Nairobi is a city with a rich Indian influence, thanks to the thousands of laborers brought from India by the British to build the Uganda Railway in the early 1900s. Many stayed on, bringing with them vibrant traditions, spices, and a deep culinary heritage that has shaped the capital’s food scene. Today, some of the best dining spots in Nairobi are Indian restaurants, offering everything from authentic curries and chaats to modern fusion dishes. Here are the top Indian restaurants in Nairobi that you must try.
Diamond Plaza
Known as the heart of Nairobi’s Indian community, Diamond Plaza is more than a mall—it’s a food and cultural hub. Walk through its busy food court and you’ll be surrounded by the aroma of curries, spices, and sizzling snacks. From fresh sugarcane juice to bhajias and curries, this is the go-to spot for affordable, authentic Indian meals.
Haandi
A legendary name in Nairobi’s dining scene, Haandi has mastered the art of Indian cooking. Their menu covers a wide spectrum of spice-rich curries and dishes infused with fresh cardamom, cinnamon, cumin, saffron, and fenugreek. Located on Waiyaki Way, it’s a family favorite and also popular for business dinners thanks to its elegant yet welcoming atmosphere.
Anghiti Restaurant
Anghiti offers a cozy, lively setting with an open kitchen that adds to the experience. The restaurant is celebrated for its chaats inspired by Old Delhi, rustic kebabs, and authentic tandoor dishes. Portions are generous, service is warm, and it’s a favorite among locals who want a traditional Indian meal at good value.
Clay Oven Restaurant
For fine dining with a twist, Clay Oven specializes in East Indian and Hakka cuisine—a blend of Chinese cooking with Indian spices. Founded in 2005, this upscale restaurant serves elevated Indian-Chinese fusion dishes in an elegant setting, making it one of the city’s pricier but unforgettable Indian food experiences.
Urban Eatery
A modern, multi-cuisine food court in Nairobi, Urban Eatery offers Japanese, Kenyan, Italian, and Mexican fare—but its Indian kitchen, run by Haandi, stands out. The sleek, contemporary atmosphere makes it perfect for everything from Sunday brunch to casual dinners, with curries served alongside international dishes.
Chowpaty
What began as a single small restaurant in Diamond Plaza has grown into Nairobi’s most popular vegetarian Indian restaurant chain. With three outlets in Westlands, Chowpaty serves a wide variety of vegetarian and paneer dishes. The atmosphere is always lively, often accompanied by live Indian music. Be sure to try their Dai Puri, a customer favorite.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack at Diamond Plaza, an elegant evening at Clay Oven, or a lively vegetarian feast at Chowpaty, Nairobi has something for every Indian food lover. The city’s Indian restaurants not only offer amazing meals but also showcase the cultural heritage and flavors that have shaped Nairobi for over a century.
