Big Sam’s Pâtisserie is an artisan dessert studio known for its elegant pastries, handcrafts chocolates, chunky and yummy cookies and mousse cakes. Founded by Sam Ayany, an internationally trained pastry chef whose love for dessert has him bringing in a blend of French technique and global flavours with a Kenyan twist to his decadent desserts. Sam so kindly sent me a few packs of his unique chocolates and cookies to sample and share my thoughts with you all.

Open House is a very traditional family style restaurant. This was my first time visiting even though I know it’s been in existence in Nairobi for ages! I went to the Karen branch which is located at the crossroads shopping centre. I loved the homey ambience you feel when you walk in, it feels like you’ve walked into someone’s (very grand) but very comfortable dining room. The waiter was quick to get us a table and give us a breakdown of the menu since we wanted to try a bit of everything!

Funky Monkey is a nice little spot along Diani beach road. I’ve been to Diani many times but I have never been here so I was very excited to have lunch here. It was an overcast day so I didn’t get to capture its vibrancy as much had it been sunny. That aside - it’s still very well put together, tropical themes all through with the leso roofing, the vibrant murals on the walls and a nice open-air seating style.