On this weblog put up, I’ll take you on a pleasant journey by the most effective espresso outlets and cafes in Nairobi, the place you possibly can benefit from the most interesting brews, delectable bites, and a style of town’s heat hospitality. These cafes supply a singular mix of experiences, flavors, and aromas which might be certain to fulfill your caffeine cravings.
Nairobi, the energetic capital metropolis of Kenya, shouldn’t be solely famend for its nightlife spots and vacationer sights but in addition its thriving cafe tradition. As a proud Kenyan who calls town residence, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring its espresso scene extensively.
On this information, you’ll discover my favourite Nairobi cafes for date nights, quiet vibes, beans to remove, tranquil ambiance, pleasant employees, and extra. So, in case you’re trying to find the most effective espresso in Nairobi, a relaxed place to work from, or just a comfy spot to unwind, learn on.
Greatest Cafes and Espresso Outlets in Nairobi

To present you concepts of the place to pattern the distinct and complex Kenyan espresso, I’ve ready this record of my favourite cafes in Nairobi. It’s primarily based on the standard of the espresso, ambiance, service, facilities, and site.
I’ve been to extra cafes within the metropolis, however I’ve narrowed this record all the way down to the highest 15 primarily based on the above standards and my opinion. Different prospects have additionally extremely rated these cafes on evaluation web sites comparable to Google and TripAdvisor.
1. Java Home (Greatest Cafe and Espresso Store in Nairobi Total)

Kicking off this record of the most effective espresso outlets in Nairobi is Java Home, a beautiful cafe with branches throughout town. This espresso joint options the whole lot you have to work, loosen up, join, and dine.
All their retailers are completely embellished with native artwork items, and the ambiance is gorgeous. With their high-speed WiFi and funky music, you possibly can arrive within the morning and work your method by the day. All whereas being served the most effective Kenyan espresso, tasty snacks, and scrumptious meals from their in depth menu.
I’ve usually visited Java Home, and their providers by no means disappoint. They’ve attentive, pleasant employees who all the time attempt to make you are feeling at residence. My favourite branches are Kimathi Avenue (for breakfast) and Reinsurance Plaza (for burgers).
Java Home Info
Handle: Alongside Kimathi Avenue, subsequent to Kilimanjaro Restaurant
Telephone: +254 725 412 164
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7 am to 10 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Burgers, home espresso, full Java breakfast. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per latte, $9-$29 per principal, $4-$8 for desserts
Web site: javahouseafrica.com
2. Artcaffé (Greatest for a Number of Coffees and Pastries)

Subsequent on my record of distinctive cafes in Nairobi is Artcaffé. Along with nice individuals, meals, pastries, and drinks, this espresso store and bakery is concerning the ambiance. Its distinctive design, distinct fashion, and well-decorated sitting areas give it a captivating vibe that matches the vitality in Nairobi Metropolis.
Identical to Java Home, ArtCaffé has a number of retailers within the Nairobi metropolis. My favourite is the Galleria Buying Mall department, which is near wildlife spots within the metropolis. Right here, you possibly can cease and loosen up, get pleasure from a cup of espresso, join with pals, or take lunch whereas in your solution to Giraffe Heart, Bomas of Kenya, or the Elephant Nursery.
For those who’re a digital nomad questioning which ArtCaffé would swimsuit you greatest, I like to recommend the Kimathi Avenue department. It’s fantastically embellished and options high-speed WiFi, a spacious indoor sitting space, and a conducive ambiance. Right here, you possibly can work in your laptop computer with minimal disturbance.
Artcaffé Info
Handle: At Galleria Buying Mall, off Langata Highway
Telephone: +254 709 828 282
Working Hours: Day by day, from 6:30 am to 11 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Latte, carrot cake, fried rooster sandwich. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per latte, $9-$17 per principal, $3-$8 for desserts
Web site: artcaffe.co.ke
3. Cafe Deli (Greatest for Working, Burgers, and Lattes)

Cafe Deli is a well-known delicatessen chain in Nairobi, boasting three outstanding retailers throughout town. Though it caters to a various clientele, the espresso store is hottest amongst {couples} searching for a romantic ambiance and digital nomads trying to find a productive workspace.
Among the many highlights of Cafe Deli are its delectable burgers, irresistible desserts and pastries, and expertly brewed espresso, making it a culinary haven for meals lovers. The nice and cozy and welcoming employees add to the general appeal, guaranteeing a pleasant meals expertise.
My private favourite, the Tumaini department, stands out with its fantastically embellished inside, cozy seats, and excellent lighting. Furthermore, the high-speed and dependable WiFi ensures that distant work and leisurely searching are a breeze, making Cafe Deli the best vacation spot for a memorable outing – for work, enjoyable, and meals.
Cafe Deli & Delicatessen Info
Handle: Tumaini Home, off Moi Avenue
Telephone: +254 710 465 291
Working Hours: Day by day, from 6:30 am to 10 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Double mocha, beef burgers, banana bread. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $3-$4 per latte, $8-$28 per principal, $3-$7 for desserts
Web site: cafedeli.co.ke
4. Palette Cafe (One of many Greatest Cafes to Work From in Nairobi)

Nestled in Nairobi’s vibrant Lavington neighborhood, Palette Cafe is greater than only a espresso spot; it’s a sanctuary of inclusivity, class, and serenity. This exceptional cafe goes past serving excellent espresso and attractive meals by empowering differently-abled people, and offering them with coaching and employment alternatives within the meals service business.
Step inside and uncover a singular mix of productiveness and rest. The cafe boasts a spacious co-working space, tailored for freelancers and distant employees searching for the best atmosphere to unleash their creativity and focus.
However Palette gives greater than only a workspace and your favourite cup – it’s a multifaceted gem. With an artwork studio, yoga heart, and social hub beneath its roof, it’s the last word backyard cafe in Nairobi. So, whether or not you’re right here to work, join with like-minded people, unwind, savor Kenyan espresso, or have a blast, Palette Cafe is the place to be.
Palette Cafe Info
Handle: Reverse Lavington Mall, alongside James Gichuru Highway
Telephone: +254 741 851 685
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7:30 am to six:30 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Salads, quite a lot of coffees and teas. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$5 per latte, $6-$12 per principal, $1-$3 for desserts
Web site: palletcafe.co.ke
5. Join Espresso Roasters (Greatest for Brewed Espresso and Beans)

Join Espresso is known for its dedication to serving Nairobi’s most interesting espresso. It prides itself on crafting espresso from freshly roasted beans, constantly guaranteeing essentially the most pure of drinks. It additionally lets prospects hint the espresso’s supply and perceive the manufacturing course of, offering a premium and healthful espresso expertise.
This roastery has established itself as one among Nairobi’s prime espresso brewers and sellers, with 4 strategically positioned cafes and outlets in Riverside Drive, Gigiri Complicated, Sanlam Towers, and Hurlingham. The Riverside Drive outlet is the preferred selection amongst espresso lovers.
Past their distinctive brewed espresso choice, patrons can bask in numerous menu choices, together with omelets, waffles, wraps, donuts, and delectable pastries. Join isn’t merely a espresso vacation spot; it’s a whole culinary expertise catering to the various tastes of its cherished prospects.
Join Espresso Roasters Info
Handle: At Riverfront constructing, Off 14th Riverside Drive
Telephone: +254 708 790 480
Working Hours: 8 am-7 pm (Monday-Saturday), 8 am-7 pm (Sunday)
Should-Strive Gadgets: Thai beef wraps, blueberry waffle, Juliet mix roasted beans. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$5 for espresso, $6-$10 per principal, $2-$4 for desserts
Web site: connectcoffee.web
6. Spring Valley Espresso (Greatest for Varied Flavors of Kenyan Espresso)

I completely love Spring Valley cafes. Their espresso is unimaginable and is roasted by hand with a lot love. The employees is all the time pleasant and welcoming, making each go to a pleasure. Whereas they don’t supply a full meals menu, their espresso, scorching chocolate, and snacks hit the spot.
Spring Valley Espresso has numerous cafes throughout Nairobi, together with Karen, Wilson Airport, Village Market, and Westgate Mall. I usually go to their Spring Valley Buying Heart location, which is small and enjoyable – excellent for having fun with a cup whereas studying a guide or grabbing a takeaway.
Apart from their lovely cafes, additionally they promote mocha bombs and low baggage (beans and floor). Their espresso choice consists of Espresso, Elgon, and Connoisseur (my favourite, sourced from the central highlands of Kenya).
Spring Valley Espresso Cafe Info
Handle: At Spring Valley Buying Heart, alongside Decrease Kabete Highway
Telephone: +254 708 709 709
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7 am to 9 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Connoisseur espresso beans, snacks, mocha bombs
Common Value: $1-$4 per espresso cup, $3-$9 for snacks
Web site: springvalleycoffee.com
7. Tin Roof Café (Greatest for Recent Air, Pretty Environment, and Espresso)
Tin Roof Café serves domestically roasted espresso, wholesome meals, juicy burgers, and contemporary wraps and sandwiches. It’s a peaceable escape from the busy metropolis and purchasing malls, with a captivating setting and a heat, cozy ambiance. The cafe’s outside, backyard eating space is a breath of contemporary air, they usually also have a youngsters’ playground for a family-friendly expertise.
While you go to Tin Roof Café in Karen, you’ll discover a workforce of pleasant employees able to make your expertise pleasing. Whether or not you wish to loosen up, hang around with pals, or get by some work, they provide indoor and patio seating to cater to your wants. With its rustic and quaint ambiance, this cafe is ideal for a serene espresso break or an informal meal in Nairobi.
Tin Roof Café Info
Handle: At The Home of Treasures alongside Dagoretti Highway in Karen
Telephone: +254 748 259 066
Working Hours: Day by day, from 8 am to five:30 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Chai latte, superfood salad, fajita burger. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 for espresso, $8-$14 per principal, $3-$5 for desserts
Web site: tinroof.cafe
8. Lava Latte (Greatest for Breakfast and Working)
This cafe in Nairobi is stuffed with life, bringing collectively numerous flavors and a heat ambiance. Whether or not you’re in search of freshly brewed espresso, scrumptious meals, or a pleasant place to hang around, Lava Latte gives a fantastic expertise that leaves you craving extra.
Along with providing culinary delights, Lava Latte is a spot to attach for artwork lovers. Right here, you’ll discover cozy, lovely artworks both created by their patrons or sourced domestically. The cafe additionally holds numerous occasions, comparable to “paint and sip,” all through the week.
For those who’re seeking to get some work completed, the cafe gives a quiet atmosphere to be productive whereas having fun with the fantastic thing about nature. It options free WiFi, charging socket retailers, and comfy areas to arrange your laptop computer.
Lava Latte Info
Handle: 209 Statehouse Highway
Telephone: +254 757 119 064
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7:30 am to 9 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Home espresso, caramel latte, Nairobi breakfast. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $3-$5 for espresso, $6-$11 per principal, $3-$6 for desserts
Web site: lavalatte.com
9. The River Café (Greatest Espresso Store in Nairobi for Nature Lovers)
Located inside Karura Forest, The River Café is a perfect vacation spot for people who recognize nature, get pleasure from biking, or are passionate about climbing. This outside espresso store and restaurant seamlessly mix journey, delectable delicacies, and tranquility.
Notably, its huge open area with excessive ceilings additionally earns its recognition as one among Nairobi’s prime cafes, providing picturesque views.
Other than very good espresso and tea choices, their menu boasts an array of pleasant meals, pastries, and desserts. I extremely advocate indulging of their all-day breakfast that includes the proper mixture of steak and eggs. This dish features a pan-fried beef fillet, roast potatoes, two eggs ready to your liking, and a grilled tomato.
The River Café Info
Handle: At Karura Forest alongside Limuru Highway
Telephone: +254 725 969 891
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7:30 am to six:30 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Cappuccino, all-day breakfast, bacon cheeseburger. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per latte, $6-$10 per principal, $3 for desserts
Web site: therivercafekenya.com
10. Ethos Natural Cafe (One of many Greatest Vegan Espresso Outlets in Westlands)
Ethos is a captivating little cafe in Westlands, Nairobi, providing a pleasant ambiance and farm-fresh dishes. As a neighborhood, it’s simply one among my favourite espresso outlets within the space. The inside is adorned with fascinating wall artwork items, creating a shocking ambiance excellent for having fun with drinks, enjoyable, and eating.
What actually distinguishes Ethos is its unwavering dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, making it the best choice for environmentally aware people.
Because it’s a vegan restaurant, its menu boasts scrumptious plant-based choices such because the Kama Kuku nuggets and banana porridge (enhanced with nuts and cinnamon). Moreover, they provide espresso lovers like me an excellent choice of Kenyan varieties, together with AA and Arabica.
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Ethos Natural Cafe Info
Handle: On the Ananas Centre, reverse Sarit Centre Mall
Telephone: +254 111 809 200
Working Hours: Day by day, from 9 am to 9 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Kama Kuku burger, banana porridge, Kiambu AA filter espresso. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per espresso, $6-$11 per principal
Web site: ethos.co.ke
11. Wasp and Sprout (Greatest for Espresso and Homewares)
Wasp and Sprout is a comfy, family-owned espresso store in Nairobi’s upscale Loresho neighborhood. It’s a restaurant and distinctive retailer providing domestically crafted furnishings and homewares. Inside, you’ll discover a fantastically embellished area with rustic tables, plant vases, and cozy cushions made with lovely ankara cloth, making it the proper spot to loosen up with pals or get pleasure from a espresso whereas studying a guide.
With a dedication to sourcing contemporary, native substances, Wasp and Sprout ensures that each chunk and sip is a memorable expertise. So, whether or not you’re in search of a pleasant place to meet up with pals or searching for inspiration on your residence, this cafe and retail store gives an excellent ambiance for espresso and design lovers.
Wasp and Sprout Info
Handle: On the previous Loresho purchasing heart, alongside Loresho Grove
Telephone: +254 799 873 422
Working Hours: 8 am-4 pm (Monday-Thursday), 8 am till late (Friday), 8 am-5 pm (Saturday-Sunday)
Should-Strive Gadgets: French press espresso, sprout burger, chilaquiles. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per espresso, $7-$13 per principal, $3-$5 for desserts
Web site: waspandsprout.com
12. Kista Caffè (One of many Greatest Espresso Outlets in Nairobi CBD)
Kista is without doubt one of the greatest espresso locations in Nairobi CBD. It has three spots within the metropolis heart, together with Kenyatta Avenue, Avenue Hospital, and Banda Avenue (my favourite). Right here, you possibly can get pleasure from a cup of freshly brewed cappuccino or a plate of scrumptious meals whereas catching up with pals or colleagues.
The cafe is a real gem with a fantastic ambiance that I like. Its inside design is improbable, creating a comfy and alluring ambiance. The exemplary and environment friendly service additionally units this cafe aside; the employees are extremely pleasant and courteous, making each go to a pleasant expertise.
Kista is greater than only a excellent spot to seize a cup of espresso. It’s additionally among the best cafes to work from in Nairobi, with a improbable atmosphere for productiveness.
Kista Caffè Info
Handle: Alongside Banda Sreet, Nairobi
Telephone: +254 700 207 272
Working Hours: Day by day, from 6:30 am to 10 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Cappuccino, rooster Monalisa burger, Kista breakfast. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$5 for espresso, $7-$15 per principal, $3-$5 for desserts
Web site: kistacaffe.com
13. Geco Café (Greatest for Artwork, Meals, and Dwell Music)
Nairobi cafes are recognized for his or her distinctive mix of tradition and experiences, and Geco Café is not any exception. This vibrant cafe is greater than only a espresso store. It’s a spot the place meals, style, artwork, and music mix to create a energetic ambiance that embodies good vibes and creativity.
It gives a various menu with numerous drinks, together with expertly ready espresso. Their culinary experience extends past drinks to meals, with a menu that encompasses a vary of dishes from mouthwatering pizzas, together with classics like pepperoni and Hawaiian, to completely cooked steaks that cater to totally different tastes.
One other standout characteristic of Geco Café is its position as a house for reside music. They repeatedly host prime artists for reside band performances, including a melodic contact to your expertise – no matter your musical preferences. Geco additionally has an on-site automobile wash and storage for added comfort, making it a real one-stop vacation spot.
Geco Café Info
Handle: Lavington, alongside Mbaazi Highway
Telephone: +254 792 489 449
Working Hours: Day by day, from 8 am to 11 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Latte, cocktails, beef rump steak. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$5 for espresso, $6-$11 per principal, $3-$7 for cocktails
Web site: gecotribe.com
14. Kesh Kesh Roastery & Café (Greatest for Working and Meals)
Nestled within the Kilimani neighborhood, Kesh Kesh Roastery & Café is without doubt one of the greatest cafes and low outlets in Nairobi. Right here, you possibly can savor beautiful dishes expertly complemented by brewed espresso, all inside the embrace of its inviting, lovely ambiance.
Whether or not you favor cozy indoor seating or the al fresco appeal of an outside space, Kesh Kesh caters to various eating preferences. It’s best for these searching for an intimate meal with family members and guests may also study the specialty espresso course of from their roastery or purchase some Eritrean beans to brew at residence.
Apart from its espresso and meals, the café goes the additional mile by providing a conducive atmosphere for work. Digital nomads and freelancers can get pleasure from complimentary WiFi, making it an excellent spot to arrange your workstation.
Kesh Kesh Roastery & Café Info
Handle: At Chaka Residences, alongside Chaka Highway
Telephone: +254 724 131 700
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7 am to 10 pm
Should-Strive Gadgets: Filter espresso, Kesh breakfast, backyard salad
Common Value: $2-$5 per espresso, $7-$16 per principal
Web site: keshkeshroastery.com
15. CJ’s Restaurant (Greatest for Milkshakes and Smoothies)
CJ’s Restaurant on Koinange Avenue is one other of my prime picks for the most effective cafes in Nairobi. Though it may well change into a bit crowded within the evenings, the ethereal area, lovely lighting, and comfy seats make it a nice expertise. I really like their inside design, which is attractive and genuinely inviting.
Along with nice meals and low, they serve essentially the most extremely candy plantains, and their milkshakes and smoothies are the most effective on the town. The pleasant waitstaff gives glorious customer support, guiding you thru their in depth menu. The costs are cheap for the standard you obtain, making it an ideal selection for dates, household outings, or enterprise conferences.
Whereas CJ’s has a number of areas throughout town, the Koinange Avenue department holds a particular place in my coronary heart. Their in depth menu gives the whole lot from breakfast to decadent desserts, and I extremely advocate attempting their basic tropical milkshakes, home espresso, and pepper steak combo.
CJ’s Restaurant Info
Handle: Alongside Koinange Avenue, Nairobi Metropolis Heart
Telephone: +254 800 720 003
Working Hours: 6:30 am-11 pm (Sunday-Thursday), 6:30 am to midnight (Friday-Saturday)
Should-Strive Gadgets: Home espresso, milkshakes, pepper steak. Click on right here to view the total menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per latte, $10-$18 per principal, $3-$7 for desserts
Web site: cjs.co.ke
Espresso Excursions in Nairobi
For those who’re a espresso lover or just curious concerning the magic behind the proper cup, listed here are a number of coffee-related excursions in Nairobi that you simply may discover attractive:
Nairobi Espresso Farm and Manufacturing unit Tour
With this guided tour, you’ll go to Fairview Espresso Property and immerse your self in Kenyan espresso making. You’ll see the espresso shrubs and study each step of the method; from planting and selecting to roasting and brewing.
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Espresso Farm Tour Close to Nairobi
On this behind-the-scenes guided tour, you’ll achieve an insider’s perspective on Kenya’s vibrant espresso business. You’ll have the possibility to discover a working espresso farm simply exterior Nairobi and witness the entire journey of crafting Kenyan espresso, from the farm to your cup. You’ll uncover the expansion of espresso bushes and even get to roast your personal beans.
Kiambethu Tea Farm Tour
Espresso and tea rising in Kenya go hand-in-hand. Be a part of this tour to expertise the tea rising and selecting course of. You’ll be taken to Kiambethu Tea Farm, the place you’ll obtain an expert-led tour of the plantation. Throughout this time, you’ll study, soak up lovely views of the highlands, and later loosen up as you get pleasure from a improbable cup of Kenyan tea.
Nairobi Cafes and Espresso Outlets FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to well-liked questions on the most effective cafes in Nairobi:
Nairobi gives a various vary of cafes to fulfill numerous tastes. My favorites embody ArtCaffé, Java Home, and Ethos Natural Cafe. Every of those cafes has its distinctive appeal and menu.
Tipping is usually appreciated in Nairobi, particularly in cafes and eating places. A tip of 10%-15% of the invoice is customary to point out appreciation for good service.
For espresso lovers, Karen and Westlands are among the many greatest neighborhoods to discover. They boast a vibrant cafe scene, providing a mixture of cozy and stylish spots to work, loosen up, and revel in espresso. Nairobi metropolis heart can be residence to many improbable espresso outlets.
Completely! In Nairobi, you’ll discover among the world’s greatest espresso beans sourced from the Kenyan highlands. This espresso is understood for its floral and fruity notes, making it a must-try for espresso lovers.
On common, a cup of espresso in Nairobi ranges from $2-$6. This depends upon the place you go and the kind of espresso you order. Specialty coffees could be on the upper finish of that vary.
Sure, espresso is kind of well-liked in Nairobi. Many locals and expats get pleasure from hanging out for a very good cup of espresso, and also you’ll discover cafes crammed with prospects all through the day.
Java Home and ArtCaffé are sometimes thought-about among the greatest espresso store chains in Kenya. They’ve many areas in Nairobi and supply quite a lot of espresso blends and scrumptious pastries.
To Summarize
As you possibly can see, Nairobi cafes have one thing for each espresso lover, providing quite a lot of decisions. From the relaxed setting of Java Home to the comfortable ambiance at ArtCaffé and flavorful delights at Cafe Deli, town’s espresso tradition is a good expertise.
As a espresso fanatic who has visited a lot of the greatest cafes in Nairobi, I encourage you to discover the wealthy world of espresso on this exceptional metropolis. Varied spots await to welcome you with open arms and a freshly brewed cup of perfection.
No matter whether or not you’re a neighborhood or a vacationer, take the possibility to embark on this caffeinated journey. Treasure each sip, share your favorites with pals, and carry some beans residence to brew and savor at your leisure.
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