Top 10 Restaurants in Watamu

Top 10 Restaurants in Watamu:

Watamu, a charming coastal village located along the Kenyan coast, is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage. But beyond its scenic beauty, Watamu offers a culinary journey that tantalizes the taste buds with a variety of local and international flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, here’s a guide to the top 10 restaurants and local delicacies you must try in Watamu.

1. Papa Remo Beach

Papa Remo Beach is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Nestled right on the beach, it offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed ambiance. The menu is a delightful blend of Italian and Swahili cuisines, with fresh seafood being a highlight. Don’t miss their seafood pasta, which features freshly caught prawns, calamari, and octopus in a rich tomato sauce. Pair it with a glass of wine from their extensive selection for a perfect meal.

 

2. The Crab Shack Restaurant in Watamu

Located on the Mida Creek, The Crab Shack is a must-visit for seafood lovers. As the name suggests, crabs are the star of the menu here. Their signature dish, the Crab Shack Platter, includes a generous serving of crabs, prawns, and fish, all seasoned to perfection. The restaurant also promotes sustainable fishing practices, ensuring that you enjoy your meal with a clear conscience.

 

3. Safina Beach Bar & Restaurant

For those looking to enjoy a meal with their toes in the sand, Safina Beach Bar & Restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere and a menu full of local flavors. Try their grilled fish, which is marinated with Swahili spices and served with coconut rice and a side of kachumbari (a tangy tomato and onion salad). It’s the perfect dish to enjoy while watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

 

4. Mida Dhow

Dining at Mida Dhow is a unique experience. The restaurant is a traditional Swahili dhow that cruises along the Mida Creek, offering stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife. The menu features a variety of Swahili dishes, but the standout is the Swahili prawns cooked in a coconut curry. The blend of spices and creamy coconut milk makes it a must-try. You can stay at the Watamu Agama 2 bedroom Villas  just minutes from this restaurant.

 

5. Come Back Club Watamu

If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and a diverse menu, Come Back Club Watamu is the place to be. This restaurant offers everything from pizzas and pasta to local Kenyan dishes. Their nyama choma (grilled meat) is particularly popular, served with ugali (a type of maize porridge) and sukuma wiki (collard greens). It’s a hearty meal that will leave you satisfied.

 

6. Watamu Beach Club

Watamu Beach Club is another top restaurant in Watamu and is known for its stylish setting and international cuisine with a local twist. One of their standout dishes is the octopus stew, a local favorite made with tender octopus, tomatoes, and spices, served with chapati (a type of flatbread). It’s a flavorful dish that showcases the best of Watamu’s culinary traditions.

 

7. Mapango Restaurant

For a fine dining experience, Mapango Restaurant offers a sophisticated menu and an elegant setting. Located at the Turtle Bay Beach Club, it specializes in seafood and Italian dishes. The Swahili lobster, cooked with coconut milk and spices, is a highlight. It’s a luxurious dish that combines local ingredients with Italian culinary techniques.

 

8. Ocean Sports Restaurant

Situated within the Ocean Sports Resort, this is among top restaurants in Watamu and it offers a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu. The Swahili fish curry is a standout, made with locally caught fish, coconut milk, and a blend of spices. It’s served with a side of rice and is a perfect representation of the fusion between local and international flavors that Watamu is known for.

 

9. Mamma Lucy’s

For an authentic taste of Watamu, Mamma Lucy’s is a hidden gem. This small, family-run restaurant offers traditional Swahili dishes in a cozy setting. Their biryani, a fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and potatoes, is a must-try. The flavors are rich and complex, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

 

10. Non Solo Gelato

No culinary journey in Watamu would be complete without dessert, and Non-Solo Gelato offers some of the best. This Italian gelateria serves a variety of homemade gelato flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to exotic fruits like mango and passionfruit. It’s the perfect way to cool down after a day in the sun.

 

Local Delicacies to Try

Watamu’s local cuisine is a blend of Swahili, Arabic, and Indian influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful culinary tradition. Here are some local delicacies you shouldn’t miss:

 

Samosas: These savory pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables are a popular snack.

Mahamri: A type of sweet, fried bread that pairs perfectly with a cup of chai.

Viazi Karai: Deep-fried potatoes coated in a spicy batter, often served with a tangy tamarind sauce.

Uji: A traditional porridge made from millet or sorghum, often enjoyed for breakfast.

Mkate wa Sinia: A Swahili cake made with rice flour, coconut milk, and cardamom, offering a sweet end to any meal.

Watamu’s food scene is like a delicious journey through its history and environment. With everything from the freshest catches to classic Swahili cuisine, there’s something to tantalize everyone’s taste buds. Don’t miss out on exploring Watamu’s restaurants and indulging in their local specialties – it’s a guaranteed way to turn your trip into an unforgettable culinary adventure!.

PS:

Incase you would love to travel to Mombasa while enjoying the culture and history feel free to contact Royalty Homes Kenya team for a magical place to stay in Mombasa.