Caramel Restaurant Nairobi burst into the scene in 2014 after a controversial article was published about it in the New York Times. Unlike 99.9% of restaurants in Nairobi, Caramel has white waiters and waitresses, a real novelty in a city where “”muzungu,” or foreigners, are almost exclusively diplomats, business people, and tourists.

Located in ABC Place, this atmospheric eatery has a modern European setting and food that reflects this. Their signature dish is the delectable mac and cheese, which draws hordes of people willing to pay surprisingly steep prices. I love the mac and cheese but would also recommend trying other dishes like the Chinese chicken salad, which I have every time I visit.

The desserts are also excellent here — they make the best cheesecake and sorbets. And the wine and spirits are also a huge draw; the bar is stacked with expensive bottles from all over the world and it swarms with people seeking a good time. 

The restaurant is very large, with a wide choice of seating areas. Despite its size, it is wise to call and reserve early because they have popular “theme” nights, like the Wednesday ladies night, which attract a lot of diners. There are private lounges and rooms for VIP meetings, which usually involve rich folks smoking expensive cigars.

If you come to Nairobi looking for a great time, this is the place to go. The service is excellent and the waiters are prompt to bring your order. The hostesses are invariably beautiful women clad in short, smart dresses. It is a nice escape from the chaos of Nairobi.