Top 10 affordable lunches in Nairobi

Hungry? Feeling rather light in the pocket? Here are our top 10 choices of places to pay a visit or contact when funds and stomachs are low around central Nairobi.

1. Ranalo Foods, Kimathi street, CBD

Kimathi Street is a tried and trusted, low budget go-to if you’re hopping around town. With cuisines ranging from Swahili to Turkish, you’ll be sure to find something to your liking, as well as your pocket’s. Ranalo, in particular, serves Kosewe—African with a Lake Victoria twist—style food.

2. Pasara Café, Lonrho House, opposite the IMAX back entrance, CBD

Although they are known for their great sandwiches, they also serve good burgers, soups and fresh juices too!

3. Cafeteria at University of Nairobi school of Arts and Design, State House Rd

I knew somebody on campus (but I guess one could always lie about that or just look like a hungry student). Lovely fresh and homely Swahili dishes for next-to-nothing (I mean it is for students after all).

4. Bandari Plaza Food Court, Woodvale Grove, Westlands

Indian cuisine at good prices.

5. Diamond Plaza, Fourth Parklands Avenue, Parklands

If you’re closer to Parklands area, where better to go for fresh, affordable and divine Indian Cuisine than Little India itself? Make sure to visit the supermarket for their mouthwatering selection of Indian sweets.

6. Mumtaz Food Court, Mash Auto Garage, Chiromo Lane 1, Westlands

Indian and Swahili cuisine mash-up.

7. Naivas, The Mall, Westlands

I know this one sounds random but Naivas offers a good buffet of salads and meats and other fast food. A good option if you’re in a rush and want to choose from a large variety.

8. Tamu Tamu, opposite Aqua Blu Nightclub, Woodvale Grove, Westlands

Chicken, beef, rice, pilau and vegetables. All African Style. Best time to get there is 12:00pm, when the food is fresh out the kitchen. Prices start from KES150.

Delivery:

If your office is located around town/ Westlands area, these are great options that will deliver right to your doorstep. Make sure to call 1 or 2 hours in advance to avoid disappointment…

9. Gourmet Nomads

Home-cooked dishes the likes of rice, beef or chicken and vegetables or even pasta and vegetables at only KES250. They also throw in a small tub of yoghurt just to round your lunch off! All meals go for KES250. Call them on 0771665072

10. Deli_Cious

A great option if you’re looking for a change from African food or Indian. Although they have a wide range of Indian curries and bites on their menu, Deli_Cious offer Chinese dishes such as noodles, sweet and sour rice and even spicy Chinese soups! Prices range between KES200 and KES500. Call them on 0739149149

by Liz Maelane