Anyone visiting Nairobi should naturally try out the local Kenyan food (the native dishes are divine!), but the city also offers a wide range of excellent foreign or “ethnic” cuisines to try. Find out here which ones taste the best and will damage your wallet the least.

Masrawy Egyptian Restaurant

With a range of grilled dishes, desserts, falafel meals, and an accommodating vegetarian menu, Masrawy Egyptian Restaurant gives you a taste of Egypt at pocket-friendly prices, generally below $25 inclusive of service charges, even for the grill options that offer chicken and kebab options. Conveniently located a few minutes from the Nairobi Central Business District along Kindaruma Road, get to experience Egyptian cuisine with a Kenyan touch, at Masrawy.

Siam Thai Restaurant

With traditional Thai soups, seafood, lamb, pork, beef and chicken dishes, curries, and desserts, Siam Thai promises to give you a taste of Thailand and Kenyan hospitality. For those of you on a budget, you will be pleased to find every item on the menu below $20, including the main dishes and the more traditional rice and noodles meals. Vegetarians are also well catered to with an extensive vegetarian menu.

Asmara African Restaurant

Featuring a special kids menu to keep your little ones entertained, and dessert options to leave every sweet tooth smiling, Asmara is your go to spot for pocket-friendly Ethiopian dining. With seafood dishes, vegetarian meals as well as traditionally made and served Ethiopian food and even drinks, you are guaranteed to find something you’ll love.

Mama’s Fine French Patisserie

Touted as a slice of Paris right here in Nairobi, Mama’s hosts a mind-boggling variety of pastries and sweet treats guaranteed to be a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds. Prices generally range from $10-30, with ambience that is difficult to match.

Zapata Restaurant

Featuring over the top décor designed to keep it at the forefront of your mind, and packing a record 65+ types of tequila (largest in East Africa), Zapata restaurant welcomes you to enjoy a unique blend of Afro-Mexican cuisine. Nachos, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas; you name it- get your all time Mexican favorites and more, at Zapatas.

Xi’an Chinese Restaurant

With every item on the menu under $13, this is a Chinese restaurant dedicated to making sure you can enjoy your meal without worrying about the bill. With a warm décor in dark hues against brilliant reds, and vegan options for those so inclined, Xi’an will quickly make your list of go to restaurants in Nairobi. They won’t let you keep the giant fans on the wall, though. I asked!

Al Pasha Coffee Lounge and Bar

With an overarching Mediterranean theme and a view overlooking the Nairobi National Park, Al Pasha is a stop well worth your time. Coffee lovers will enjoy the vast selection of over 30 types available, along with the fan favorite, sheesha, in varying flavors. Enjoy Arab/Mediterranean food alongside superb cocktails without denting your wallet.

Bukhara Indian Restaurant

Fans of spicy dishes, you’re in for a treat! With authentic Indian cuisine prepared and served the original Indian way, this restaurant guarantees an enjoyable dining experience for both Indian food veterans and newbies alike.

Osteria del Chianti Gigiri

With branches spanning the city, the Osteria chain provides excellent service, savory Italian food and a fine selection of wines, all within budget-friendly prices. Enjoy the rustic ambience, classic Italian dishes and ice cream done right at Osteria.

La Mesa Espanola

Get your fix of Spanish cuisine tucked away in Westlands with La Mesa Espanola. Wallet-friendly prices meet an exquisite Spanish menu, featuring sea food, vegetarian options and everyone’s favorite dessert bitings 7 days a week.

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