Nairobi may be far from the coast, but the city has built a strong reputation as a destination for fresh seafood lovers. Thanks to daily deliveries from Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline and imports from abroad, the capital offers a wide variety of fish and shellfish prepared in both international and local styles. Whether you crave sushi, lobster, or freshly fried tilapia, this Nairobi seafood guide has the top places you should explore.
Seven Seafood & Grill
Located at ABC Place, Waiyaki Way, Seven Seafood & Grill is one of Nairobi’s premier seafood destinations. Known for its Kilifi oysters, the restaurant sources fresh seafood daily, ensuring unmatched quality. The menu features creative dishes like Crab Bao, Whole Catch Ceviche, Moroccan fish skewers, and a range of shellfish platters. It’s a must-visit for those who want fine dining with a coastal touch.
📍 Seven Seafood & Grill, ABC Place, Westlands | ☎ +254 737 776 677
Ocean Basket
A popular South African seafood chain, Ocean Basket quickly became a favorite among Nairobi residents. Located at The Oval in Westlands, it offers a wide range of seafood platters, sushi, calamari, prawn tails, and grilled fish such as Norwegian salmon. The Pick of the Ocean and Full Deck Platters are especially popular for sharing with friends and family.
📍 Ocean Basket, The Oval, Westlands | ☎ +254 770 227 538
Tokyo Japanese Restaurant
For lovers of sushi and lobster, Tokyo Japanese Restaurant in Lavington is a hidden gem. With its traditional sushi bar, teppanyaki area, and garden seating, it combines Japanese elegance with Nairobi’s charm. Their sushi and champagne pairings are perfect for special occasions, while their lobster dishes rival the best in town.
📍 Tokyo Japanese Restaurant, Kolloh Road, Nairobi | ☎ +254 722 485 556
Tamarind Nairobi
One of the city’s most celebrated seafood spots, Tamarind Nairobi on Karen Road serves an exquisite selection of lobsters, squid, oysters, and octopus. Known for its fine dining and exceptional service, Tamarind is frequently listed among Nairobi’s top restaurants.
📍 Tamarind Nairobi, Karen Blixen, Karen Road | ☎ 0719 346 349 / 0733 603 065
Sushi in Nairobi
Sushi has grown in popularity across Nairobi, with several restaurants specializing in it. Top picks include:
- Furusato Japanese Restaurant
- 88 at Villa Rosa Kempinski
- Cheka Japanese Izakaya
- Phoenician
- Ocean Basket
These venues offer a mix of traditional rolls, sashimi, and innovative fusions with Kenyan seafood.
Lobster Dishes
For lobster enthusiasts, several Nairobi restaurants give this delicacy a unique twist. Seven Seafood & Grill serves a signature Smoked Slipper Lobster Bao, while Tamarind Nairobi and Tokyo Japanese Restaurant are also renowned for their lobster menus. Freshness and creative presentation make these spots unmissable.
Fried, Dried & Grilled Fish Markets
Seafood culture in Nairobi goes beyond high-end restaurants. Fried tilapia from Lake Victoria is a staple across the city, often cooked in woks or on charcoal grills in roadside eateries and kibandas. Prices range from KSh 200 to KSh 500 depending on size and location.
For those who enjoy preserved fish, City Market and other open-air markets offer dried fish varieties, including omena, a small sardine-like fish often made into rich stews. These markets remain an important part of Nairobi’s seafood scene.
Final Thoughts
From fine dining at Seven Seafood & Grill to the rustic charm of fried tilapia at Nairobi’s open-air markets, the capital has something for every seafood lover. This Nairobi seafood guide proves that even an inland city can rival coastal towns when it comes to fresh, flavorful, and creative seafood experiences.
