Top Breakfast Spots In Nairobi

Written by The Kenyan Food Nerd | Zainab

“Who cares if you gain a few pounds over the holidays?” Because holidays are all about eating, right? My advice may seem a little off-track compared to the other tips you’ve likely heard, but you don’t need to deprive yourself, eat only boring foods, or take your treats with a side order of guilt. Instead, by practising a bit of defensive eating- eat a good breakfast and skip lunch, you can tick off ‘go on a diet’ as one of your New Year’s resolutions. People usually don’t take their breakfast habits seriously. Breakfast kickstarts your metabolism, helping you burn calories throughout the day. It also gives you the energy you need to get things done and helps you focus at work or at school. Those are just a few reasons why it’s the most important meal of the day. This city is full of hidden gems- from modern and chic to rustic and cozy spots. It’s your pick, what do you feel up to? And no matter what type of morning meal you prefer—a cup of strong coffee with a croissant or a full plate of eggs, sausages, and potatoes—we’ve got you covered.

TIN ROOF CAFÉ

Photography by Peter Ndungu

With their two locations on Langata Road and in Karen, this casual-cool restaurant is known for its great ambience, great services and super-friendly staff. They use locally produced ingredients to assemble their meals that are just as flavorful as they are colourful. The open-air dining area boasts stunning views of the garden making it a great meal-time scenery. This hidden gem is surrounded by colourful Kangas and Kikoys of Langata link shops. We ordered their delicious berry and chia smoothie bowl with Tahini and Greek yoghurt sprinkled with their home-made granola and their spinach and feta omelette topped with greens- that was made to perfection.

LE GRENIER À PAIN

Photography by Peter Ndungu

This chic and sophisticated bakery and restaurant will remind you of dainty patisseries that line the streets in Paris. Located along Riverside drive, this place is a piece of Paris in Kenya. From the modern interiors to the warm and genuine décor, everything is very French-like. Whether you’re looking for your breakfast options, or a quick snack or something to soothe your sweet tooth, you’ll be spoilt for choice at this food haven. You will be welcomed by the aroma of freshly baked goodies that will make you want to sit down, order a hot cup of coffee and browse through their wide range of breakfast options that include typical eggs options, crepes, granolas, pastries and much more!

BRIOCHE

Located at the recently-built spaces at the Alchemist, Brioche is where traditional meets modernity in both food and interiors. The restaurant is most impressive being the treehouse - built into an around the huge tree. Their menu consists of EuroAfrique (Europe and African fusion). On a ‘no-cooking Sunday’ we thought of having something exciting and visited Brioche - and we couldn’t have made a better choice! The hubby ordered the continental brunch and I being a sweet tooth had the French toast topped with vanilla custard cream. They say, good food is way to someone’s heart, and this definitely hit the spot!

URBAN EATERY

At the heart of Nairobi, this classy restaurant with cosy sofas and unique tables, distressed wood floors, and artful pendant lights make for a seriously serene escape from the hustle and bustle outside. From the traditional British fry-up in all its guises to Danish and French pastries and wonderfully made breakfast combos, this trendy spot venue ticks all the breakfast/ brunch boxes. They serve decent coffees too. We ordered their ‘Kings breakfast’ that consisted of buttermilk pancake, barbeque sausages, bacon, baked beans, sausages and omelette of your choice. This was an ideal breakfast to fuel up our day.

Try these other spots whose breakfasts are picture perfect, filling and delicious:

- CJ’s (All Branches)

- Charlie’s Bistro (All Branches)

- Mugg & Bean (Village Market & Sarit Centre)