Lillian Gaitho is checking out Nairobi’s roof top bars

A BAR WITH A VIEW MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE

(Posted 20th April 2016)

Lilian Gaitho's profile photo

Lillian is back in the proverbial saddle and has started to notch up her writing output again. This week she is looking at the bar scene in Nairobi, but not just ordinary bars … bars which have a view … read on to find out all about Nairobi’s spectacular rooftop bars!

Top Eight Rooftop Bars to Sample in Nairobi

From trendy uptown gems to, quirky and leafy terrace works, nothing beats sipping your champagne or stirring your mojito with the street lights dancing at your feet. Jovago swipes the capital for a list of rooftop and balcony bars where you can elevate your party above the city.

Sarabi Restaurant and Supper Club

Address: Woodvale Grove – Westlands

Atop one of Nairobi’s swankiest hotels, Sarabi at Sankara goes beyond tantalizing cocktails to offer a sweeping view of the city’s skyline. The downtown sights of street parties in the Westland district makes an interesting bird’s gaze from the club.

Tabourin – Villa Rosa Kempinski

Chiromo Road, Westland

Looking for sundowner sips? Tabourin blends its charm with warm interiors that seem to soak in the African sun rays even during the colder season. Look out for belly dancing shows and be sure to sample their wide selection of mezze platters.

Level 8 Best Western Premier

Arwings Kodhek

For stunning views that sweep from Upperhill Nairobi to the sky kissing skyscrapers of the city. Best known for its Ciroc cocktails. Level 8 at the Best Western Premier is an ideal vantage point for revelers wishing to enjoy terrace and pool in a single swipe.

Sentrim 680

Center of Kenyatta Avenue and Muindi Mbingu Street.

Probably more popular with the Gen Xers than the millennials. This town spot is quite calm, a major contrast to the surrounding hustle and bustle that characterizes the CBD. It’s a good spot to catch up with friends over seasoned dines and well-aged wines before turning up at the more happening location.

Coming soon: Tune Hotels

Rhapta Road, Westland

Already making waves across the grapevine is the much anticipated Kilele Lounge, hyped to be the highest rooftop bar in the city. The lounge makes a unique entry to the hotel line; as Nairobi will be the first to enjoy a Tune Lounge. This one is still a wait-and-sample.

Waterhole, Ole Sereni

Mombasa Road

Going beyond tipsy to pure adventure? The Waterhole located on the second veranda of Ole Sereni is a sure bet. A cold tusker in hand and a heard of grazers underneath is what sets this option apart from other rooftop bars in the city. Located along Mombasa road and bordering the Nairobi National park, this bar offers its guests a spectacular mix of adventure and delectable dine and wine.

Nest, at The Tribe

Village Market – Limuru Road, Gigiri

For those looking for an alfresco hangout in the outskirts of Nairobi. The bar has a martinis specialty; shaken or stirred, so you know you can never go wrong here! Take time to sample their culinary or take a dive into their sheesha flavors if it happens to be your definition of cool.

Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar at Clarence House

School Lane, Westland

The Nairobi skyline is laid out in front of you from this well nestled perch on Clarence House. Where it lacks for views, its kitchen offerings definitely make up through their innovative dishes cutting across a range of palates. Homely and airy aptly describes the ambience here.