After dark · Nairobi, Kenya

15 Best Bars & Nightlife Spots in Nairobi

From first aperitivo to last call, this is Nairobi after dark, ordered by the travelers who went.

Order reflects real review volume, out of 88 tracked Nairobi places. Refreshed monthly.

  1. The Alchemist

    BarFree entry

    The Alchemist is a vibrant bar in Nairobi's Parklands area, popular for its innovative drinks and energetic vibe.

    Read our full guide →
  2. Brew Bistro Fortis

    Bar

    Brew Bistro Fortis is a popular rooftop bar located in the Fortis Tower in Westlands, Nairobi.

    Read our full guide →
  3. Milan

    BarFree entry

    Milan is a stylish bar located on the second floor of The Mirage Tower in Nairobi, Kenya.

    Read our full guide →
  4. The Bar Next Door

    BarFree entry

    The Bar Next Door is a popular hangout in Nairobi's Othaya Road area, offering a laid-back escape from the city's hustle.

    Read our full guide →
  5. K1 Klub House

    Bar

    K1 Klub House is a well-known nightlife spot in Nairobi, Kenya, drawing a diverse crowd of locals and visitors alike.

    Read our full guide →
  6. Bar Next Door Kiambu Road

    Bar

    Bar Next Door Kiambu Road is a buzzing nightlife spot situated along Nairobi's Northern Bypass, drawing a crowd of locals and visitors alike.

    Read our full guide →
  7. Mwenda's Pub and cocktails

    Bar

    Mwenda's Pub and cocktails is a bustling bar located on Utalii Street in Nairobi, known for its energetic vibe and extensive selection of drinks.

    Read our full guide →
  8. Artcaffé Gastro Bar Westlands Square

    Bar

    Artcaffé Gastro Bar Westlands Square is a popular dining and drinking destination in Nairobi's bustling Westlands area.

    Read our full guide →
  9. Number 7 Cocktail bar

    BarFree entry

    Number 7 Cocktail Bar is a stylish nightlife destination located on Koinange Street in the heart of Nairobi.

    Read our full guide →
  10. Sky Lounge

    BarFree entry

    Sky Lounge is a trendy rooftop bar located on Kaunda Street in Nairobi's central business district.

    Read our full guide →
  11. Havana Bar & Restaurant

    Bar

    Havana Bar & Restaurant is a popular nightlife destination located on Woodvale Grove in Nairobi.

    Read our full guide →
  12. Fifteen Rooftop

    BarFree entry

    Fifteen Rooftop is a stylish bar perched on the 15th floor of The Curve By The Park, overlooking Nairobi's bustling Mombasa Road.

    Read our full guide →
  13. The Roof- ibis Styles Hotel Rooftop

    Bar

    The Roof at ibis Styles Hotel is a popular rooftop bar in Nairobi, known for its panoramic views of the city skyline and a buzzing social scene.

    Read our full guide →
  14. Black Samurai Lounge

    BarFree entry

    Black Samurai Lounge is a popular nightlife spot in Nairobi, located within the Maralal Oasis complex on Rose Avenue.

    Read our full guide →
  15. 270° Rooftop

    Bar

    270° Rooftop is a premier rooftop bar located on the 18th floor of the Escada building in Nairobi's bustling central business district.

    Read our full guide →

How we pick these

Bars, pubs and nightlife in Nairobi ranked by how highly people rate them, drawn from the 88 places we track. Updated monthly.

Good to know

When it gets going

Most bars in Nairobi fill up later in the evening rather than right after work.

Dress codes

A few rooftop and cocktail spots have a smart-casual door policy.

Getting home

Check the last metro or line up a ride before a late night out.

Common questions

Where is the nightlife in Nairobi?+

This list ranks the best-rated bars and nightlife spots in Nairobi so you can find the right area for the night you want.

What time do bars close in Nairobi?+

Closing times vary by venue and neighborhood; late-night spots are noted where we have hours.

Is Nairobi good for a night out?+

Yes — from relaxed pubs to late bars, the highest-rated options are all here.

Daylight plans? Best things to do in Nairobi · where to eat · hidden gems

Rather have a human do the planning? A Local Friend can build this day for you, at local prices.