Kenya Food and Drink
Kenyan food is hearty, varied, and shaped by regional traditions, local produce, and influences from Indian, Arab, and European cuisines. Meals are often simple but filling, with staples based around maize, beans, rice, and meat. In cities and tourist areas, dining options range from local eateries and street food to international restaurants and hotel dining. Vegetarian options are increasingly available, particularly in urban centres. Alcohol is widely sold in licensed restaurants, bars, and hotels, though availability can be more limited in rural areas.
Food hygiene standards are generally good in established restaurants and hotels. Visitors are advised to eat freshly prepared food, avoid undercooked meat, and choose busy eateries with high turnover. Street food is popular and often safe when freshly cooked, but travellers with sensitive stomachs may prefer to be selective.
Ugali: A dense maize flour porridge that is Kenya's most common staple, typically served with vegetables, meat, or stew.
Nyama choma: Grilled meat, usually goat or beef, cooked over open flames and eaten socially, often with ugali and kachumbari.
Sukuma wiki: Sautéed leafy greens, usually collard greens, cooked with onions and tomatoes and served as a side dish.
Githeri: A simple stew of maize and beans, common in central Kenya and often eaten as an everyday meal.
Chapati: A soft flatbread of Indian origin, widely eaten across Kenya and commonly served with stews.
Pilau: Spiced rice cooked with meat and aromatic spices, especially popular along the coast and during celebrations.
Samosa: Deep-fried pastry filled with meat or vegetables, widely sold as a snack or street food.
Chai: Sweet, milky tea brewed with black tea leaves and spices, commonly drunk throughout the day.
Tusker Lager: Kenya's most famous beer, crisp and refreshing, widely available across the country.
Pilsner: A popular local beer with a slightly stronger flavour, commonly found in bars and restaurants.
Dawa: A cocktail made with vodka, honey, lime, and sugar, originally popularised in Nairobi.
Fresh fruit juices: Made from mango, passion fruit, pineapple, or avocado, and widely available in cafés and restaurants.
Tipping in Kenya is customary but not compulsory. In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is appreciated if the service is good, especially where a service charge is not included in the bill. In cafés and bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common. Higher-end restaurants and hotels may include a service charge, in which case additional tipping is optional.
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