away in Loresho, Shamba Cafe is the ideal spot for those of you in search of a relaxing place to brunch, wine and dine.

Bonus Restaurant: Chu-Wöm

Capital FM’s favourite dining spot located at the heart of CBD. The food is unique and as a plus and the service is extremely fast and the prices are fantastic. Just a heads up Chu-Wöm is not open in the night, so you might want to grab lunch.

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