Launched by a group of school teachers from Mombasa’s Aga Khan Academy in 2007, the vibe is African at the Jahazi Coffee House, but this time it seems more Moroccan than Kenyan. Not only do the letters of the coffee house’s name suggest that they’re written in Arabic script, but the doorway is carved in the traditional Arabian style and the decor is more seraglio than café.
Located on one of the narrow streets of Mombasa’s Old Town, just a couple of blocks from Fort Jesus, it provides a welcome respite from the heat and noise of the market.
Of course, the primary reason to come here is the coffee (said to be the best in town), but they also serve fresh fruit juices, milk shakes and smoothies (yes, well-behaved kids are welcome).
Try the Swahili coffee, even if you normally don’t drink flavored java. The spice medley hits just the right notes in this most traditional of coffee houses in the most traditional part of town.
Snacks such as samosas are available, but if you’re in a group of four or more, they can organize Swahili-style lunches and dinners.
It’s cool inside even with no air conditioning, because the louvered shutters on the windows are most often closed, the ceilings are high and fans keep the air moving.
Invariably described as cozy, the Jahazi has with lots of pillows, low tables and a house cat that will snuggle at the slightest provocation.
Surprisingly, it’s a non-profit operation, and proceeds help support community development projects in the Old Town.
The Jahazi includes a community learning center with space for conferences, art exhibits, music concerts and poetry readings. There’s even an internet café and a small library.
Expert Review
Launched by a group of school teachers from Mombasa's Aga Khan Academy in 2007, the vibe is African at the...
Launched by a group of school teachers from Mombasa’s Aga Khan Academy in 2007, the vibe is African at the Jahazi Coffee House, but this time it seems more Moroccan than Kenyan. Not only do the letters of the coffee house’s name suggest that they’re written in Arabic script, but the doorway is carved in the traditional Arabian style and the decor is more seraglio than café.
Located on one of the narrow streets of Mombasa’s Old Town, just a couple of blocks from Fort Jesus, it provides a welcome respite from the heat and noise of the market.
Of course, the primary reason to come here is the coffee (said to be the best in town), but they also serve fresh fruit juices, milk shakes and smoothies (yes, well-behaved kids are welcome).
Try the Swahili coffee, even if you normally don’t drink flavored java. The spice medley hits just the right notes in this most traditional of coffee houses in the most traditional part of town.
Snacks such as samosas are available, but if you’re in a group of four or more, they can organize Swahili-style lunches and dinners.
It’s cool inside even with no air conditioning, because the louvered shutters on the windows are most often closed, the ceilings are high and fans keep the air moving.
Invariably described as cozy, the Jahazi has with lots of pillows, low tables and a house cat that will snuggle at the slightest provocation.
Surprisingly, it’s a non-profit operation, and proceeds help support community development projects in the Old Town.
The Jahazi includes a community learning center with space for conferences, art exhibits, music concerts and poetry readings. There’s even an internet café and a small library.