Nairobi Carnivore Restaurant Dinner Experience

When it comes to trying out the iconic cuisine of Nairobi, few places deliver quite the same memorable punch as the Carnivore Restaurant. While we haven’t personally sat down at this famous eatery, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of an experience that’s as fun as it is flavorful. It’s a must-do for anyone craving a taste of Kenya’s hearty, meat-centric culture in a lively setting.

What we love about this experience is the unique way they serve meat, the authentic Maasai grilling techniques, and the inviting garden setting with zebra-striped chairs. The all-you-can-eat format promises a generous feast, perfect for those wanting to indulge. However, it’s worth noting that this is a meat lover’s paradise, so vegetarians or diners with special dietary needs might want to consider other options.

This tour suits travelers looking for an interactive, cultural dining experience with a side of adventure. Foodies, curious travelers, and those seeking a lively night out will find it particularly appealing. With a reasonable price point of $125, it offers significant value for a full evening of entertainment and cuisine.

Key Points

• Authentic Kenyan flavor with grilled meats served tableside on Maasai swords
• All-you-can-eat style, offering a wide variety of premium meats
• Lively garden setting with zebra-striped chairs and traditional decor
• Includes soup, bread, salads, sauces, and dessert, making it a complete dining experience
• Pickup and drop-off from your hotel enhance convenience
• Cost of $125 per person delivers good value for a full, authentic meal experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect at the Carnivore Restaurant

From the moment your driver picks you up at around 6:00 pm, you’re stepping into an evening designed for conviviality and bold flavors. The drive to the restaurant is brief—just about three miles from central Nairobi—making it convenient for most travelers staying in the city. As you arrive, the lively atmosphere hits you immediately. The open-air setting is lush, with a garden ambiance that sets an inviting tone for the feast ahead.

The Atmosphere and Setting

The restaurant is famous for its zebra-striped chairs and safari-inspired decor, creating a fun, adventurous vibe. As described by visitors, the setting is reminiscent of a traditional safari lodge, but with a cheerful, unpretentious twist. The open-air garden style allows you to enjoy Nairobi’s evening air, which adds to the relaxed but festive ambiance.

The Meal Experience

Once seated, your experience begins with a hot cup of soup of the day, a simple but effective way to warm up your palate. Short afterwards, a sizzling cast-iron platter appears, filled with your choice of grilled meats, accompanied by homemade brown bread and butter. The highlight is the servers walking around with Maasai swords, carving and offering a variety of meats directly onto your plate. This spectacle is as much about the show as the food.

The Meats and Sides

The selection is impressive, especially for meat lovers: beef shank, ostrich, lamb shank, pork ribs, alligator, chicken wings, and sausages. Visitors mention the quality of the meats as quite high, with some reviewers describing the ostrich as surprisingly tender. The meats are freshly grilled over a charcoal pit, which imparts a smoky richness that’s hard to beat.

Accompanying the meats are a variety of salads and vegetable sides, including rice salad, kidney beans, coleslaw, cucumber raita, and vegetable relish. These provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty meats. The salads are served on a two-tier rotating tray, which adds an element of fun and allows you to sample different flavors without fuss.

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Controlling Your Feast

A neat feature of the experience is the white paper flag placed on your table. When you want more meat, you lift the flag to signal the servers, and when you’re full, you lower it to stop the flow of meat. This simple yet effective system helps you manage your meal without overdoing it.

Desserts and Drinks

End your meal with a sweet dessert and coffee, rounding out a full dining experience. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are not included but are available for purchase, which gives you the flexibility to choose your preferred beverages.

Transportation and Convenience

The included hotel pickup and drop-off makes the evening hassle-free, especially after a long day of sightseeing. The entire experience lasts for a couple of hours, giving you ample time to enjoy your meal and soak in the lively environment.

Is This Experience Worth the Price?

At $125 per person, the Carnivore Restaurant offers good value, especially considering the all-you-can-eat format and the quality of meats. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive dining experience with a flavor of local culture. The included transportation adds to the convenience, making it a stress-free evening out.

Some reviews mention that the meat quality is quite high, and the presentation with Maasai swords makes for a memorable visual and cultural touch. The variety of salads and sides keeps the meal balanced, and the lively atmosphere ensures an engaging night.

Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive hungry: The quantity of meat served can be generous, so come prepared to indulge.
• Signal clearly: Use the white paper flag to control your meat flow—it’s straightforward once you get the hang of it.
• Vegetarians beware: The focus is on meat; vegetarians might find limited options beyond salads and sides.
• Book in advance: The experience is popular, and booking ahead guarantees your spot.

The Sum Up

The Nairobi Carnivore Restaurant dinner experience is an immersive way to enjoy Kenya’s famous grilled meats amid a lively, safari-inspired setting. It’s perfect for meat enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone wanting to sample true Kenyan hospitality in a fun environment. The combination of high-quality meats, theatrical carving, and a relaxed garden atmosphere makes it a standout dining adventure in Nairobi.

While it’s primarily a carnivorous feast, the thoughtful inclusion of salads, sauces, and desserts means you’re not just eating—you’re experiencing a cultural showcase of local flavors and traditions. The value for the price, with everything included from transportation to a full feast, makes it a compelling choice for an evening out.

If you’re after a lively, authentic, and delicious experience that captures the spirit of Nairobi’s culinary scene, this dinner tour hits the mark. Just be sure to arrive hungry and ready for a fun, flavorful adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to enjoy your night without worrying about logistics.

What’s the price per person?
It costs $125, which is considered good value given the all-you-can-eat format, variety of meats, and included transportation.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase but are not included in the tour price.

What meats are served?
A broad range including beef shank, ostrich, lamb shank, pork ribs, alligator, chicken wings, and sausages. The meats are grilled over charcoal for extra flavor.

Can vegetarians participate?
Vegetarians might find limited options—mainly salads and vegetable sides—since the focus is on grilled meats.

How do I control how much meat I get?
You lower or raise the white paper flag on your table to signal when you want more or if you’re satisfied.

How long does the dinner last?
The overall experience lasts around two hours, enough time to enjoy the meal and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s generally family-friendly, especially for those who love meat and a lively setting, but check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

What’s the setting like?
An open-air garden with zebra-striped chairs and safari-themed decor, creating a fun, relaxed vibe.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended as the restaurant is popular, and reservations help secure your spot.

To sum it up, the Nairobi Carnivore Restaurant dinner is a fantastic way to indulge in Kenyan culinary traditions. With its hearty offerings, lively setting, and convenient logistics, it’s well suited for those eager to enjoy a true taste of Nairobi in a fun, authentic environment. Whether you’re a meat lover or simply want an unforgettable night out, this experience is likely to leave you with lasting memories—and perhaps a few new favorite dishes.

You can check availability for your dates here: