Barbecue Lunch/ Dinner At The Carnivore Restaurant – Nairobi

Introduction

Our review explores the Carnivore Restaurant’s famous barbecue experience in Nairobi—a place renowned for its extensive meat selection and lively atmosphere. While we haven’t personally dined there, we’ve gathered insights from travelers and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience is the generous portions of freshly cooked meats, the opportunity to try exotic game like crocodile and ostrich, and the convenience of included hotel transfers. However, the price point of $85 might be a consideration for some, especially for those on a tighter budget.

This tour suits food lovers eager to enjoy authentic Kenyan flavors, adventure-hunters curious about exotic meats, and travelers who appreciate seamless logistical arrangements like private pickup and drop-off. It’s an experience that promises both culinary adventure and comfort, making it a memorable part of any Nairobi trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Kenyan cuisine with a wide variety of meats, including exotic options.
• All-you-can-eat style, allowing you to savor multiple flavors without worrying about portion sizes.
• Convenient hotel transfers included, saving you time and hassle.
• Pre-booking recommended, on average 30 days in advance, to secure your spot.
• Private group experience designed for an intimate dining atmosphere.
• Cost of $85 per person offers good value considering the variety and quality of food.

What Makes the Carnivore Experience Special?

The Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a culinary adventure. Named once among the world’s top 50 restaurants, this spot has built a reputation for its sizzling outdoor barbecue and unique selection of meats. It’s an iconic dining destination, especially for those eager to explore African flavors in a lively setting.

From the moment you arrive, the visual impact is striking. Rows of large, flaming grills, and endless skewers of meat on long swords create an atmosphere that’s both inviting and exciting. The staff, known for their attentiveness, will make you feel welcome from start to finish.

The Menu: A Carnivore’s Dream

The menu is extensive and designed to satisfy meat lovers. You’ll be welcomed with a Dawa “Medicine” cocktail, a Kenyan classic made from vodka, honey, lemon, and spices that sets the tone for an authentic experience. The main event involves an all-you-can-eat buffet of meats, including traditional options like chicken, lamb, pork, and beef, alongside more exotic choices such as crocodile, ostrich, rabbit, and buffalo balls.

The meat is pre-cooked, but diners are encouraged to cook more on their personal sizzling iron plates—an interactive aspect that adds a fun twist to the meal. According to one reviewer, “you can eat as much as you want,” which makes this perfect for those with hearty appetites.

The Dining Atmosphere

The setting is lively, with waitstaff passing around Maasai swords loaded with your chosen meats. This theatrical presentation enhances the feeling of a true feast. We loved the way the staff attentively served meat, salads, and vegetables, ensuring that even those who prefer lighter options can enjoy a balanced meal.

Additional Offerings

Beyond the meats, a selection of salads and vegetables complements the feast, offering a break from the meat-heavy options. To round off your experience, you’ll be served Kenyan coffee and a traditional African dessert, providing a sweet and warming finish.

Practical Details: Logistics, Duration, and Value

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, which gives you ample time to relax and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. Included in the package are private hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience — no need to worry about transport or navigating Nairobi traffic.

The cost is $85 per person, which might seem steep at first glance, but considering the all-you-can-eat format, the variety of meats, and the convenience of transfers, many find it to be good value. If you’re a meat enthusiast or curious about trying exotic game, this experience is definitely worth the price.

Booking and Availability

Most travelers book about 30 days in advance, indicating that it’s a popular choice. The experience is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, adding an element of exclusivity and comfort.

Reviews Highlights

One reviewer, Steve J., said, “The meats are wonderful and interesting,” and specifically praised the ostrich meatballs as “delicious.” He also mentioned that, while the price could be considered high for lunch, the experience more than makes up for it. Attentive waitstaff and a wide selection of meats make this a memorable dining event.

Final Thoughts: Is This Experience Right for You?

The Carnivore Restaurant offers a true taste of Kenyan culinary culture in a lively and inviting setting. It’s an excellent choice for meat lovers eager to explore flavors beyond the usual fare, including exotic options like crocodile and ostrich.

With included hotel transfers, you’ll enjoy a stress-free experience—perfect if you prefer to focus on enjoying your meal rather than logistics. The all-you-can-eat style paired with attentive service makes it a smart pick for those craving a generous, authentic feast.

However, if you’re not a big meat eater or are on a restricted diet, this might not be the best fit. Also, the price is slightly higher than typical restaurants, but for the quality, variety, and convenience, many find it justifiable.

This tour provides a fun, flavorful, and hassle-free way to experience Nairobi’s vibrant food scene. Whether you want a special dinner or an introduction to African cuisine, it’s an experience worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the price? The $85 fee covers all-you-can-eat meat, salads, vegetables, a soft drink, and private hotel transfers.
• Are alcoholic beverages included? No, alcohol is not included, so you might want to bring your own or purchase drinks at the venue.
• Can I book this experience for lunch instead of dinner? Yes, the experience offers both lunch and dinner options to fit your schedule.
• How far in advance should I book? Most travelers book about 30 days ahead to secure their reservation.
• Is this a group experience? It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• What is the duration of the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours.
• Is pickup and drop-off included? Yes, scheduled hotel pickups and drop-offs are part of the package.
• What types of meats can I expect? Traditional meats like chicken, lamb, and pork, plus exotic options such as crocodile, ostrich, and rabbit.
• Are there vegetarian options? While the focus is on meats, salads and vegetables are available as accompaniments.
• Is there a dress code? Casual attire is perfectly fine; just avoid overly revealing clothes as it’s a lively, outdoor-influenced setting.

To sum it up, the Carnivore Restaurant experience in Nairobi offers a unique and satisfying way to indulge in Kenyan flavors, especially for those who love hearty, meat-centric meals. With its combination of exotic options, lively atmosphere, and convenient transfers, it appeals most to adventurous diners seeking a memorable culinary journey. Perfect for a special night out or an authentic local experience, this tour guarantees both fun and flavor in equal measure.