The holy month of Ramadan is a special time in Nairobi, with the city’s Muslim community coming together to observe the daily fast and then breaking it each evening with the Iftar meal. If you’re visiting Nairobi during Ramadan, joining in this centuries-old tradition by sharing an Iftar feast is a cultural experience not to be missed. Here are some of the top restaurants and venues in Nairobi to catch your Iftar:
Anghiti Restaurant (Westlands)
This elegant Lebanese restaurant is a perennial favorite for Iftar in Nairobi. Their special Ramadan set menu features a lavish spread of hot and cold mezzeh, refreshing juices and jallab, and main courses like succulent kebabs and rich stews. The warm ambiance and impeccable service make it a refined spot to break the fast.
Marhaba Grounds (South B)
This casual outdoor eatery hosts lively Iftar parties every night, with a buffet of Somali staples like bariis, maraq hilib, and baasto chicken. Wash it down with a cup of spiced shaah cadey tea. The family-friendly vibe, with outdoor tents and activities for kids, makes it particularly popular during Ramadan.
Mughlai Terrace (Parklands)
For a regal Iftar experience, Mughlai Terrace is hard to top. This high-end restaurant has special Mughal-inspired set menus during Ramadan, featuring delicacies like slow-cooked Awadhi biryani and creamy shahi tukda for dessert. The historical decor and live entertainment create an atmospheric setting.
The Mayura (Karen)
Want to combine your Iftar with a scenic getaway? Make the short drive to this countryside lodge to enjoy their Iftar BBQ Buffet on the lush grounds. You’ll find all the traditional hot and cold dishes, plus freshly grilled meat and vegetable skewers. A tranquil way to break the fast while in Nairobi.
Iftar Street Markets (CBD and Eastleigh)
For an immersive cultural experience, join the crowds breaking their fast at the temporary Iftar markets that pop up around the central business district and in Little Mogadishu (Eastleigh) each evening. Vendors serve up flaky Somali, Ethiopian and coastal delicacies – from fried kebabs to sweet cambuulo – at affordable prices.
No matter where you go to break your fast, sharing an Iftar meal in Nairobi during Ramadan is sure to be a highlight of your visit to Kenya’s vibrant capital city.
