Talisman is widely considered to be one of the best restaurants in Kenya — for good reason. The elegant gastro-lounge serves a fusion of European, Pan-Asian, and African cuisine; quality and service are consistently great. Try the warm feta and coriander samosas served with a chili ginger jam, or the grilled filet with bhajia potatoes (a potato patty mixed with vegetables and deep fried) and a spicy wasabi-mustard sauce. [$$]

This small cafe in the quiet neighborhood of Loresho has become popular for its great food, a comfortable atmosphere, and pocket-friendly prices. Visit during breakfast or brunch for ricotta pancakes, eggs Benedict, and baked goods. Bring a book and make yourself at home for a few hours. [$]

The Arbor is an eco-friendly cafe set in a lush garden that also has a furniture store, a luxury cosmetics shop, and a small mani-pedi salon on its grounds. With an eclectic menu, featuring both Southeast Asian and international cuisine, this tiny eatery is a perfect place to unwind. Be sure to try the chicken wings and fried wontons. [$]

Kenyans have quickly come to love Mama Ashanti, a restaurant that serves West African food, specializing in Ghanaian recipes. West African cuisine is known for its spice and caters best to those who can handle lots of chili. Favorites include egusi (fish), pepe (a fiery goat soup), and plantains (both spiced and non-spiced). [$]

British gastropub J’s had a lot of success among both expats and locals at its first location in the Nairobi suburb of Karen. In October, J's opened a second branch in Westlands, the neighborhood that’s home to most of the city’s bars and restaurants. The new J’s is larger, and, with more outdoor seating and a built-in DJ booth, it delicately balances the atmosphere of a full-service restaurant with nightlife ambiance. Here, you'll find weekly events, like old-school hip-hop and R&B on Tuesdays and Thursday Night Live, a showcase for local bands. [$$]

Located in the residential neighborhood of Kilimani, Mama Oliech is Nairobi’s hidden gem. The restaurant is best known for its large whole deep-fried lake fish from Lake Nakuru; order it with sides of ugali and kachumbari. It’s a particularly popular destination for hungry office employees who make the trek for lunch on Fridays. It's a must visit for fresh fish lovers. [$]

Roadhouse, a local nyama choma spot, is famed for its maji maji grilling technique, which produces tender, medium-rare roasted meat (usually goat). Dig into the maji maji with your hands, and order sides of ugali (a stiff cornmeal porridge) and kachumbari (a tomato and onion salsa), just like the locals do. [$]

Le Grenier à Pain, a French bakery, opened its first branch in Africa right here in Nairobi. What started as a small bakery in the basement of a corporate building in June of 2016 is now a cafe in a quiet, peaceful setting. Here, you'll find croissants, quiches, croque madames, and more delicacies that are as traditional as you can get this far from France. [$$]

This Japanese spot has been around since the ‘90s and is a popular destination for sushi lovers. There’s an extensive sushi and sashimi menu where you’ll find classic and speciality rolls; another section offers Korean favorites such as kimchi and bulgogi. One of the most exciting experiences is the eight- to 10-course teppanyaki grill meals which are a culmination of sushi, meat, and vegetables. [$$]

This funky food truck is Nairobi’s first, serving up a variety of delicious African-inspired gourmet burgers from its communal space at the Yard. The Mango Masai Mama, inspired by East Africa with its mango and red bell peppers, is a must-try. The beef patty is topped with Mama’s signature chili mango sauce, cheddar cheese, and sweet roasted bell pepper. [$]

Havana Restaurant & Bar sits on Westlands’ “electric avenue” — a strip of bars with so much weekend traffic that the streets are as busy at 3 a.m. as others are at midday. This venue is small, with two floors and great DJs that spin club music. It’s the perfect spot to experience Kenyan nightlife. If you’re not one for a late night out, head to Havana at around 6 p.m. to take advantage of the more relaxing music and great food. Try the pressed pork belly or a chicken burger with a side of crispy onion rings. [$]

Connect Coffee is a small cafe that follows the coffee-making process from bean to brew to bring its customers the most consistent cup. Connect sources its coffee from farmers in Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia, and specializes in modern brewing methods, using Chemex and Kalita Wave Drippers for pour-over coffee and Espro Presses for French press coffee. Call in advance to reserve a cup of Connect’s cold brew in either the fruity, floral Juliet or their signature Romeo blend. [$]

Sno-Cream in the Central Business District is a local favorite, and not just for its perfect soft-serve ice cream. Walking into the space is like walking into a ‘70s ice cream parlor. Its charming retro decor is the perfect place to share a banana split or a soft serve cone with sprinkles. [$]