Where to Eat in Mombasa: Best Restaurants & Local Eateries

Mombasa is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of Swahili, Indian, Arabic, and international cuisines. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, authentic Swahili dishes, or fine dining, Mombasa has something for every palate. Here are some of the best places to eat in Mombasa:

1. Tamarind Mombasa – Best for Seafood & Fine Dining

πŸ“ Location: Nyali
🍽 Specialties: Lobster, prawns, crab, and grilled fish
🌟 Why Visit? A top-tier seafood restaurant with stunning ocean views. Ideal for romantic dinners and special occasions.

2. Forodhani Restaurant – Authentic Swahili Cuisine

πŸ“ Location: Old Town
🍽 Specialties: Biryani, pilau, samosas, and Swahili coffee
🌟 Why Visit? Enjoy traditional Swahili flavors while overlooking the Indian Ocean. Perfect for cultural food experiences.

3. Char-Choma Restaurant – Best for Nyama Choma (Grilled Meat)

πŸ“ Location: Nyali
🍽 Specialties: Nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali, kachumbari
🌟 Why Visit? A favorite for those who love Kenyan-style grilled meats and a lively atmosphere.

4. Monsoon Restaurant – Italian & Swahili Fusion

πŸ“ Location: Old Town Mombasa
🍽 Specialties: Seafood pasta, calamari, coconut curry
🌟 Why Visit? A hidden gem in Old Town, offering a mix of Italian and coastal flavors.

5. Jahazi Coffee House – Best for Local Snacks & Tea

πŸ“ Location: Old Town
🍽 Specialties: Mahamri, chai, viazi karai, Swahili coffee
🌟 Why Visit? A cozy café serving delicious Swahili snacks and drinks in a historic setting.

6. The Moorings – Floating Restaurant with Ocean Views

πŸ“ Location: Mtwapa Creek
🍽 Specialties: Seafood platter, grilled lobster, cocktails
🌟 Why Visit? Kenya’s only floating restaurant, offering a unique dining experience on the water.

7. Galaxy Chinese Restaurant – Best for Chinese Cuisine

πŸ“ Location: Nyali
🍽 Specialties: Peking duck, dumplings, Szechuan chicken
🌟 Why Visit? Authentic Chinese flavors in an elegant setting.

8. Cafesserie – Best for Breakfast & Coffee Lovers

πŸ“ Location: City Mall, Nyali
🍽 Specialties: Fresh pastries, cappuccino, steak sandwiches
🌟 Why Visit? A top spot for a relaxing breakfast, brunch, or coffee break with a cozy atmosphere and freshly baked pastries.

9. Big Tree Beach Bar & Restaurant – Best for Casual Beach Dining

πŸ“ Location: Bamburi Beach
🍽 Specialties: Grilled seafood, burgers, nyama choma
🌟 Why Visit? A laid-back beachfront restaurant where you can enjoy delicious food with your feet in the sand.

10. Il Covo – Italian & Seafood Delights

πŸ“ Location: Bamburi Beach
🍽 Specialties: Pizza, pasta, seafood platters
🌟 Why Visit? A combination of authentic Italian cuisine and fresh seafood, perfect for a romantic dinner by the ocean.

11. Galaxy Resort & Lounge – Best for African & International Cuisine

πŸ“ Location: Nyali
🍽 Specialties: African dishes, grilled meats, cocktails
🌟 Why Visit? A vibrant spot offering both local and international meals with live music and entertainment.

12. Sea Haven – Hidden Gem for Fresh Seafood

πŸ“ Location: Mtwapa
🍽 Specialties: Coconut fish curry, grilled prawns, octopus stew
🌟 Why Visit? A family-friendly restaurant with a relaxed ambiance and authentic coastal flavors.

13. Roberto’s Pizzeria – Best Pizza in Mombasa

πŸ“ Location: Nyali
🍽 Specialties: Wood-fired pizza, calzones, pasta
🌟 Why Visit? Authentic Italian pizza made fresh in a wood-fired oven.

14. Java House – Best for Quick Bites & Coffee

πŸ“ Location: Nyali & Moi Avenue
🍽 Specialties: Coffee, burgers, wraps, milkshakes
🌟 Why Visit? A great option for quick meals, coffee, or snacks in a casual setting.

15. Swahili Pot – Traditional Coastal Dining

πŸ“ Location: Old Town
🍽 Specialties: Coconut rice, samaki wa kupaka (grilled fish in coconut sauce), spiced chai
🌟 Why Visit? A true taste of Swahili cuisine, served in an authentic coastal-style setting.


Where Should You Eat in Mombasa?

Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, traditional Swahili dishes, or international cuisine, Mombasa has plenty of dining options to satisfy every taste. From fine dining at Tamarind to casual beachside meals at Big Tree, there’s something for everyone.

Book a Food Tour with DamonQuest Tours!

Want to experience Mombasa’s best food spots with a local guide? DamonQuest Tours offers guided food tours that take you through the city’s best eateries for an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Contact us today to book your food tour in Mombasa! 🍽️🌊