In this article, I’ll share some of the best bars and clubs in Nairobi, showcasing the various options for an unforgettable night out. These clubs range from stylish lounges and rooftop bars to classy nightclubs with dance floors that awaken your inner party animal.
The Nairobi night scene comes to life when the sun sets beyond its iconic skyline. In this dynamic city, the nightlife is a symphony of experiences, and you’re sure to find a club that suits your tastes and desires. Of the things to do in Nairobi at night, heading to one of the clubs is a top choice.
I’ve lived in Nairobi, often called the “green city in the sun,” for over a decade. Over this time, I’ve roamed the lively streets of the metropolis and resided in various neighborhoods. I’m also well acquainted with the nightlife scene in the city, and I can attest that Nairobi never sleeps.
So, if you’re craving unforgettable experiences, I invite you to accompany me as we explore the best places to go clubbing in Nairobi. Prepare to dance, socialize, and make memories that will endure long after the night fades away.
15 Best Bars and Clubs in Nairobi
After living in Nairobi for several years and enjoying countless nights out in the city, I’ve compiled this list of my favorite clubs. The list is based on the club’s ambiance, location, music, quality of their drinks, my personal preferences, and reviews from fellow customers.
So, whether you’re a local or a tourist looking for exciting clubbing experiences, here are some of the top nightclubs in Nairobi. They include softly lit rooftop bars for intimate conversations and lounges for a night of unapologetic revelry.
1. Quiver Lounge (Best Club in Nairobi Overall)
We’ll kick off this list of best clubs in Nairobi with Quiver Lounge. Conveniently located along Thika Road, Quiver is an exciting nightlife destination and is popular among locals, especially younger crowds.
The club features a spacious dance area, two floors of seating space, and state-of-the-art sound systems. It’s also famous for its outdoor grill where revelers can order delicious nyama choma (barbecue) and other accompaniments like ugali. After enjoying a tasty Kenyan dish, the club invites you to good music and various drinks.
Quiver Lounge offers various weekly events, making it my favorite entertainment spot in the city. They have themed parties, DJ performances, and live music sessions.
If there isn’t a show by a famous musician, you can expect something unique for that day. For example, I love their unwinding Monday and Tuesday reggae sessions hosted by DJ Moh – one of the best DJs in the city.
Quiver Lounge Information
Address: Opposite Garden City Mall, along Thika Road
Phone: +254794759175
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 5 pm until late
Must-Try Items: Nyama choma (barbecue), Tusker beer
Average Cost: $4-$9 per cocktail, $2-$3 per beer, $15-$29 for wine (750 ml bottle)
Website: @quiverlounge_ke
2. K1 Klub House (One of My Favorite Clubs in Nairobi)
This is another of my favorite spots for nightlife in Nairobi. This classy, timeless, and spacious nightclub offers a unique experience for every taste. It features several bars, a movie theatre, accommodation facilities, and a kitchen that serves various meals.
K1 Klub House hosts various weekly events. These include movie night Mondays, jazz Tuesdays, reggae Thursdays, and strictly Kenyan Saturdays. It also hosts a flea market every Sunday, where you can engage with local artists and buy their craft wares while being entertained by a live band.
So, whether you’re looking for a place to unwind after a long day at work or a venue to dine, dance, and drink, visit K1. The entertainment venue certainly keeps its promise of fun in the city. You can order delicious food such as Mbuzi Ulaya or choose from their extensive drinks menu, which includes cocktails, beers, wines, and more.
K1 Klub House Information
Address: Off Ojijo Road, Parklands
Phone: +254717969500
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 10 am to 3 am
Must-Try Items: Mbuzi Ulaya, K1-Queen cocktail, Tusker Lager. Click here for the full menu.
Average Cost: $8-$10 per cocktail, $3-$5 per beer, $25-$40 for wine (bottle)
Website: klubhouse.co.ke
3. Brew Bistro Rooftop (Best for Craft Beers and Brunch)
Located on the eleventh floor of Fortis Tower in Westlands, Brew Bistro is one of the best rooftop bars in Nairobi. It’s also the perfect place to visit for drinks and music while enjoying beautiful views of Nairobi’s skyline.
This hangout spot attracts diverse crowds and is famous for its handcrafted brews by Big Five Breweries. You can try their wide selection of craft beers and house wines. They also offer various tasty Havana cocktails, tapas, unlimited brunch, and unique signature mains such as salmon teriyaki.
If you’re looking for an exciting night out in Nairobi, head to Brew Bistro Rooftop. Besides its affordable drinks and vibrant nightlife, it serves delicious gastro-pub dishes like craft pizzas and gourmet burgers. Tuesdays are for salsa dances, and there’s live music from leading local artists like Kidum every Wednesday.
Brew Bistro Rooftop Information
Address: Eleventh Floor, Fortis Towers, Westlands
Phone: +254736568610
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 11 am to 3 am
Must-Try Items: Craft pizzas, Havana cocktails, craft beers
Average Cost: $5-$10 per cocktail, $3-$7 per craft beer, $15-$35 for wine (bottle)
Website: thebigfivebreweries.com
4. The Tunnel (Best for Beers and Dancing)
The Tunnel is one of the hottest and most exciting nightclubs in the Nairobi metropolis. It’s known for its energetic vibe, primarily catering to younger people residing along Mombasa Road. Here, you can expect Kenyan old-school hits, the latest amapiano house music, reggae tunes, and Afrobeats.
I recently stopped at the club while waiting on a night train to Mombasa. The music played by the live DJ was excellent, and the waitpersons were fast and friendly. They serve tasty meals and offer various alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
The Tunnel Club Information
Address: Pili Trade Centre, along Mombasa Road
Phone: +254758193425
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 11 am until late
Must-Try Items: Nyama choma, beers, cocktails
Average Cost: $5-$9 per cocktail, $3-$7 per beer, $15 and up for wine (bottle)
Website: @thetunnelke
5. The Manhattan (Best for Live Music and Bar Bites)
The Manhattan is one of Nairobi’s newest and yet most popular entertainment venues. This fantastic bar and grill is located on the first floor of Imaara Shopping Mall along Mombasa Road. It has bar stools and seats surrounding tables, a small dance floor, and an old truck head where the DJs play different genres of music; from dancehall to amapiano.
Featuring a terrace and large glass windows, Manhattan is a great place to enjoy drinks while watching the sunset. You can also order a meal from their extensive menu, which includes bitings, burgers, wraps, soups, and mains such as prime steak and grilled chicken.
Thursday is the most popular night here, where reggae and dancehall music lovers are entertained by various DJs. Wednesdays are for live music, and on Tuesdays, revelers can focus on rhythm and blues. No specific dress code or entry fee exists, but persons under 23 are not allowed entry.
The Manhattan Information
Address: First Floor, Imaara Shopping Mall, along Mombasa Road
Phone: +254757309894
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 10 am to 4 am
Must-Try Items: 3-in-1 Manhattan Platter and Nairobi Slide cocktail. Click here to see the full menu.
Average Cost: $7-$11 per cocktail, $3-$5 per beer, $6-$8 for wine (glass)
Website: manhattan.co.ke
6. Sky Lounge (Best for Cocktails and Beautiful Views)
The top floor of Nairobi’s Emara Ole Sereni is home to this spectacular bar. Sky Lounge is all about luxury vibes, exclusivity, and unforgettable experiences. Here, you’ll drink your favorite beers or cocktails while enjoying the beautiful views of Nairobi National Park and the city.
Aside from the spectacular views, the designs and decor of Sky Lounge are beautiful, with dimly lit glass jars, luxurious couches, and sunbeds next to their infinity pool. Expect a selection of genres such as jazz, rhythm and blues, house, and Afrobeats music in a lively ambiance.
The Sky Lounge has a happy hour every Monday to Thursday from 5 pm – 8 pm. You can drop by the lounge at the end of a busy day and enjoy cocktails, wine, or delicious meals from their Acacia Restaurant. In addition to the outdoor patio, the lounge has an indoor space ideal for romantic dates and special occasions.
☞ SEE ALSO: 25 Best Things To Do in Nairobi, Kenya
Sky Lounge Information
Address: Emara Ole Sereni Hotel, along Mombasa Road
Phone: +254732191000
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 5 pm to 9 pm
Must-Try Items: Barbie cocktail, Mambo Sawa Sour cocktail, Tusker beer. Click here to see the full menu.
Average Cost: $6-$13 per cocktail, $5 per beer, $9-$13 for wine (glass)
Website: emara.ole-sereni.com
7. Exchange Bar (Best for Cocktails and Atmosphere)
Located in the iconic Sarova Stanley Hotel, the Exchange Bar is a beautiful place for a relaxed night out in Nairobi. The classic bar features rustic furniture made of mahogany and elegant leather sofas. Here, you can enjoy great cocktails, local beers, and mojitos served by friendly and attentive staff.
The historic bar started in 1922 as the Long Bar and was the first in Nairobi to receive orders from the new Kenya Breweries. Later, it hosted the Nairobi Stock Exchange (1954-1991), where it derived its name. While here, look around for history pieces, including old safari photos, telephones, and record players.
In addition to drinks, the bar plays jazz and nostalgic Kenyan music. You can also order local and international dishes from the hotel’s legendary cafe – The Thorn Tree. This unique cafe was the meeting point for European settlers in the early days and was used as the ‘post office’ then.
Exchange Bar Information
Address: Sarova Stanley Hotel, at the junction of Kimathi Street and Kenyatta Avenue
Phone: +254709111000
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 11 am to 11 pm
Must-Try Items: 1902 Chicken Poussin, Tusker beer, Negroni cocktail
Average Cost: $6-$11 per cocktail, $3-$5 per beer, $5-$8 for wine (glass)
Website: sarovahotels.com
8. The Edge Lounge (Best for Beers and Live Sports)
If you’re looking for the finest place to go clubbing in Nairobi city center, search no more. With friendly staff, good music, beers, food, and cocktails, Edge Lounge ensures you have a fun-filled night. The club is one of the city’s oldest and mainly attracts students and working-class patrons.
The nightclub features a VIP lounge, a bar area with raised seats, and a small dance floor. It has big screens for sports lovers and a balcony for those looking to enjoy city views.
Wednesday is the most popular day in this club, where partygoers experience the bikini pool party. DJ Nutt entertains the crowd every Friday with local music, hip hop, old-school R&B, and Afrobeats, while Tuesday is a night of slow music from all genres.
The Edge Lounge Information
Address: Opposite Sawa Mall, along Moi Avenue
Phone: +254710402546
Operating Hours: 7 days a week, 24 hours
Must-Try Items: Local beers, wines, and cocktails (like Sweet Poison). Click here to see the full menu.
Average Cost: $4-$7 per cocktail, $3-$5 per beer, $4-6 for wine (glass)
Website: @edge_lounge
9. Nyama Choma Ranch Bar (Best for Local Beers, Food and Entertainment)
This is the perfect spot if you’d like to experience Kenyan culture, cuisine, and nightlife in one place. The Nyama Choma Ranch Bar is located in the famous Safari Park Hotel and Casino. It overlooks the barbecue area where you can indulge in the best of Kenyan cuisine before enjoying local beers, cocktails, wine, gin, and more.
In addition to enjoying various drinks and mouth-watering nyama choma (barbecue), visiting patrons can revel in 45 minutes of entertainment from the Safari Cats. This team stages different dances and acrobatic performances that get your pulse racing.
The Safari Park Hotel is also home to Hemingways Lounge, a classic bar for those seeking a more tranquil and relaxed ambiance. It’s named after one of Kenya’s early safari visitors and adventurers – Ernest Hemingway. Guests can enjoy cocktails while listening to live piano music in this tented space.
The Nyama Choma Ranch Bar Information
Address: Safari Park Hotel and Casino, along Thika Road
Phone: +254709732000
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 7 pm to 9 pm
Must-Try Items: Nyama choma, various cocktail options, and local beers
Average Cost: $7-$9 per cocktail, $4-$8 per beer, $$6-$9 for wine (glass)
Website: safaripark-hotel.com
10. Carnivore (Best for Nyama Choma and Beers)
The Carnivore Restaurant offers a similar experience to the Nyama Choma Ranch. Here, meat lovers are served barbecues (including game meat) carved at their table. The nyama choma is accompanied by ugali, roast potatoes, vegetables, salads, and light snacks.
After indulging in sizzling hot barbecues presented on skewers, you can enjoy local beers, cocktails, or house coffee. All this time, you’ll either listen to rumba, African music, and Jazz or be entertained by a live band.
The Carnivore Restaurant is a great hangout spot for friends and family. Entry is free, and it doesn’t have a specific dress code. If you’d like more food options, including vegetarian and international cuisine, visit the adjoining Simba Saloon. The nightclub is open from Wednesday to Sunday and serves pizzas, steaks, trout, chicken, and more dishes.
☞ SEE ALSO: 15 Best Restaurants in Nairobi
The Carnivore Restaurant Information
Address: Off Lang’ata Road, Nairobi
Phone: +254722204647
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from noon to 11 pm
Must-Try Items: Nyama choma and local beers like Tusker
Average Cost: $4-$7 per beer, $6-9 for wine (glass)
Website: tamarind.co.ke
11. Casa Vera Lounge (Best for Cocktails and Reggae Music)
Ngong Road, which hosts neighborhoods like Kilimani and Hurlingam, is famous for some of Nairobi’s most incredible nightlife spots. One of the best clubs in the area is the classy Casa Vera Lounge. The club offers everything from cold beers and exotic cocktails to great music and delicious food.
Casa Vera has become the go-to place for both local and foreign party-goers. Their drinks are affordable, and the live DJs know their audience well. Here, you can expect various music genres from different DJs, including live reggae by the famous Dohty Family.
One of their best offerings is the cocktails marathon. They have a happy hour every Wednesday to Sunday from 4 pm to 10 pm. If you buy two cocktails during these times, you get one free of charge.
Casa Vera Lounge Information
Address: Junction of Kaburu Drive and Ngong Road
Phone: +254703245095
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 10 am until late
Must-Try Items: Beers, cocktails, and whiskeys are popular here
Average Cost: $4-$7 per cocktail, $3-$5 per beer, $4-$7 for wine (glass)
Website: @casaveralounge
12. Whiskey River Lounge (Best for Live Sports and Good Music)
This club in Ridgeways, along Kiambu Road, is a perfect spot to catch up with friends or colleagues. You can unwind together watching live sports on big screens while treating yourself to whiskeys, beers, or cocktails.
Whiskey River Lounge & Grill has great music, tasty food, and theme nights. It’s also centrally located for easy access, with ample parking and friendly staff.
You can expect R&B, hip hop, Kenyan hits, Tanzanian bongo flava, amapiano, Afrobeats, and dancehall here. They also have cool running reggae by the famous DJ Moh of MohSpice Entertainment every Thursday.
Whiskey River Lounge & Grill Information
Address: Opposite Total Petrol Station, along Kiambu Road
Phone: +254743577995
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 8 am till late
Must-Try Items: Whiskeys and beers (both local and exotic) are popular here
Average Cost: $4-$7 per cocktail, $3-$5 per beer, $4-$7 for wine (glass)
Website: @whiskeyriver_ke
13. The Loft Lounge (Best for Dancing and African Music)
This entertainment spot is for those who like their clubs energetic, non-stop, and loud. The Loft’s affordable beers and cocktails, live DJs, and hyper music pull in younger crowds, who drink and dance until late. You’ll most likely dance to Afrobeats and bongo flava here, but it could also be amapiano, R&B, and the latest Kenyan hits.
If you prefer a relaxed and quieter vibe, go soon after it opens at around 3 pm to enjoy a few beers or watch a football game before things get crazy. There’s no entry fee at The Loft, but you’ll spend on drinks and bites – chicken wings and nyama choma.
The Loft hosts themed nights every week. My favorite days are Afropiano Tuesdays, reggae Wednesdays, and craze Fridays. Mondays are for birthday celebrations, Thursdays are for Afrobeats, and weekends are for feel-good music and hangouts.
The Loft Lounge Information
Address: Behind Mountain Mall, along Thika Road
Phone: +254769732993
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 3 pm till late
Must-Try Items: Local beers, standard cocktails, and exotic whiskeys
Average Cost: $3-$6 per cocktail, $2-$5 per beer, $4-$7 for wine (glass)
Website: @loftlounge_kenya
14. The Vineyard Ridgeways (Best for Food and Themed Events)
If you’re still looking for places to go clubbing in Nairobi, you can’t resist the excitement that The Vineyard Ridgeways exhumes. Here, you can have all the fun and entertainment in the world. So, whether it’s good food, great music, tranquil ambiance, or wonderful views you’re seeking, the club has it all.
Set in a beautiful green garden, Vineyard is a fantastic eatery by day and a nightlife spot by night. Guests can enjoy delicious meals such as pork ribs, sticky chicken wings, and goat meat served with ugali or rice. Their drinks menu is extensive, with various options to choose from, including wines, cocktails, and beers.
In addition to drinks and meals, the club has themed events throughout the week. You’ll be entertained by resident DJs and groove to sweet melodies by the Wednesday live band. If you’re more into dancing, gather your friends and party all night.
The Vineyard Ridgeways Information
Address: Ridgeways, along Kiambu Road
Phone: +254705919706
Operating Hours: 7 days a week from 8 am to 3 am
Must-Try Items: Vineyard runaway platter and Kikicolada cocktail. Click here to see their drinks menu.
Average Cost: $4-$6 per cocktail, $3-$5 per beer, $5-$7 for wine (glass)
Website: vineyard.co.ke
15. Hero Restaurant and Bar (The Best Speakeasy in Nairobi)
Nairobi’s first speakeasy doubles as one of the city’s most fantastic cocktail bars. Located on the ninth floor of Trademark Hotel, Hero is a classy rooftop spot combining reality and fantasy. It’s a secret place to connect, have fun, and celebrate heroes from comics and the community.
Various media outlets have ranked Hero as one of the best bars in the World for a reason. Besides its elegant furniture and touches of beautiful interior decor, it has a killer menu of bar bites and cocktails.
You can enjoy sushi rolls, salmon, beef fillet tataki, and lobster here. They also have superheroes and villain-themed cocktails, including their signature Ode to Lucy (heroes), Shaving Cream (villains), Lasso (sidekicks), and Jocker Juice (law enforcement).
Hero Restaurant and Bar Information
Address: Trademark Hotel at Village Market, along Limuru Road
Phone: +254732186666
Operating Hours: Mon (closed), Tue, Wed, and Thur (5 pm to 12 am), Fri (5 pm to 1 am), Sat and Sun (12 pm to 8 pm)
Must-Try Items: Beef fillet tataki, Ode to Lucy cocktail, and Foggy Nelson cocktail. Click here to see the full menu.
Average Cost: $4-$10 per cocktail, $4-$9 per beer
Website: hero-kenya.com
Best Drink Tours in Nairobi
Taking a food and drink tour in Nairobi is one of the best ways to experience the city’s nightlife. It’s also a great way to connect with locals and other travelers while exploring Kenya’s dining and drinking culture. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Cat Dance and Dinner Experience
Join this tour for the ultimate cultural immersion through music, food, and drinks. Your guide will take you to Nyama Choma Ranch at the iconic Safari Park Hotel and Casino for a night of entertainment. Here, you’ll enjoy delicious meals, favorite drinks, and a thrilling acrobatics and dancing show by the Safari Cats team.
Carnivore Dinner Experience
This is another incredible food and drink tour to add to your Nairobi itinerary. You’ll enjoy a fantastic night of nyama choma (barbecue) and other dishes at Carnivore – one of the best restaurants in Kenya. The food is perfectly paired with superb local music and a range of drinks, giving you an authentic taste of Nairobi.
Nairobi Happy Hour Night Out
If you want a good sample of nightlife in Nairobi, you can take advantage of this tour. Your local guide will meet you at 4 pm for a drinks tour of some of the best clubs in the city – K1 Klub House and Brew Bistro. The tour also includes an optional free bowling experience.
Clubs in Nairobi: FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about clubs in Nairobi:
What are the best clubs in Nairobi?
Some of the best nightclubs in Nairobi include Quiver Lounge, Brew Bistro Rooftop, Sky Lounge, and K1 Klub House. The choice depends on your taste in music, drinks, and atmosphere.
Do you tip in Nairobi?
Tipping is appreciated but optional in Nairobi. However, It’s customary to tip around 10% of the bill in clubs, bars, and restaurants.
What neighborhood has the best clubs in Nairobi?
Westlands and Kilimani are considered the best neighborhoods to go clubbing in Nairobi. They’re home to many unique and classy nightclubs, rooftop bars, and lounges.
How much is an average cocktail in Nairobi?
Cocktails in Nairobi range from $4 to $19, depending on the entertainment spot.
Does Nairobi have a good nightlife?
Yes. Nairobi has a thriving nightlife scene with various lounges, bars, clubs, and entertainment options suited for almost every taste.
Is Nairobi a party city?
Yes. Nairobi is often considered a party city. The nightlife is lively, and numerous hangout spots exist to enjoy music, drinks, dancing, and socializing.
Is there a dress code for clubs in Nairobi?
Almost all Nairobi nightclubs I’ve visited are free from requesting a specific dress code. However, smart-casual is generally preferred.
Why are clubs in Nairobi closed?
Clubs in Nairobi may occasionally be closed for various reasons, including concerns over noise pollution in residential areas.
Where do singles meet in Nairobi?
Singles in Nairobi often meet in social spots like nightclubs, bars, and lounges. Westlands and Kilimani are popular neighborhoods with a high concentration of such venues.
Now You Know the Best Clubs in Nairobi
As I wrap up this guide to the best clubs in Nairobi, it’s clear that the city offers various options to suit every taste and mood. You can enjoy the high-energy beats of Quiver Lounge, The Tunnel’s Afro-centric vibes, or the Exchange Bar’s nostalgic atmosphere.
Although the nightlife scene in Nairobi is dynamic with ever-changing trends, one thing is sure: its clubs won’t disappoint. So, put on your dancing shoes, bring your friends, and get ready to experience the electrifying and unforgettable nights in the capital of Kenya.
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