Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, may not be a coastal town, but it is certainly a hub for seafood enthusiasts.
With its diverse culinary scene and proximity to the Indian Ocean, Nairobi has plenty of seafood restaurants that offer a wide range of dishes made with fresh seafood.
From grilled prawns to crab curry, Nairobi’s seafood restaurants serve up some of the best dishes in the city.
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual lunch or a fancy dinner, there’s a seafood restaurant for every occasion.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best seafood restaurants in Nairobi, from the popular local spots to the upscale fine-dining destinations.
Seafood restaurants
Seafood restaurants are establishments that specialize in serving various types of seafood dishes to their customers.
These restaurants may feature a wide range of seafood options, including fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, prepared in various ways such as grilled, fried, baked, or steamed.
Some seafood restaurants may also offer vegetarian or vegan options to cater to a wider range of customers.
The ambiance and decor of seafood restaurants can vary from casual and laid-back to upscale and sophisticated.
Some restaurants may have a rustic coastal theme, while others may feature a more modern and contemporary design.
Many seafood restaurants also feature a bar area where customers can enjoy cocktails, beer, or wine alongside their meals.
Seafood restaurants are popular in coastal regions and areas with a strong fishing culture, but they can be found in many different parts of the world.
They may be independently owned and operated, or part of a larger chain or franchise.
Many seafood restaurants also offer catering services and private dining options for special events and occasions.
List of seafood restaurants in Nairobi
Below is a simplified table showing a list of the best seafood restaurants in Nairobi.
| Name | Location | Google Ratings |
| Mawimbi Seafood Restaurant & Cafè | Longonot Place, Kijabe Street | 4.6 |
| Seven Seafood & Grill | Waiyaki Way | 4.5 |
| Sea Villians Seafood | Kikao Place, Gitanga Road | 4.6 |
| Samaki Samaki Seafood and Jazz | Othaya Road | 4.2 |
| Everything Fish Restaurant and Sports Bar | Ngong Road | 4.5 |
| Ocean Basket Westlands, The Oval | Ring Road, Parklands | 4.3 |
| Seafoods Center | Hurlingham Plaza, Argwings Kodhek Road | 4.5 |
| Oysters and More | Village Market | 4.5 |
| JikoTamu | Kikao Place, Gitanga Road | 4.9 |
| Gropper Seafood Shop & Grill | Gigiri Courtyard | 4.8 |
| 2 Fish | From Here to Home | Kilimani Road | 4.4 |
| Cafe Maghreb | Kenyatta Avenue | 4.4 |
| Mondo Grill | Othaya Road | 4.3 |
| Oyster Bay | Kilungu Road | 4.3 |
| Rozina’s Restaurant | Westlands | 4.5 |
| Crusty Crab Restaurant | Red Cross Road | 4.7 |
| Blue Tang Table | Silver Pool Suites | 4.2 |
| Talisman Restaurant | Ngong Road | 4.6 |
Things to consider when identifying the best seafood restaurants
There are several factors to consider when identifying the best seafood restaurants.
Here are some tips;
Quality of the seafood
The most important factor when it comes to seafood restaurants is the quality of the seafood they serve. Look for restaurants that source their seafood from reputable suppliers and offer a variety of fresh, sustainable options.
Menu variety
A good seafood restaurant should offer a wide variety of seafood dishes, including both traditional and creative preparations. Look for menus that feature a range of seafood types, such as fish, shellfish, and crustaceans.
Preparation techniques
The best seafood restaurants will have skilled chefs who know how to prepare seafood in a variety of ways, such as grilling, poaching, and frying.
Look for restaurants that take pride in their preparation techniques and are transparent about how they cook their seafood.
Atmosphere and ambiance
The atmosphere of a seafood restaurant can greatly impact your dining experience. Look for restaurants with a relaxed, comfortable ambiance that complements the food they serve.
Service
Excellent service is key to a great dining experience. Look for restaurants with attentive, knowledgeable servers who can offer recommendations and answer questions about the menu and seafood.
Reviews and recommendations
Online reviews and recommendations from friends and family can also be helpful when identifying the best seafood restaurants.
Check review sites like Yelp and TripAdvisor to see what other diners have to say about their experiences.
