In Nairobi, we take great pride in our friendships, relationships, hustles, and community. We are a busy bunch indeed, but we do not neglect our hospitality. We acknowledge that our success depends on one another. Our food, the way we cook with and for one another, and the delight of dining together are all examples of this.
We do not have a shortage of chill spots for that business meeting that you are hoping will finally seal the deal. Or that first date of a lifetime; You are both professionals short of time but if you have an hour in the morning, a breakfast date is definitely possible to start the day off right with; a filling, healthy breakfast that will keep you both thinking of one another all day. Or, if you are an early-bird freelancer searching for a quiet location to get some work done, a welcoming atmosphere, and delicious food, then you are home in Nairobi.
Here, I take you through a few excellent locations for that unforgettable breakfast. Some are so good; they may entice you to become a regular.
CJ’s (Café Javas)
This is a fully-fledged restaurant with 4 locations in Nairobi namely Koinange St. at the CBD, village market, Kilimani, and at waterfront Karen. Each of these locations features a unique ambiance, serene environment, and very tasteful décor. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee invites you in, a testament to the delicious coffee beans roasted on-site.
Sautéed potatoes, scrambled eggs, a pastry of your choice, coffee, and juice make up CJ’s delectable breakfast platter. In addition, you may choose from an array of coffee accompaniments available to you. CJ’s serves some of the fluffiest pancakes with honey or whipped cream, mouthwatering waffles, and muffins. A decent breakfast will run you approximately Kes. 2000 for two. WIFI is available if you need to do some work or hold online meetings. Treat yourself to CJ’s.
Al Yusra Restaurant
Located in Nairobi CBD on Biashara Street and adjacent to Jamia Mosque, Al Yusra opens at 7 am and stays in operation until 10 pm. If you are looking for a plug for Kenyan coastal cuisine with a touch of Arabian, Somali and Ethiopian delicacies, then this is the place to be. It offers both indoor and heated outdoor seating with free WIFI.
Al-Yusra is pretty affordable. A decent breakfast will set you back Kes. 1000 for two. There is an extensive menu to pick from. A samosa platter goes for Kes. 180 for 2 pieces. Swahili mahamri costs Kes. 100, while Chicken Shawarma costs Kes. 250, and it comes served with a side of fries with salad. A mug of brewed Kenyan tea, plain or spiced goes for Kes. 200 while a double espresso is Kes. 300. Keep in mind, these prices are applicable at the time of writing, in early 2023.
You should note though that breakfast serving ends at noon. Thereafter lunch is served. As a bonus, you should try out Al-Yusra’s Ethiopian Injera.
Coffee and Bagels- Lenana Road
This spot is perfect for coffee lovers. Although not surprising given its name, only coffee is served here and the bagels are made on-site, served fresh, with your choice of filling. Coffee served at this establishment is specialty brew ranging from rich French press coffee to lavish V60 brews and a variety of cold brews. Book lovers will find this coffee house perfect for a morning read accompanied by some great coffee and music. Check out this article in one of our local dailies with a genuine review of Coffee and Bagels. If this sounds like your ideal breakfast, then please do visit and indulge.
Shamba Café-Loresho
Shamba Café boasts a wonderful ‘farm-to-plate policy’ that ensures your meal is always served fresh. It is adorned by beautiful rustic décor made from the wood left over from the construction process. Shamba Café sits on an extensive 2-acre piece of land in Loresho where clients are served the freshest of foods and vegetables and a full bar. It is close enough to the city center but away enough from the traffic and brisk city life.
If you need a quiet breakfast with family and friends, a bit late in the morning, a weekend perhaps, then you will find Shamba café quite agreeable. There is plenty of room for children to play and you can bring your pets as well. There is also a farmers’ market on Saturdays where fresh farm produce and handmade products are sold. Shamba café stays closed on Mondays.
Nairobi offers so much in the way of breakfast locations and menu options. These are only a few highlights, but I hope you give Nairobi a chance to impress you and delight your palate.
Writer: Winnie Wekesa