Fine Dining
Fine dining in Mombasa offers a refreshing journey through a fusion of flavours, drawing inspiration from diverse culinary traditions and fresh local ingredients. From elegant seafood restaurants overlooking the Indian Ocean to sophisticated eateries showcasing international cuisine, Mombasa’s dining scene caters to discerning palates. Visitors can indulge in gourmet dishes crafted with precision and creativity, accompanied by impeccable service and exquisite ambience. Whether savouring succulent grilled seafood, aromatic Swahili delicacies, or innovative fusion cuisine, each dining experience promises to be a feast for the senses. Many fine dining establishments in Mombasa such as Tamarind also offer carefully curated wine lists, featuring selections from around the world to complement the flavours of each dish.
Street Food
Mombasa is a paradise for street food enthusiasts, with its bustling markets and vibrant street corners offering a diverse array of flavours and culinary delights. One popular destination for street food is the Old Town area, where visitors can sample Swahili specialities such as mahamri (sweet fried bread), viazi karai (spicy fried potatoes), and mishkaki (grilled meat skewers). Another must-visit spot is Mama Ngina Drive, a waterfront promenade lined with food stalls serving fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local snacks like cassava crisps and bhajias (spiced potato fritters). For those seeking a taste of East African cuisine, the Mwembe Tayari area is famous for its chapati (flatbread), samosas, and nyama choma (grilled meat). Whether you’re exploring the city’s markets or strolling along its bustling streets, Mombasa’s street food restaurants promise a flavorful and authentic culinary experience that reflects the vibrant culture of the region.
Indian BBQ
In Mombasa, Indian BBQ restaurants offer a fusion of aromatic spices and grilled flavours, creating a tantalising dining experience. One popular destination is Shaam E Bahaar, renowned for its BBQ stations serving succulent kebabs and tandoori specialities. Another favourite is Bollywood Bites, where diners can indulge in a variety of vegetarian dishes infused with Indian spices and flavours. These restaurants often feature an extensive menu showcasing a range of meats, seafood, and vegetarian options, all cooked to perfection on open flames or traditional tandoor ovens. With their vibrant ambience and flavorful dishes, Indian BBQ restaurants in Mombasa provide a delightful culinary journey for those craving the rich and diverse flavours of Indian cuisine.
Swahili Dishes
Swahili restaurants in Mombasa offer a delightful culinary journey through the rich and diverse flavours of coastal East Africa. One popular spot is Jahazi Coffee House, known for its authentic Swahili dishes such as biryani, and pilau, and seafood specialties like grilled fish and coconut-infused curries. For a taste of traditional Swahili cuisine in a vibrant setting, diners can visit Nawal Centre, where they can enjoy classic dishes like mahamri (sweet fried bread), viazi karai (spicy fried potatoes), and mishkaki (grilled meat skewers). These restaurants use fresh ingredients and spices to create dishes that reflect the region’s cultural heritage and culinary traditions. With their warm hospitality and flavorful offerings, Swahili restaurants in Mombasa provide an immersive dining experience that celebrates the rich tapestry of flavours found along the Swahili Coast.
Maasai Market
The Maasai market in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, has become a popular name especially for tourists. The market sells a wide range of African antiques and has become a convergence zone for locals and tourists searching for authentic African artisan products. These products are usually souvenirs for people to take home. Maasai Market is the best place to shop for your souvenirs while on your safari or beach holiday in Kenya. It is an open-air market with a broad selection of products to shop for, including African pots and pans, artwork, jewellery, shoes, purses, garments, and utensils.
The Beads Museum
Culture meets adventure with this tour of local crafts supporting the community of Maasai women.
The Beads Museum – located near Sekenani gate of Maasai Mara – displays a unique art of beaded artefacts: very aesthetic and colourful. The friendly and knowledgeable guides are happy to take you through the experience, even giving you a chance to make your own. The museum is the heart of Beats Of Beads Art Centre, where Maasai women are engaged in beading and can earn their money independently through their craft.
Almasi Art Agency
The Almasi Art Gallery is a vibrant cultural hub. It serves as a showcase for contemporary African art, featuring works by both established and emerging artists from Kenya and beyond. Visitors to the gallery can explore a diverse range of artistic expressions, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media installations, and more. The gallery’s exhibitions often highlight themes relevant to African culture, history, and social issues, allowing artists to share their unique perspectives and narratives. In addition to exhibitions, the Almasi Art Gallery hosts workshops, artist talks, and other events aimed at fostering dialogue and engagement within the local art community. With its dynamic and inclusive approach to showcasing African art, the gallery plays a vital role in promoting creativity, cultural exchange, and artistic appreciation in Diani and beyond.
Fort Jesus
Fort Jesus is a historic landmark located in Mombasa, Kenya, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, it stands as a testament to Mombasa’s rich and diverse history. The fort served as a military stronghold during the colonial era, witnessing numerous battles and changing hands between various European powers. Today, Fort Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mombasa’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the fort’s well-preserved ramparts, bastions, and dungeons, which offer insights into its tumultuous past. The fort also houses a museum that showcases artefacts, exhibits, and displays related to Mombasa’s maritime history, Swahili culture, and colonial heritage. With its commanding views of the sea and strategic location at the entrance to Mombasa’s harbour, Fort Jesus remains a symbol of resilience and endurance, inviting visitors to delve into the fascinating history of East Africa’s coastal region.
Ali Barbour’s Cave
Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant provides a magical dining experience in Diani. Set within a natural coral cave, the restaurant offers guests a one-of-a-kind ambience that blends nature with culinary excellence. The cave itself creates an intimate and atmospheric setting, with soft lighting illuminating the ancient rock formations and creating a sense of enchantment.
Sails Beach Bar and Restaurant
Located on the beachfront within Almanara Villas, this breathtaking piece of architecture is both stunning and unique. The sweeping sails and curving beams create an ambience unparalleled on the east coast of Africa. The Sails Beach Bar and Restaurant is a popular seaside destination and offers a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere where guests can enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, and stunning ocean views. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of culinary delights, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, salads, sandwiches, and more. Diners can savour their meals while feeling the gentle sea breeze and soaking in the breathtaking vistas of the Indian Ocean. It’s also known for its vibrant and welcoming ambience, making it the perfect spot for casual gatherings, sunset drinks, or romantic dinners by the beach.