Chimek House
This place was formerly the Tortuga Rum Bar (not sure what happened to them) and now it’s a Korean restaurant and bar. Located on riverside lane, Chimek House looks pretty chill and nice for a Saturday afternoon. They didn’t change up the decor as much and no one uses the pool still (including us).
The menu is mostly fast food, including their famous Korean fried chicken. I tried to get an iced coffee but my order was constantly forgotten until I gave up on it and that’s when they remembered and brought it - it wasn’t good coffee.
Hemingways Eden - The Deck
Hemingways Eden is a boutique hotel located deep in the heart of Karen. Like really deep in Karen, if you don’t live in or near the Karen environs just put aside a good 40min to drive there. Once the roadtrip is done though, you are welcomed into a most serene space! The hotel’s restaurant, the Deck, is perfectly positioned next to a lagoon and borders the Giraffe Sanctuary forest, giving it such a picturesque view.
Hooyos Kitchen & Poetry
Hooyos is a nice and spacious cafe along Dennis Pritt road. There’s lots of greenery both inside and on the outdoors, lots of seating space and I love the big windows which bring in so much natural light into the space. Being a Somali establishment, the menu boasts lots of Somali cuisine plus continental breakfast items and typical menu items you find in most menus. Of course it goes without saying that this place is halal.
270° Rooftop
The rooftop culture in Nairobi is really growing and I’m here for all of it, I love a good rooftop hang. The 270° rooftop is a restaurant located on the 18th floor of the Escada building along Lantana road. Being on the 18th floor already is quite high up so you can imagine the views you’ll see up there.
The restaurant has both an indoor and outdoor section, so if you’d like a bit more privacy or more quiet you can choose to sit inside or if you want the full 270 degree experience - step out onto the rooftop and pick a spot to enjoy basking in the Nairobi sun.
Seafood Cafe & Swahili Dishes - Watamu
Last but not least on the #watamueats series is Seafood Cafe. This roadside cafe is quite easy to find, it’s right by the main Watamu sign on Gede Road. It’s a simple restaurant with very little thought to decor and ambience though I did appreciate the graffiti murals on the walls. The place gives very much kibanda-esque vibes which I was happy because that means the food will be excellent
Papa Remo - Watamu
I love a good beach side restaurant and Papa Remo is just that with all the vibes to match It’s spacious with lovely coastal decor, comfortable lounge areas and a great central bar. The ocean breeze welcomes you as you walk in and head towards the tables on the beach (best seats in the house imho). The views my goodness!
I came here for a solo dinner and I was very ready to stuff my face.