Carnivore Restaurant: Lunch or Dinner Experience in Nairobi

Introduction

Our review of the Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi focuses on a dinner experience that promises a true taste of Kenya. Known for its lively atmosphere and exotic meat offerings, this spot is a must-visit for food lovers and adventure seekers alike.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines spectacular food presentation with authentic Kenyan dining traditions, especially the impressive display of meats carved onto Maasai swords. The friendly guides and efficient service make it both enjoyable and hassle-free. Plus, the variety of meat options offers something for all, from beef to crocodile.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the price of $125 per person might seem high for some travelers, especially if you’re not a big fan of hearty, meat-heavy meals. Also, alcohol isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget for drinks separately.

This tour suits those who want a fun, immersive dining experience, are meat enthusiasts, or simply want to enjoy Nairobi’s vibrant culinary scene with a knowledgeable guide by their side.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Kenyan experience with traditional Maasai sword carving of meats
• Variety of exotic and familiar meats, including crocodile and ostrich
• Comfortable transport with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Informative guides help enhance your understanding of Kenyan cuisine and culture
• Flexible booking options with pay later and full refund policies
• Cost reflects quality and a lively, memorable feast

A Closer Look at the Carnivore Experience

How the Tour Begins and Transportation

Your adventure kicks off with hotel pickup in Nairobi, making the entire process stress-free. The ride to the restaurant is short—just about 3 miles—so you’ll be enjoying your meal before you know it. Once there, you’ll settle into a distinctively zebra-striped chair, setting the tone for a fun, lively atmosphere.

The transport arrangement is straightforward and convenient, especially for travelers who prefer not to navigate the city on their own. The guide or driver is generally experienced and fluent in English, ensuring you’re well-informed about the experience as it unfolds.

The Atmosphere and Setting

The Carnivore Restaurant’s ambiance is both rustic and lively, with a large open charcoal pit at the center, which is the heart of the action. The staff wears zebra-striped aprons and straw hats, adding a playful, authentic touch. The decor hints at Kenya’s safari spirit, creating an environment that feels both fun and culturally immersive.

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The Meat Carving Show

The highlight for most visitors is the spectacle of meats being carved onto your plate. An army of carvers, wielding traditional Maasai swords, moves from table to table, slicing generous portions of prime meats onto sizzling cast-iron plates right in front of you.

The meat options include beef, ostrich, leg of lamb, pork spare ribs, crocodile, chicken wings, and sausages—both beef and pork. The variety ensures there’s something for every adventurous eater. The experience is not only about the taste but also the visual spectacle, with the dramatic presentation adding to the meal’s excitement.

The Food and Flavors

Once your meats are served, you can mix and match with a wide array of side salads: mixed greens, rice salad, kidney beans, coleslaw, cucumber raita, and vegetable dishes. These help balance the richness of the meats and add a touch of freshness.

Accompanying the meal is a revolving tray of sauces—from tangy to spicy—that you can use to elevate each bite. The restaurant’s homemade vegetable vinaigrette is a standout, providing a delicious contrast to the hearty meats.

Interactive Dining

To control the flow of meats to your table, simply lower a white paper flag on the central tray—an easy and fun way to signal when you’re ready or want to pause. This interactive element sets the tone for a relaxed, flexible dining experience, ideal for savoring your favorite cuts without feeling rushed.

Dessert and the End of the Meal

After the meat feast, you’ll be served dessert and coffee, offering a sweet finish to this substantial experience. The desserts are typically traditional or local, rounding out your meal and providing an authentic taste of Kenyan hospitality.

Return and Additional Info

Once you’ve finished, your driver will return you to your hotel, completing the smooth, hassle-free experience. The entire dinner lasts about 2-3 hours, making it an ideal evening activity.

What Makes the Carnivore Restaurant Special

Unique Meat Selection

The exotic meats—including crocodile and ostrich—bring a sense of adventure to your dinner. This is not your average steakhouse; it’s a place where you can try something truly different, especially if you’re curious about local delicacies.

Authentic Kenyan Dining

The use of Maasai swords and the traditional presentation style give the meal an authentic, culturally immersive feel. It’s a chance to experience Kenyan hospitality and culinary flair in a lively, fun environment.

Value for Money

At $125 per person, the experience offers a significant value considering the unlimited meat carving, the variety of dishes, and the inclusion of transport and guide services. For those looking for a memorable, all-in-one dining adventure, it’s a worthwhile splurge.

Authentic and Engaging Guides

Guests have praised the knowledgeable guides who help explain the significance of the different meats and cultural customs, adding depth to the experience. As one reviewer noted, “It was great,” highlighting the overall satisfaction.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours or weekends, to secure your spot.
• Be prepared for a hearty meal—this isn’t a light dinner; come hungry.
• If you’re sensitive to spicy sauces or unfamiliar meats, don’t hesitate to ask your guide for recommendations.
• Alcoholic beverages aren’t included, so plan to purchase drinks separately if desired.
• The dress code is casual—comfortable clothing is perfect, especially if you plan to indulge.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is ideal for adventurous eaters, those wanting to explore Kenya’s culinary heritage, or visitors looking for a fun, lively night out. Families, groups of friends, and couples will all find the lively atmosphere and interactive service appealing.

Travelers with a curious palate will appreciate the opportunity to taste exotic meats and learn about local traditions. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a well-organized, guided experience, ensuring you get the most out of your evening.

The Sum Up

The Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi offers more than just a meal—it’s an interactive, cultural adventure wrapped in a lively setting. From the dramatic carving on Maasai swords to the diverse range of meats, every aspect is designed to entertain and satisfy.

While the price may seem steep, the quality, variety, and authentic experience make it a worthwhile splurge for most visitors. It’s perfect if you want a memorable night out that combines Kenyan traditions, hearty food, and engaging service.

This experience works best for those who love to try new things, enjoy social dining, or want to immerse themselves in Kenyan culture through its cuisine. If you’re after a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure in Nairobi, the Carnivore Restaurant is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making your evening seamless and stress-free.

Can I book this experience in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

What is the price per person?
The experience costs approximately $125 per person, which covers the meal, transport, and guide services.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks are available for purchase separately.

What meats are available at the restaurant?
Guests can enjoy a variety of prime meats, including beef, ostrich, lamb, crocodile, chicken wings, and sausages.

How long does the dinner last?
Expect the meal to take about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and group size.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the lively and interactive nature suggests it’s suitable for families, provided children are comfortable with the hearty, meat-heavy meal.

Can I cancel the reservation?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Casual clothing is perfect—nothing too formal needed for this fun, relaxed dining experience.

In all, the Carnivore Restaurant offers a delicious, entertaining, and culturally rich dining adventure in Nairobi, perfect for those eager to experience Kenya’s local flavors in a fun setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: