5 classy but cheap places to eat in Nairobi

Kenya’s capital, Nairobi is one of the unique cities in Africa with a dynamic but vibrant culture especially in culinary delight.

Its cosmopolitan metropolis nature has infused a different culinary path that has led to the mushrooming of a string of eateries around the city. If you are on a budget, relax; Nairobi has got your appetite covered with the best of Kenyan gastronomic delights at reasonable prices. Here are some of the best cheap-eat restaurants in this bustling city.

Maharaja Restaurant, Parklands

Set up in the posh suburbs of Parklands in Nairobi City, Maharaja is one of the delightful vegetarian outlets in this part of the city. It is an incredible place with huge servings and a variety of dishes to choose from on a daily basis with good service.

Roadhouse Grill, Kilimani

Just like its name suggests, Roadhouse Grill is a haven for barbeque lovers. It is situated in yet another of Nairobi’s posh localities. Grilled Kenyan meat popularly known as ‘nyama choma’ is a true delicacy that you would love to get your teeth into. The meat is fresh and is cooked right before you so allow yourself ample time for your order to come through.

Mama Oliech Restaurant, Kilimani

This restaurant has an undertone of the Luo culture, one of the 42 tribes in Kenya. Located along Marcus Garvey road in Kilimani area, Mama Oliech Restaurant is one of those places where you enjoy freshly-prepared fish and traditional ugali – brown in colour and highly nutritious. In fact, when former US President Barrack Obama visited Kenya in 2018, he dined here. The meals are symbolic of his father’s roots.

Mama Rocks, Westlands

At the popular Alchemist bar in Westlands is the city’s first food truck housing Mama Rocks funk recipes. This establishment infuses an American culinary style with touches of African themes which has now borne the favourite veggie burger and Mango Masai Mama foods. Mama Rocks also serves tantalizing salads and freshly-blended drinks.

Diamond Plaza, Parklands

For Indian cuisine in Nairobi; the answer is with Diamond Plaza’s food court in Parklands. Besides Indian cuisine, the food court provides an array of dishes catering to vegetarians, vegans, meat lovers and shawarma lovers. At the Shawarma Corner, sandwiches and fresh chicken curries are most inviting.