On March 8, 2025, the Nairobi Street Food Festival transformed the Jamhuri Showgrounds’ Main Arena into a hub of culinary delights, electrifying music, and cultural experiences. This 5th edition of the festival was the biggest and most exciting yet, drawing thousands of food lovers, music enthusiasts, and culture seekers for an unforgettable celebration of Nairobi’s rich street food culture and creative energy.
A Feast for the Senses
The festival showcased Nairobi’s dynamic street food scene, with vendors serving up a mix of local and international flavors. From beloved Kenyan classics like nyama choma, mutura, and viazi karai to exotic global bites, the event was a paradise for foodies. Attendees indulged in gourmet twists on street food, such as matoke burgers, ugali fries, and vegan-friendly chapati wraps, making it a true celebration of innovation and tradition.
Featured Vendors:
- Mama Oliech Kitchen: Known for its signature fish dishes and authentic Kenyan cuisine.
- Street Bites Nairobi: Famous for their smokies, bhajia’s, and kachumbari.
- Tamu Tamu Delicacies: Offering a variety of Swahili and coastal flavors.
- Nyama Base BBQ: Serving premium nyama choma and mbuzi choma.
- Brew & Bite: Pairing freshly brewed coffee with street-style snacks.
The festival also highlighted sustainable food initiatives, supporting local businesses and promoting Nairobi’s culinary diversity.
A Star-Studded Entertainment Lineup
The festival wasn’t just about food—it was a full-blown entertainment extravaganza! The main stage came alive with performances from some of Kenya’s biggest music stars and DJs, keeping the energy high throughout the day and into the night, such as Trio Mio, Sarabi Band, and Charisma, who delivered soulful and energetic performances.
Beyond Food & Music: Engaging Activities
The festival offered something for everyone, with interactive experiences and fun activities for all ages:
- The Kids Corner: A dedicated space with games, face painting, and storytelling.
- Cooking Demos & Challenges: Top chefs showcased their skills and engaged in live cooking battles.
- Cultural Showcase: Traditional Maasai performances, spoken word sessions, and street art exhibits.
- #NSFFWomenFirsts Trivia Challenge: A fun trivia competition celebrating inspiring women in Kenya’s history, in honor of International Women’s Day.
Attendee Feedback: A Festival to Remember!
The festival left attendees with full stomachs, happy hearts, and unforgettable memories. Social media buzzed with praise:
“The food was next level! I tried so many different things, and everything was delicious!”
“The performances were fire! Charisma and Trio Mio killed it!”
“This festival gets bigger and better every year! Can’t wait for the next one!”
Looking Forward to Nairobi Street Food Festival 2026!
The 5th edition of the Nairobi Street Food Festival was a resounding success, and anticipation is already building for the 2026 event. If you missed this year’s festival, mark your calendars for next year’s edition, promising even more flavors, vibes, and experiences.
Stay tuned at VisitNairobiKenya blog for more updates