Watamu’s renowned white sand beaches, coral reefs, and luxury resorts are major draws, but its restaurants also offer a stellar culinary experience.
Located on Kenya’s northern coast, Watamu is a vibrant mix of local and Italian communities, making it a top destination for diverse and delectable cuisine. The town boasts a range of dining options — from local eateries and beach bars to seafood hotspots and pizzerias.
Watamu stands out with its beautiful beaches, a Marine Park for watersports, excellent accommodations, and friendly locals, making it one of Kenya’s best holiday destinations. During my recent week-long visit, I found even more fantastic places to eat and things to do.
If you’re heading to Watamu and curious about where to eat, this guide highlights the finest restaurants and their best dishes:
Crab Shack Dabaso
Set among mangroves and run by a local conservation group, Crab Shack Dabaso offers a unique seafood dining experience. Friendly staff, a creekside location, and eco-activities make it a top choice. Try the giant Mida crab, mixed seafood grill, and crab samosa. Birdwatch or catch a sunset from their mangrove boardwalk.
Address: MX3Q+VH Crab Shack, Dabaso
Phone: +254 725 315 562
Hours: Daily from 8 am to 9 pm
Amandina Restaurant
Located at the Medina Palms Hotel by Turtle Bay Beach, Amandina provides affordable yet exceptional dining. They serve African, European, and Mediterranean dishes, with vegan options available. Enjoy a romantic meal with ocean views. Must-try dishes include the mixed grilled seafood platter and chicken biryani.
Address: Medina Palms Hotel, off Turtle Bay Road
Phone: +254 114 128 477
Hours: Daily from 7 am to 9 pm
Sunset Beach
Known for its pizzas and cocktails, Sunset Beach is perfect for relaxing evenings with live music and stunning sunsets. Situated on an elevated deck by Watamu Beach, its specialty is wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, particularly the Diavola pizza.
Address: J2VC+C3 Watamu
Phone: +254 793 858 165
Hours: Wed-Mon (12:30 pm to 11 pm), Tue (closed)
Pilipan
Popular for its exquisite cuisine, serene ambiance, and delightful cocktails, Pilipan is a must-visit. The menu features prawn and fish dishes, chicken curry, and seafood skewers. Plan your visit around their Saturday happy hour for the best experience.
Address: JXHV+WW, Turtle Bay Road
Phone: +254 713 993 776
Hours: Daily from 11 am to 10 pm
Lichthaus by Temple Point Resort
This bar and restaurant offers a raised terrace with stunning Mida Creek views. Enjoy diverse dishes like pineapple octopus and garlic-grilled beef, along with fresh vegetable salads. Relax in hammocks with a cold drink.
Address: JX7C+X7, Mida Creek
Phone: +254 740 768 412
Hours: Daily from 12 pm to 10 pm
Gede Coffee Gardens at Hemingways Hotel
An ultimate outdoor dining spot with ocean views and a fantastic menu. Enjoy dishes like Italian pizzas, grilled seafood, and beef steaks. Visit Hemingways Bar for an extensive selection of wines and cocktails.
Address: J2P3+G2Q Watamu
Phone: +254 709 188 000
Hours: Daily from 10 am to 9 pm
Kokomo Beach Bar and Restaurant
Situated at Mapango Bay, Kokomo offers stunning views and a diverse menu including lamb kebabs, burgers, and tasty desserts. Ideal for a memorable evening by the ocean.
Address: J2VC+37 Mapango Beach
Phone: +254 759 954 462
Hours: Daily from noon to midnight
Hosteria Romana
A charming Italian restaurant near Watamu Beach, known for authentic pizzas, pasta, and seafood options. Don’t miss their fresh salmon carpaccio or carbonara.
Address: J2VC+G9, Watamu Beach Road
Phone: +254 711 867 275
Hours: Daily from 10:30 am to 10:30 pm
Tamu Beach Bar and Restaurant
Close to Papa Remo Beach, Tamu offers both romantic indoor dining and a family-friendly beachfront setting. The diverse menu includes salads, sushi, and seafood. Ideal for any dining occasion.
Address: M22G+48 Watamu Beach Road
Phone: +254 703 707 038
Hours: Tue-Sun (10 am to 10 pm), Mon (closed)
Willy Beach Restaurant
Located on Papa Remo Beach, this spot serves grilled seafood and local dishes like pilau and beef stew. Enjoy a variety of drinks and the beautiful ocean view.
Address: J2XF+8P Watamu
Phone: +254 705 959 994
Hours: Daily from 8:30 am to 10 pm
Papa Remo
A lively beach restaurant on Love Bay, offering indoor and outdoor dining with a vibrant atmosphere. The multi-cuisine menu includes pizzas, grilled meats, and seafood.
Address: M23J+9X Jacaranda Road
Phone: +254 707 010 527
Hours: Daily from 9 am to 10 pm
Marafiki Beach Bar and Restaurant
Located on Jacaranda Bay Beach, Marafiki provides a delightful menu with seafood, Swahili, and Italian dishes. Enjoy the ocean view and a wide range of drinks.
Address: M3MP+Q2V Jacaranda Road
Phone: +254 711 738 524
Hours: Daily from 8:30 am to 10:30 pm
Safina Beach Bar and Restaurant
Situated on Jacaranda Bay Beach, Safina offers local dishes, seafood, and refreshing drinks. Perfect for relaxing on sun loungers or enjoying beach activities.
Address: M3MP+V5, Spiaggia Jacaranda
Phone: +254 719 214 521
Hours: Daily from 8 am to 9 pm
Mamiy’s Pizza
For pizza lovers, Mamiy’s on Watamu-Gede Road offers diverse pizzas and piadinas. Their cozy atmosphere and quick service make it a favorite.
Address: J2X7+R8C, Gede Watamu Rd
Phone: +254 795 214 014
Hours: Wed-Sat (12 to 2 pm), Mon-Tue (closed), Sun (5 pm to 10:30 pm)
Non Solo Gelato
An Italian restaurant known for its sweet treats, coffee, and sandwiches. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering gelatos, pastries, and authentic Italian dishes.
Address: J2V6+F9 Watamu
Phone: +254 794 600 128
Hours: Mon-Sat (7 am to 8 pm), Sun (closed)
Watamu offers a variety of must-try foods, including fresh seafood, Italian dishes, and Swahili specialties. Enjoy biryani chicken, beef pilau, Swahili breakfast items, and wood-fired pizzas. For a true taste of the coast, try a seafood platter or samaki wa nazi.
Some frequently asked questions include recommendations for top restaurants like Mamiy’s, Crab Shack, Amandina, Tamu, Kokomo, and Non Solo Gelato. Dinner hours are typically 7 to 9 pm, lunch from noon to 2 pm, and breakfast from 7 to 10 am. Tipping is appreciated, generally around 10-15% of the bill.
Whether you’re craving Swahili biryani, fresh seafood, or Italian pizzas, Watamu’s diverse dining options cater to all tastes. Explore the charming cafes, gelaterias, restaurants, and beach bars for an unforgettable culinary journey in this coastal paradise.