Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is not just a business hub, but also a food paradise. The Central Business District (CBD) is home to numerous restaurants, ranging from cozy cafes to upscale dining venues. Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends, enjoy a family meal, or host a business meeting, the CBD has a wide range of restaurants to satisfy every craving. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 restaurants in Nairobi CBD (2026) that you should try.
1) Moonlite Cafe and Restaurant
Located at Avenue House along Banda Street, Moonlite Cafe is a charming restaurant that offers a cosmic dining experience. With a menu ranging from breakfast items to hearty main courses and desserts, Moonlite is a great spot for both casual meals and business meetings. The green decor adds a relaxing vibe, making it perfect for hangouts with friends or colleagues.
- Price Range: Kshs. 300 to Kshs. 690 for breakfast, Kshs. 500 to Kshs. 4000 for mains
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday (6 am to 10 am), Sunday (9 am to 8 pm)
2) Mandhari Fine Dining Restaurant
Housed at the Nairobi Serena Hotel, Mandhari offers a luxurious dining experience with seasonal menus and wine pairings. The restaurant features a Tuscan-style outdoor terrace overlooking the pool and provides a sensory journey with regional and international specialties.
- Price Range: Premium
- Opening Hours: 12:30 pm to 2 pm (lunch), 7:30 pm to 10 pm (dinner)
3) Mint and Salt
Located on the ground floor of Uchumi House, Mint and Salt is an intimate cafe and restaurant that’s perfect for affordable meals. With a variety of options ranging from burgers and main courses to sweet treat bowls, it’s a great option for anyone on a budget but still looking for delicious food.
- Price Range: Kshs. 100 to Kshs. 1200
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday (8 am to 10 pm), Sunday (11 am to 9 pm)
4) Cafe Maghreb
Serena Hotels’ Cafe Maghreb is known for its international buffet breakfast and lunch menu, offering a wide selection of French pastries, Italian gelato, and more. It’s perfect for a meeting or casual hangout while you enjoy a sumptuous meal. The Sunday Brunch is particularly popular, offering a filling and flavorful spread.
- Price Range: Kshs. 3200 per person (Breakfast), Kshs. 5500 per person (Sunday Brunch)
- Opening Hours: 6:30 am to 10 pm daily
5) Kista Cafe
Located at the ground floor of JKUAT Towers along Banda Street, Kista Cafe offers a variety of beverages, sandwiches, and pizzas. It’s perfect for corporate meetings or just a quick bite while in town. The rustic decor and welcoming ambiance make it a great spot to unwind.
- Price Range: Kshs. 180 to Kshs. 2090
- Opening Hours: 6:30 am to 7 pm daily
6) Traveller’s Restaurant
Located at Hilton Hotel along Mama Ngina Street, Traveller’s is known for its world-cuisine buffet. With daily themed menus ranging from Kenyan and Italian to Asian, this restaurant offers a diverse dining experience suitable for tourists and locals alike.
- Price Range: Varies
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
7) CJ’s Restaurant
With several branches across Nairobi, CJ’s is a well-known restaurant offering a relaxed dining experience. Featuring over 300 menu items, from fresh salads to hearty meals, CJ’s is a great choice for any occasion. The restaurant’s ambiance and service make it perfect for date nights or group outings.
- Price Range: Varies
- Opening Hours: Varies by location
8) City Star Restaurant
Located on Kimathi Street, City Star is a popular Ethiopian restaurant serving delicious injera, pizza, and other Ethiopian delicacies. It’s the best spot for those looking to experience something different while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Nairobi CBD.
- Price Range: Kshs. 100 to Kshs. 2000
- Opening Hours: Daily (6 am to 10 pm)
9) The Branch Restaurant
Located at Kenya Cinema CBD, The Branch Restaurant is known for its traditional Kenyan cuisine. Offering deep-fried fish, ugali, matumbo, and traditional vegetables, it’s an excellent choice for date nights or family gatherings.
- Price Range: Varies
- Opening Hours: Varies
10) Pronto Restaurant
With locations along Kimathi Street and other areas in Nairobi, Pronto serves a combination of Somali and African continental cuisine. The restaurant’s ambiance is perfect for a formal meeting, family dinner, or even a birthday party.
- Price Range: Kshs. 300 to Kshs. 11,000
- Opening Hours: 12 pm to 8:30 pm daily
Conclusion:
Whether you’re looking for authentic Ethiopian food, world-class international dishes, or local favorites, Nairobi’s CBD restaurants have something for every palate. From fine dining at Mandhari to cozy spots like Mint and Salt, you’re sure to find the perfect restaurant for any occasion. Enjoy your meal in one of these top 10 restaurants in Nairobi CBD (2026)!
