Nairobi is where many visitors have their first proper Kenyan meal. Knowing the dishes makes it easy to order with confidence.
Dishes to look for
- Ugali: a firm maize porridge and one of the foods eaten across Kenya.
- Sukuma wiki: leafy greens similar to kale, usually served as a side. The name is linked to the Swahili phrase meaning to push the week.
- Nyama choma: grilled meat, usually goat or sheep, sometimes called an unofficial national dish. It is usually served with ugali, kachumbari and a bean stew.
- Chapati: a flatbread of Indian origin, commonly eaten with stew.
Food by region
Kenya’s food varies by region. The central highlands favour tubers such as sweet potato and cassava with beans. In the west, chicken with ugali is a favourite, and around Lake Victoria ugali is eaten with fish. In the Rift Valley, mursik is eaten with ugali. The coast has its own highly regarded cuisine built on fish and seafood. Nairobi has restaurants for all of these. See Kenyan food: what to eat on safari.
Eating well and safely
- Choose busy places where food is cooked fresh.
- Drink bottled or treated water. Read our health checklist.
- The UK government warns of methanol poisoning from adulterated drinks, so buy alcohol from reputable venues.
Dietary needs
Tell us about allergies and preferences when you book. See dietary needs on safari.
Make a day of it
Pair a meal with a morning at Nairobi National Park or the Giraffe Centre. For more ideas, see things to do in Nairobi.
How a typical meal fits together
Nyama choma is usually served with ugali, kachumbari, a bean stew and mchicha, a leafy green. Chapati is commonly eaten in towns with rice and stew. Sukuma wiki can also be made with cassava, sweet potato or pumpkin leaves.
Food and celebrations
Nyama choma is a traditional Christmas Day meal, and many urban Kenyans travel to rural hometowns for the holiday. See Kenya public holidays.
Ordering tips
- Ask what is cooked fresh that day.
- If you are unsure about a dish, ask what it is made from before you order.
- If you have a food allergy, tell the staff clearly and ask about ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
What is nyama choma?
Grilled meat, usually goat or sheep, often called an unofficial national dish. It is typically served with ugali and kachumbari.
What is ugali?
A firm maize porridge eaten across Kenya, usually with stew or vegetables.
What is sukuma wiki?
Leafy greens similar to kale, usually served as a side.
Can I tell you about dietary needs?
Yes. Tell us when you book and we will pass them on.
What is mchicha?
A leafy green often served alongside nyama choma.
What is kachumbari?
A fresh salad usually served with nyama choma and ugali.
Want help planning? Talk to our team and tell us your dates, who is travelling and what you would like to see.
Facts checked on 5 November 2026 from Wikipedia’s Kenyan cuisine entry (secondary source) and the UK government’s Kenya travel advice. We have not named restaurants because places open and close.
