Thinking of Swahili dishes instantly takes the mind to the coastal region of Kenya, areas like Malindi, Diani, Mtwapa, Mombasa and more.
The area is well known for its savoury dishes, laden with fresh spices that add a rich flavour to their food.
Swahili dishes are a combination of cuisines from different parts of Asia, Arab and Portugal, and if you are a food lover, their dishes won’t disappoint.
Nairobi is gradually opening its doors to Swahili restaurants where you can go exploring. Below is a list of the most popular ones;
1. Swahili Plate
If you are looking for an affordable place to indulge in your Swahili food adventures, Swahili Plate, located at both Sarit Center and along Muindi Mbingu street in the CBD, has you covered.
With a long list to choose from, you’re spoilt for choice with their breakfast, lunch or dinner specialities.
They have Monday offers, ensuring you eat your fill, for a small amount of money. Meal combos for your group of friends or family are also available.
Their menu is all rounded, with them offering a variety of vegetarian dishes, and also child-friendly dishes for your young ones.
2. Malindi Dishes
Located along Gaborone Road in Nairobi, Malindi Dishes is well known for its exemplary services to customers and affordable prices, with most foods ranging between Ksh 100-600.
Enjoy the most tantalizing mutton, beef, fish or chicken made with locally sourced and fresh spices, served alongside various accompaniments like naan, chapati, ugali or rice.
For the vegetarians, try out different salads at a very affordable price. Wash this down with a variety of fresh fruit juices.
They are open from Monday to Saturday, 6.00 a.m to 8.00 at night.
3. Al-Yusra Restaurant
True to their mantra; home to Halal foods, the Al-Yusra Restaurant located along Banda Street has established itself as a home to tasty and authentic Swahili dishes.
With large servings of food at reasonable prices, your experience will be nothing short of rewarding.
They have starters to set the pace, and tasty main dishes that will have you craving more. They cater to vegetarians and any other dietary restrictions.
Snacks like burgers are sold at affordable prices, and a pastry area for the sweet tooths is available They open on weekdays from 7.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m
4. Manara Restaurant
Situated in Westfield Mall, along the Gitanga-Lavington road, Manara Restaurant seeks to offer the best rarely found Swahili dishes to give you an unrivalled food adventure.
Try out breakfast platters like shakshuka, pitta bread, kibda (fried liver), falafel and more.
Their main meals are equally enticing, with meals such as fish tikka, chicken tikka and paneer tikka served along with different starch and vegetables.
Top this up with their wide selection of desserts like baklava, umma Ali and more. They are open daily from 8.00 in the morning to 10.00 p.m.
5. Karai Indian & Swahili cuisine
For a fine dining experience in an ambient area with alluring decor, this restaurant, situated along Rose Avenue in Kilimani, Nairobi is your go-to place.
Try out typical Swahili dishes like biryani and pilau, and savoury meat dishes like mutton, fish, beef and chicken.
Enjoy seasonal offers like buy one, get one free on pizza Saturdays, and discounted prices on selected desserts.
Drink varieties like fruit juices and smoothies are also available. The restaurant opens daily from 8.00 a.m to 9.00 pm
6. Swahili Dishes
Located along Manyanja Road, Swahili Dishes is a hidden gem offering sumptuous Swahili dishes that will have you satisfied.
Enjoy fish made in different styles; grilled or fried. Other meat dishes are also offered alongside various accompaniments, all you need to do is make your order.
Children-friendly meals are included in their menu, so tag your young ones with you. Top up your meal with ice-cold fresh juices and soft drinks
7. Mianzi Swahili Restaurant
Highly ranked for its gastronomy in Swahili dishes, Mianzi restaurant, located along Ralph Bunche Road should be your next destination if you want to try out enticing Swahili dishes, with specialities like biryani, coconut rice and pilau, meat dishes, vegetables and more.
Their levels of hygiene are high, with them paying attention to detail about their customers’ needs.
Snacks like mahamri, samosas, kaimati and viazi karai are available, should you need a quick bite. Delivery services are offered to customers at a small fee.
