Westlands is more than just a commercial hub; it's the beating heart of Nairobi's culinary scene. This vibrant neighborhood is packed with an incredible diversity of dining options, from fine-dining steakhouses to hidden-gem kitchens serving authentic global flavors.
Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a romantic dinner, or a lively spot for drinks with friends, finding the best restaurants in Westlands can be a delicious adventure. As experts in the Westlands area (we know where to live and where to eat!), we at House Hunt Kenya have put together our list of the must-visit restaurants that make this neighborhood a true foodie paradise.
Here are the top 10 best restaurants in Westlands you need to try.
1. Mythos Taverna
Best For: Authentic Greek food in a stunning, vibrant setting.
Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
Step into Mythos and you'll be instantly transported to a beautiful Greek island.
This is easily one of the most photographed and best restaurants in Westlands for its gorgeous blue-and-white décor and buzzing atmosphere.
It's not just about looks; the food is genuinely authentic. The menu is packed with Mediterranean classics.
We recommend going with a group and ordering the "Acropolis" platter—a generous spread of grilled meats, pita bread, and tzatziki. Their calamari and chicken thigh dishes are also crowd-pleasers. It's the perfect spot for a celebratory dinner or a lively weekend brunch.
2. INTI - A Nikkei Experience
Best For: A high-end, fine-dining experience with incredible city views.
Cuisine: Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian)
Located on the 20th floor of One Africa Place, INTI offers breathtaking views of the Nairobi skyline.
This restaurant specializes in Nikkei cuisine, a fascinating and delicious fusion of Japanese techniques and Peruvian ingredients. It's a culinary journey with dishes like fresh ceviche, expertly rolled sushi, and tender grilled meats.
The ambiance is sophisticated and modern, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion or a fancy date night.
3. Fogo Gaucho
Best For: Meat lovers and celebratory group dinners.
Cuisine: Brazilian Churrascaria (Steakhouse)
Prepare yourself for an all-you-can-eat meat experience.
Fogo Gaucho is a Nairobi institution and one of the best restaurants in Westlands for carnivores. For a fixed price, passadors (waiters) move from table to table with skewers of sizzling, perfectly grilled meats, including picanha (top sirloin), beef ribs, lamb, chicken, and even grilled pineapple.
You also get unlimited access to a vast and impressive salad bar. Come hungry!
4. Mercado Mexican Kitchen & Bar
Best For: Lively group dinners, tapas, and amazing cocktails.
Cuisine: Mexican
Mercado brings the vibrant energy of Mexico to Westlands. The atmosphere is always buzzing, with colorful décor and upbeat music. It's a fantastic place to share small plates (tapas) like tacos, quesadillas, and their famous guacamole, which is often prepared at your table. Their cocktail menu, especially the margaritas, is extensive and pairs perfectly with the spicy, flavorful food.
5. Haandi Restaurant
Best For: Classic, high-quality North Indian cuisine.
Cuisine: Indian
A long-standing favorite in Nairobi, Haandi is synonymous with exceptional Indian food.
Located at The Mall, this restaurant has a timeless appeal with its glass-walled kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work.
They are masters of North Indian classics like butter chicken, paneer tikka, and a wide array of naan breads. The service is always impeccable, and the food is consistently delicious, making it a reliable choice for any occasion.
6. Urban Eatery
Best For: Groups that can’t agree on one cuisine.
Cuisine: Multi-Cuisine (Indian, Asian, Mexican, Burgers)
Urban Eatery is the ultimate solution for a picky group. It’s not just one restaurant but four different kitchens operating in one stylish, modern space.
You can choose from "The Daily" for coffee and pastries, "Bar Rista" for burgers and comfort food, "Firo" for Indian, or "Yin" for pan-Asian.
You can order from any menu, making it the perfect spot where one person can have sushi while another has a curry.
7. Ezo Restaurant
Best For: Authentic Japanese and serene ambiance.
Cuisine: Japanese
Tucked away on Muthithi Road, Ezo offers a tranquil escape and some of the most authentic Japanese food in Nairobi.
Well known for its excellent sushi and sashimi, the menu also features fantastic ramen, tempura, and teriyaki dishes.
The ambiance is minimalist and calm, allowing you to focus on the high-quality, flavorful food. It's a top choice for a quiet business lunch or a peaceful dinner.
8. About Thyme
Best For: Romantic dinners in a lush, garden setting.
Cuisine: International / European
A true hidden gem, About Thyme is nestled in a lush, green garden off Peponi Road. It feels like a secret escape from the city's hustle.
The restaurant is famous for its romantic ambiance, especially in the evening with twinkling lights.
The menu is creative and international, featuring everything from slow-roasted pork belly to unique pasta dishes and decadent desserts.
9. Open House Restaurant
Best For: A casual and reliable Indian food experience.
Cuisine: Indian
Another pillar of the Westlands Indian food scene, Open House (also in The Mall) has been serving Nairobians for decades. It offers a slightly more casual and budget-friendly experience than its neighbors but with no compromise on flavor. It's famous for its tandoori dishes, rich curries, and quick, friendly service. It’s a go-to for a satisfying and flavorful weeknight meal.
10. Bao Box
Best For: A fun, casual night out with friends.
Cuisine: International (Burgers, Pizzas, Salads)
Bao Box isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience. It's Nairobi's first board game café, offering a library of hundreds of games to play while you eat and drink.
The food menu is casual and crowd-pleasing, featuring pizzas, burgers, and, of course, bao buns.
It’s a fun, unpretentious, and highly social spot, perfect for breaking the ice or spending a whole evening with friends.
