Hey there, travel tribe! Ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the flavors of Kenya? From street-side stalls to upscale restaurants, Kenya’s culinary landscape is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored. Seriously, if you haven’t tried these dishes, are you even fooding right?

THE BEST Kenyan FOODS WE TRIED IN Nairobi (Rated by Us)

Nairobi’s food scene is a vibrant symphony of flavors, colors, and aromas, and we’ve got some top picks for you:

1. Nyama Choma (HWT Rating: 5/5):

The ultimate Kenyan BBQ experience! Imagine juicy, tender pieces of meat, often goat, roasted to perfection over an open flame. It’s not just food; it’s a social event, best enjoyed with friends, family, and, of course, fellow travelers.

2.Samosas (HWT Rating: 5/5)

While samosas are beloved worldwide, Nairobi’s twist on these little triangles of happiness is something to behold. Filled with spicy meat, lentils, or even potatoes, every bite is a burst of flavor. Seek out local samosa vendors for an authentic experience.

 

Chapati (HWT Rating: 5/5):

Soft, layered, and utterly delicious! You can find chapati throughout the city and region. Perfect with stews or just a dab of butter. Be prepared to ask for seconds…or thirds.

Mandazi (HWT Rating: 5/5):

East Africa’s answer to doughnuts, Mandazi can be found at local bakeries, tea houses, and breakfast spots across the city. These deep-fried treats, lightly sweetened and sometimes infused with coconut or cardamom, are ideal for breakfast or a quick snack. Don’t miss your chance to savor these delightful bites.

Delicious Kenyan Dishes We Tried In Lamu 

Lamu, where the ocean’s bounty meets aromatic spices, offers a culinary adventure like no other. Here are some top-rated dishes:

Swahili Biryani (HWT Rating: 5/5):

Fragrant rice, tender meat, and an array of aromatic spices. It’s a mouthwatering symphony of tastes that transports you to the heart of Swahili cuisine.Where to Find It: Swahili Biryani is a specialty in coastal areas like Lamu.

Prawn Curry:

Succulent prawns meet a rich and fragrant curry sauce. The flavors are a harmonious blend of spices and coconut milk, creating a luscious, creamy texture that perfectly complements the tender prawns.

Where to Find It: You’ll find it in abundance at Lamu’s seafood restaurants, often prepared with locally caught prawns for the freshest experience.

Freshly Caught Grilled Lobster:

The lobster is prepared simply, with a gentle grilling that highlights its natural sweetness and succulence. It’s a dish that celebrates the ocean’s bounty.

Where to Find It: Lamu’s coastal charm ensures that you can relish Freshly Caught Grilled Lobster at waterfront restaurants and beachside grills.

Samaki wa Kupaka:

This Kenyan coastal specialty features fish smothered in a rich coconut sauce, infused with spices and herbs. The dish offers a delightful contrast of flavors, with the creaminess of coconut complementing the tender fish.

Where to Find It: Seek out local seafood restaurants and Swahili eateries to savor the authentic flavors of Samaki wa Kupaka.

Viazi Karai:

These are deep-fried potato snacks with a spicy kick. Slices of potatoes are coated in a flavorful batter and fried until golden and crispy. They make for an addictive and satisfying snack.

Where to Find It: Viazi Karai are often sold at street food stalls and local markets in Lamu. They’re a popular grab-and-go snack.

Mishkaki:

Skewered and grilled pieces of marinated meat, usually beef or chicken. The meat is tender and infused with the flavors of the marinade and smoky grill, making it a favorite street food.

Where to Find It: Mishkaki is a common find at street food stalls and local grills in Lamu. Just follow your nose to the enticing aroma of sizzling skewers.

Mahamri:

These are deep-fried, lightly sweetened pastries that are a beloved breakfast or snack option. They often feature flavors like coconut and cardamom, offering a delightful combination of crispy and fluffy textures.

Where to Find It: Mahamri can be enjoyed at local bakeries, tea houses, and breakfast spots in Lamu. They’re a delightful way to start your day.

Kenyan Pilau:

Kenyan Pilau is a fragrant rice dish cooked with spices and often accompanied by meat or vegetables. It’s a comforting and aromatic meal that’s full of flavor.

Where to Find It: Kenyan Pilau can be found in local restaurants all around Kenya.

HONORABLE MENTIONS: Other Kenyan Foods We Tried

While some dishes made it to our top favorites, these honorable mentions have their own unique charm:

Mutura:

A flavorful Kenyan sausage made from minced meat, usually goat or beef, mixed with spices and herbs. It’s then stuffed into a casing made from the animal’s intestines. The result is a savory, slightly spicy, and incredibly aromatic sausage that’s grilled to perfection.

Where to Find It: Mutura is a popular street food in Kenya, especially at local markets and roadside stalls. It’s a beloved snack enjoyed by Kenyans from all walks of life. Just be careful where you get it from, as some places may not follow strict sanitary precautions.

Fish Curry:

A coastal delight that showcases Kenya’s love for seafood. It features fresh fish cooked in a fragrant curry sauce, typically infused with a medley of spices and coconut milk. It’s a harmonious fusion of flavors that transports your taste buds to the Indian Ocean.

Where to Find It: The best place to savor Fish Curry is along the coast, particularly in cities like Mombasa and Lamu. Coastal restaurants and seafood eateries are the go-to spots for this delectable dish.

Chicken Tikka:

Chicken Tikka is a tantalizing dish of marinated and skewered chicken pieces, grilled to smoky perfection. The marinade, often a blend of yogurt and spices, infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor, making it a popular choice among meat lovers.

Where to Find It: Chicken Tikka can be found in various restaurants and eateries, especially in urban areas like Nairobi. Look for Indian restaurants or street vendors serving this delightful grilled chicken.

Ugali:

A Kenyan staple, this simple yet satisfying maize porridge might look plain, but its charm lies in its versatility. When paired with meat, vegetables, or saucy dishes, Ugali becomes the perfect accompaniment, soaking up flavors and adding a comforting, starchy element to the meal.

Where to Find It: Ugali is a ubiquitous dish in Kenya and can be enjoyed at virtually any Kenyan restaurant, from street-side stalls to upscale dining establishments.

Sukuma Wiki:

Translating to “push the week” in Swahili, Sukuma Wiki is a nutritious dish of collard greens sautéed with tomatoes, onions, and a touch of love. It’s a simple yet wholesome vegetable medley that complements many Kenyan meals.

Where to Find It: Sukuma Wiki can be found on the menu of most Kenyan restaurants, especially those serving local cuisine. It’s a side dish that pairs well with a variety of Kenyan main courses.

Traditional Kenyan Drinks To Try

Kenya’s beverage game? Top-notch! Try these:

Kenyan Tea (Chai) (HWT Rating: 5/5):

Kenyan Tea, also known as “Chai,” is a soul-soothing blend of black tea leaves, creamy milk, and a secret medley of spices. It exudes warmth, with the spices imparting a delightful complexity to the tea’s flavor. Each sip is like a comforting embrace.

Where to Find It: You can enjoy a steaming cup of Kenyan Tea at local tea markets, cozy tea houses, or even at street-side stalls across Kenya. For an unforgettable experience, venture to Kiambethu Tea Farm, where you can tour the lush tea plantation, indulge in a delicious lunch, and partake in a tea tasting that will awaken your senses

Dawa (HWT Rating: 4.5/5):

Dawa, meaning “medicine” in Swahili, is a lively cocktail that combines vodka, honey, fresh lime, and a touch of sugar. It’s a refreshing concoction with zesty and sweet notes, perfect for quenching your thirst on a sunny day.

Where to Find It: Nairobi’s vibrant nightlife scene is where you’ll find Dawa cocktails in their full glory. Look out for this on the menu at bars, restaurants, and lounges in the city, where skilled mixologists craft their own unique variations. Ask for the “Dawa of the day” for a special twist.

Kenyan Coffee:

Kenyan Coffee is a true coffee lover’s dream. Grown in the high-altitude regions of Kenya, it boasts a rich, full-bodied flavor with bright acidity and fruity undertones.

Where to Find It: Look no further than Kenya’s numerous cafes and coffee houses, especially in bustling cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. Seek out specialty coffee shops that take pride in sourcing and brewing the finest Kenyan coffee beans. If you have really like coffee, do a tour at Karunguru Coffee Estate or Fairview Estates Coffee Farm, a quick 25-minute drive from Nairobi. You’ll wander through coffee fields, enjoy a scrumptious lunch, and sip coffee like a pro. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!

Urwaga:

Urwaga is a traditional Kenyan beverage made from fermented sorghum or millet. It has a distinctively tangy and slightly sour flavor profile.

Where to Find It: To savor the unique taste of Urwaga, venture into local markets, particularly in rural areas and smaller towns across Kenya. This traditional drink is often prepared and enjoyed within local communities.

 Famous Kenyan Foods We Haven’t Tried Yet

While some dishes have tantalized our taste buds, others have us eagerly awaiting our next adventure.

Things we will try on our next visit:

1. Kenyan Stew: On our next Kenyan adventure, we’re setting our sights on the tantalizing Kenyan Stew. This hearty dish is a medley of flavors, often featuring tender chunks of meat or poultry simmered to perfection in a rich, aromatic sauce. Whether it’s beef, chicken, or goat, we’re excited to experience the comforting embrace of Kenyan Stew.
2. Matoke: Matoke is a dish we can’t wait to savor during our next trip. It’s a unique East African delicacy made from green bananas cooked with a medley of spices and often paired with vegetables or meat. The intriguing blend of flavors and textures promises a culinary adventure like no other.
3. Kenyan Bajias: Kenyan Bajias are a delightful snack that we’re eager to munch on. These bite-sized fritters are made from a flavorful batter infused with spices and herbs, usually accompanied by a zesty dipping sauce. The crispy exterior and savory interior are a perfect combination for a quick and satisfying treat.
4. Masala Chips: Masala Chips are a fusion of Kenyan and Indian flavors, and they’ve piqued our curiosity. Imagine crispy French fries seasoned with a tantalizing blend of spices. It’s comfort food with a spicy twist, and we can’t wait to indulge in this flavorful delight.

Now, there are a few things we might not try due to our taste buds, but who knows, you might be more adventurous:

1. Boiled Goat’s Head: For some adventurous foodies, trying Boiled Goat’s Head might be intriguing. In some parts of Kenya, the goat’s head is simmered until tender. For us, it’s a bit too adventurous, but we applaud those with the courage to explore it.
2. Roast Maize with Lemon and Chili: This popular street snack in Kenya consists of grilled maize (corn) seasoned with zesty lemon and spicy chili. It might not be our cup of tea, but for those who love smoky flavors and a spicy kick, it’s worth a try.
3. Coconut Bean Soup: A beloved dish in coastal regions, Coconut Bean Soup features a creamy coconut base with a medley of beans. While it might not align with our taste buds, those who appreciate the fusion of coconut and beans should definitely give it a shot.
4. Millet Porridge: Millet Porridge is a staple breakfast dish in Kenya, known for its simplicity and nutritional value. It might not be our top choice, but for those seeking a wholesome and hearty morning meal, it’s an excellent option.

 Kenyan Food Experiences & Cooking Classes: Beyond the Plate

Eating is undoubtedly one of the greatest joys in life, but you know what’s even cooler? Creating the very dishes that tantalize your taste buds. In Kenya, it’s not just about the food; it’s about the entire experience.

1. Cooking Classes in Mombasa: A Taste of Tradition

For those with a passion for culinary exploration, Mombasa offers an exceptional opportunity to dive into Kenyan cuisine headfirst. Take a cooking class to uncover the secrets of traditional Kenyan recipes. It’s more than just chopping and stirring; it’s a cultural immersion that will deepen your connection with the flavors and traditions of this beautiful land.

2. Nairobi Street Kitchen: Where Flavor Meets Fun

If you’re up for an unforgettable experience, Nairobi Street Kitchen is the place to be. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a vibe. With music that sets the mood, an Instagram-worthy ambiance, and a diverse range of food vendors, this spot is a must-visit. We loved it so much that we went there five times! It’s a place where the love for food, music, and good times collide.

3. The Alchemist Bar: Where Nairobi Comes to Life

Looking for a lively spot in Nairobi? Head to The Alchemist! It’s not just a place for drinks; it’s a full-blown party with live music and an electric atmosphere. Locals and tourists alike come here for the festivities, making it a must-visit.

The food scene at The Alchemist is a delightful mix of Kenyan and international cuisines. From Kenyan classics to global delights, there’s something for everyone. They even serve cheeseburgers, although with a unique twist – it’s not your typical American cheese and while there cheeseburger wasn’t our cup of tea, it’s worth trying for the drinks alone. If you’re up for a lively party, diverse cultures, and an exciting food journey, don’t miss The Alchemist in Nairobi.

4. The Carnivore Restaurant: A Meat Lover’s Paradise

For those seeking unique meat experiences, look no further than The Carnivore Restaurant. in Nairobi. It’s a carnivore’s dream come true, offering a dining concept similar to a “Brazilian Steakhouse.” Here, they bring a variety of African meats right to your table. It’s a feast for the senses and an adventure for your palate. Bring your appetite!

5. Coffee Lovers, Rejoice!

If coffee is your love language, Kenya has a treat in store for you. Venture to Karunguru Coffee Estate or Fairview Estates Coffee Farm, both conveniently located within 25 minutes of Nairobi. It’s not just a coffee tour; it’s a journey through lush coffee fields, a chance to savor a delectable lunch, and an opportunity to partake in a coffee tasting that will awaken your senses.

6. Tea Time at Kiambethu Tea Farm

For those who prefer the soothing embrace of tea, head to Kiambethu Tea Farm. Here, you’ll embark on a guided tour of the tea plantation, indulge in a delightful lunch, and experience a tea tasting like no other. You’ll gain insight into the art of tea-making and savor some of the finest Kenyan brews.

7. Lamu Food Festival: A Culinary Extravaganza

If you happen to find yourself in Kenya during the Lamu Food Festival (usually in mid-late April), consider it a culinary blessing. Lamu, just a quick flight from Nairobi, transforms into a food lover’s paradise during this time. Indulge in a myriad of food activities and don’t forget to hop on a Dhow Cruise Lunch/Dinner for a unique dining experience on the water.

Spices & Flavors in Kenyan Food

Let’s take a step back in time and delve into the roots of Kenyan cuisine, where the flavors have been simmering for centuries. Think of it as a culinary journey through history, featuring unique ingredients and cooking methods that have stood the test of time. It’s like nature’s gift to foodies like us!

The heart and soul of Kenyan cuisine are in its spices and flavors, like:

Cardamom: You know that delightful aroma in Mahamri? Yep, that’s mostly cardamom. This versatile spice shows up in both sweet and savory dishes, giving Swahili recipes their signature flavor.

Cumin: This earthy spice is the not-so-secret ingredient in many meat dishes and stews, adding a subtle warmth that’s pure delight.

Coriander: Both the seeds and fresh leaves (known as cilantro) find their way into Kenyan cooking. Whether it’s in a Nyama Choma marinade or sprinkled over a dish for a fresh finish, coriander is always in the mix.

Turmeric: Not only is turmeric known for its health benefits, but it’s also responsible for the vibrant colors in many Kenyan curries and rice dishes. Plus, it adds a delicate earthy flavor without overpowering the dish.

Ginger and Garlic: These aren’t just spices; they’re the dynamic duo of Kenyan cuisine. You’ll find them in everything from stews to stir-fries, creating a symphony of aroma.

Chili: If you’re up for some heat, Kenyan dishes can be made with bird’s eye chili or the slightly milder African chili. But fret not, there are milder versions for those not looking to set their mouths on fire.

Cloves: Especially popular along the coast, cloves lend a warm and sweet flavor to dishes, particularly rice dishes like Pilau.

Cinnamon: Beyond being a breakfast spice, cinnamon in Kenya is a versatile flavor enhancer, used in teas, porridges, and some sweet dishes.

Now, let’s talk freshness! Kenyan cuisine is all about celebrating fresh ingredients. From freshly picked tomatoes, kale, and spinach to just-caught fish from the Indian Ocean or Lake Victoria, freshness is the name of the game.

Bonus: Kenyan Recipes

Feeling inspired? Whip up a batch of Bajias or some homemade Chapati, and transport yourself to Kenya with each delicious bite.

 FAQs

Got questions about the best Kenyan foods?

Reach out in the comments or DM us on Instagram! IG is the fastest way to connect with us for any urgent questions. Here are some quick answers:

• Our absolute favorite dish from the region: Nyama Choma, hands down!
• Our favorite drink in the region: We’re suckers for a Kenyan Chai.
• How to get to Kenya: Direct flights to Nairobi from major international airports make it quite accessible.
• How spicy is Kenyan food: It’s a mix, but there’s always a spicy option for chili enthusiasts.
• Are there vegetarian options available: Absolutely! Dishes like Sukuma Wiki and Githeri are hearty and vegetarian.

Ready to plan your own Kenyan food adventure?

Start right here with our Ultimate Kenya Travel Guide, Nairobi Travel Guide, and Lamu Travel Guide.

And if you prefer videos over reading, check out our Kenyan travel series on TikTok!

Don’t forget to subscribe to follow along with the adventures.