Shopping Guide: Nairobi

A Maasai Mara excursion may be your prime reason for visiting Kenya, but be sure to carve out a couple of days to spend in the capital. Dubbed the Silicon Savannah for its burgeoning tech scene, Nairobi is also the hub of Kenyan art, fashion and culture. Browse the local arts and crafts markets, catch an exhibit by contemporary African artists or a performance by local musicians, pick up vibrant African textiles and handcrafted accessories, or pop in to a café for some authentic Kenyan coffee. If you’re looking for a taste of the country’s buzzing culture scene, this is where to get it.

SHOP

The Urban African Lifestyle Company

Visit this boutique store in The Hub Karen shopping mall for a curated selection of contemporary African home, accessories and fashion brands, such as rising Kenyan designer Katungulu Mwendwa.
The Hub Mall Karen, Dagoretti Road; (+254) 705044655
http://www.theurbanafricanlifestylecompany.com/

The Souk

Pop in to The Souk for shopping, browsing and dining, all under one roof. Grab a quick bite at the charming outdoor Tin Roof Café before moving on to browse through the works of local artists and photographers at the Polka Dot Art Gallery, peruse the books at the Souk Bookshop, or shop an eclectic mix of clothing, jewellery, and home décor at the store.
30 Dagoretti Road, Karen; (+254) 706348215
https://www.facebook.com/thesoukshops/

Maasai Market

Visit this open-air arts and crafts market for locally-made wooden masks, beaded jewellery, textiles, keepsakes and more. The market rotates venues on a daily basis; be sure to check where it’s located on the day you plan to visit.
https://www.facebook.com/MaasaiMarketNairobi/

Spinners Web

Stop by this sprawling venue for local handicrafts, home décor and accessories, pottery, jewellery and curios from nearly 400 vendors.
Kitisuru Road; (+254) 731168996
http://www.spinnerswebkenya.com/

Adele Dejak

Pay a visit to this accessory designer’s shop at the Village Market shopping complex for unique jewellery handcrafted in materials like hammered brass, aluminium and cow horn.
Limuru Road; (+254) 771452936
Also available at ShopLatitude.com

Meyelo

This label empowers the Kenyan crafts community through its sale of accessories—from jewellery to scarves to sandals—handcrafted by Kenyan artisans.
Available at ShopLatitude.com

EAT

Carnivore

This restaurant is a Nairobi institution, serving every variety of meat possible, from zebra to crocodile to ostrich, all roasted and served on traditional Maasai swords. Note: there are vegetarian options too!
Langata Road, Langata; (+254) 722204648
http://www.tamarind.co.ke/carnivore/

Talisman

Voted Nairobi’s best restaurant by the New York Times, this spot offers pan-Asian, African and European cuisines in a beautiful setting.
Ngong Road, Karen; (+254) 705999997
http://www.thetalismanrestaurant.com/

VISIT

The GoDown Arts Centre

Housed in a former car repair warehouse, this multidisciplinary space celebrates Kenyan creativity and art in all its forms. Check the calendar and stop by for events like a contemporary dance performance, a classical music recital or a photography exhibit.
Dunga Road; (+254) 726992200
http://www.thegodownartscentre.com/

Thrift Social

One of Nairobi’s most highly-anticipated annual events, Thrift Social is a celebration of local style, art, music and youth culture, organized by two of the coolest kids in the country, Velma Rossa and Oliver Asike. Insta-stalk them at @2manysiblings. Their next event is on May 7 at The Alchemist bar.
Parklands Road (behind Kwik Fit); (+254) 710680768
https://www.instagram.com/thriftsocialnairobi/

Circle Art Gallery

Stop by to view contemporary art by local and international artists. It’s also a venue for presentations by art critics, curators and academics.
910 James Gichuru Road, Lavington; (+254) 722672938
http://www.circleartagency.com/circle-art-gallery-nairobi/

STAY

Giraffe Manor

The name has been chosen wisely—the boutique hotel, set in 12 acres of private land within a 140-acre forest, is home to a herd of endangered Rothschild giraffes known to frequently poke their heads into the dining room!
Langata Road, Langata; (+254) 731914732
https://www.thesafaricollection.com/properties/giraffe-manor/

Hemingways

This lavish country club-style property has stunning views of the lush Ngong Hills and is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city.
146 Mbagathi Ridge; (+254) 711032000
http://www.hemingways-nairobi.com/

FOLLOW

Get a peek at Nairobi’s style and fashion scene through the eyes of these local ladies 

Diana Opoti, Fashion Consultant & Retail Creator

https://www.instagram.com/dianaopotipr/

Silvia Njoki, Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle Blogger

https://www.instagram.com/silvianjoki/

Annabel Onyango, Stylist

https://www.instagram.com/annabelonyango/

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