According to research, spending 2 hours a week on dates can improve your relationship. Date nights are important for a healthy and successful relationship as they give couples a chance to spend quality time together and have fun.
However, many couples have had to reduce or completely forgo date nights due to challenging economic times. Having a romantic date night may require you to spend some money but you don’t have to break the bank. There are restaurants in Nairobi that offer a romantic ambience and delicious meals at pocket-friendly prices.
Here are some affordable restaurants in Nairobi for a date night.
Thorn Tree Café
Thorn Tree café has a rich history that dates back to the colonial period. It’s located on the ground floor of Sarova Stanley Hotel and offers a high-end culinary experience at pocket-friendly prices. The open-air bistro design exudes a pavement café ambience making it an ideal place for a romantic date night that will leave a lasting impression on your significant other. The prices at Thorn Tree Café are pleasantly surprising. For instance, you can enjoy a plate of steamed rice and seafood broth for Ksh 1600 or a pizza for Ksh 1500.
Kilimajaro Restaurant
If you’re a Swahili food lover, you know how hard it is to find a good and authentic Swahili restaurant in Nairobi. Most of the restaurants that claim to serve Swahili food don’t live up to the expectations. However, Kilimanjaro is one of the few restaurants in Nairobi that serve authentic Swahili food. Located in the heart of Nairobi, this restaurant offers a variety of Swahili dishes that have been prepared and served by a professional staff. The best part is most meals range from Ksh 500 to Ksh 800. Additionally, it prides itself on providing an ambience that strengthens bonds. It’s the perfect place to wine and dine your date without breaking the bank.
Cj’s
CJ’s is one of the most popular restaurants in the city offering great service, warm ambience and delicious meals at pocket-friendly prices ranging from Ksh 500 to Ksh 2000. The portions, presentation and quality of food at this restaurant are top-notch. Not to mention, the ambience is ideal for a romantic date night. However, they don’t serve alcoholic drinks so you’ll have to settle for juices, mocktails or milkshakes to accompany your meal. They have branches in the CBD, Village Market, Imaara and Waterfront Mall which close at 11 pm.
Mama Oliech
Mama Oliech is an iconic establishment that has been around for more than a decade. It boasts of serving the best fish in town which has attracted diners like Facebook Founder, Mark Zuckerberg and British actor Idris Elba. Apart from their famous Ugali and fish, they serve other Kenyan dishes such as Chapatti, fried plantain and rice. Their service is prompt and friendly ensuring that you have a pleasant experience. Prices range from Ksh 550 to Ksh 1200 and they open from 10.30 am to 11.30 pm.
Pallet Café
What’s more romantic than dining in a garden? Pallet café is a garden restaurant located in the leafy suburbs of Lavington. It gets its name thanks to its pallet theme which adds to the rustic and chilled ambiance. Despite its posh location, it offers affordable and diverse meals backed by great service. It’s important to note that Pallet Café hires deaf staff which is a first in Kenya. Nonetheless, the staff is very efficient and welcoming.
Utamu Restaurant
Utamu Restaurant is not only aesthetic pleasing but it also affordable. It’s located on the ground floor of Ibis Styles Hotel and it’s a great place for a quiet date night. It has a vibrant atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. The meals are tasty and served in generous portions. Main course meals range from Ksh 850 to Ksh 1700. A glass of wine is around Ksh 650 and a bottle of beer is around Ksh380.
Café Deli
This award-winning restaurant was established in 2007 with an aim to provide global cuisines with a Kenyan touch. They have managed to maintain their high standards throughout the years which has kept their loyal customers coming back. If you’ve not been to Café Deli, you’ll definitely enjoy the experience and the food. The cakes are a must-try. Their prices are also quite affordable ranging between Ksh 500 to Ksh 1600.
Urban Eatery
Urban Eatery consists of four different kitchens and a signature bar, with menus spanning from tasty early-morning bites to more substantial evening feasts. This offers a wide selection of dishes and drinks to choose from depending on your taste and lifestyle. From burgers to sushi, their menu has something for everyone. Additionally, their meals are very tasty and their staff is efficient and friendly complementing the overall dining experience. Food prices start at Ksh 600 and drinks start from Ksh 200.
Artcaffe, Westminster
If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy dinner with your significant other in town, you can try Artcaffe Westminster. Located along Kenyatta Avenue in Nairobi CBD, Artcaffe Westminster boasts classic interior designs and an inviting ambience. It offers a full-service casual dining experience complete with a bakery, coffee shop and cocktail bar that is open daily from 6:45 am to midnight. They also have great entertainment including jazz on specific nights and a DJ. Food starts from Ksh 900 and beverages start from Ksh 210.
Asmara Restaurant
This famous Eritrean restaurant is a must-try if you’re looking for a pleasant dining experience without breaking the bank. It has a simple and cosy layout with stunning views of the garden thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glass windows. This also gives the restaurant an airy feel. Apart from its beautiful design, Asmara boasts delicious food that guarantees to leave a lasting impression. Not to mention, their prices are very friendly. A plate of spaghetti bolognese goes for Ksh 600 and a cup of Eritrean coffee is Ksh 200.