Looking for the best cafes in Nakuru? Discover 7 great coffee shops and cafes for breakfast, coffee dates, relaxing afternoons and delicious treats.

The 7 Best Cafes in Nakuru, Kenya: Where to Find Great Coffee and Relaxing Spots in 2026

Nakuru is one of those Kenyan towns where you can easily spend an afternoon exploring, enjoying good food and discovering lovely places to relax. Located in the beautiful Great Rift Valley, the city has a growing cafe scene with coffee shops, casual restaurants and cosy spots where you can meet friends or enjoy some quiet time.

Whether you are visiting Nakuru for a weekend getaway, travelling through the town on your way to Lake Nakuru National Park, or simply looking for somewhere to enjoy a cup of Kenyan coffee, there are several places worth checking out.

One thing I love about exploring cafes in Kenyan towns is that each place has something different to offer. Some are perfect for speciality coffee, others have beautiful outdoor spaces, while a few are better suited for breakfast, lunch or catching up with friends.

In this guide, I’ve put together seven cafes in Nakuru worth adding to your list. You’ll find options for coffee lovers, casual meetups, relaxed afternoons and satisfying meals.

Let’s get started….

What Are the Best Cafes in Nakuru?

Here are seven cafes to consider when looking for somewhere to enjoy coffee or a relaxed meal in Nakuru:

1. Roast Republik Roastery and Coffee Lounge
2. Mainstreet Coffee House Kenya
3. Java House Nakuru
4. Bustani Coffee
5. Kijani Kafe
6. Cafe Moran
7. Bakemart Coffee House

Each offers a different experience, so the best choice depends on whether you want speciality coffee, breakfast, a comfortable meeting place or an outdoor setting.

1. Roast Republik Roastery and Coffee Lounge – Best for Specialty Coffee

If you enjoy properly prepared coffee, Roast Republik Roastery and Coffee Lounge is one of the places to consider visiting in Nakuru.

Located inside Cigma Building on Old Nairobi Road, this coffee spot brings a speciality-coffee experience to the heart of Nakuru. It is particularly interesting for people who appreciate Kenyan coffee and want to explore different blends and flavours.

Unlike an ordinary restaurant where coffee is simply another item on the menu, a coffee roastery puts more attention on the beans and how the coffee is prepared.

This makes it a good option for anyone interested in learning more about locally roasted coffee or simply enjoying a cup during a busy day in town.

I would add this place to your list if coffee is the main reason you are looking for a cafe.

Location: Cigma Building, 4th Floor, Door 4A, Old Nairobi Road, Nakuru.

Best for: Specialty coffee, coffee enthusiasts and relaxed coffee breaks.

2. Mainstreet Coffee House Kenya – Best for Coffee Dates

Mainstreet Coffee House Kenya is another cafe worth considering when exploring Nakuru’s coffee scene.

Situated on the second floor of Finance House along Kenyatta Avenue, it offers a convenient location for anyone spending time in Nakuru CBD.

One of the appealing things about this cafe is that it offers more than just coffee. It is also a place where you can enjoy a casual meal, meet a friend or spend some time away from the busy streets.

The cafe has been associated with a cosy, artsy atmosphere, making it a good option for casual dates and conversations.

If you are exploring Nakuru town and want somewhere central to stop for refreshments, Mainstreet Coffee House is worth considering.

Location: Finance House, 2nd Floor, Kenyatta Avenue, Nakuru.

Best for: Coffee dates, casual meetings and catching up with friends.

3. Java House Nakuru – Best for Breakfast and Casual Dining

Java House is a familiar name for many coffee lovers in Kenya, and its Nakuru location provides another convenient place to enjoy coffee and a meal.

It is a good option if you want somewhere with a recognisable cafe-style menu rather than a small coffee-only establishment.

You can consider stopping here for breakfast, a coffee break or a casual meal while exploring the town. It is also convenient for travellers who want a familiar dining experience during a road trip through Nakuru.

One thing I particularly like about established cafe restaurants is that they usually offer several choices, making them suitable for groups where everyone wants something different.

Whether you are meeting someone for breakfast or taking a break from shopping, Java House is a practical option.

Location: Nakuru, including the Westside Mall and Kenyatta Avenue area.

Best for: Breakfast, coffee, casual dining and meetups.

4. Bustani Coffee – Best for a Relaxed Coffee Break

Bustani Coffee is another name to add to your list when searching for cafes in Nakuru.

Located within the Merica Hotel along Kenyatta Avenue, this cafe is a convenient stop for people spending time around the central part of town.

It is associated with coffee, tea, pastries and other cafe favourites. If you want somewhere to sit down and enjoy a warm drink without planning an entire restaurant outing, it is worth checking out.

Its central location also makes it practical for visitors staying in or around Nakuru CBD.

I would consider Bustani Coffee for a simple afternoon coffee break or a quick stop between activities.

Location: Merica Hotel, Kenyatta Avenue, Nakuru.

Best for: Coffee, tea, pastries and relaxed breaks.

5. Kijani Kafe – Best for an Outdoor Cafe Experience

If you prefer cafes with greenery and outdoor spaces, Kijani Kafe is one to consider.

Located along Menengai Drive in the Milimani area, this cafe and restaurant offers a different atmosphere from the typical coffee shop in the town centre.

The garden-style setting makes it appealing for people who want to enjoy food and drinks in a more relaxed environment.

It is also suitable for families and groups looking for somewhere to spend time together.

Rather than rushing through a quick coffee stop, this is the kind of place you can consider for a slower afternoon, a casual meal or a get-together with friends.

If you are exploring the Milimani area, you can add Kijani Kafe to your itinerary.

Location: Menengai Drive, Milimani, Nakuru.

Best for: Outdoor dining, family outings and relaxed afternoons.

6. Cafe Moran – Best for Breakfast and a Convenient Stop

Cafe Moran is another cafe to consider when looking for places to eat and enjoy refreshments in Nakuru.

Located at The Ole~Ken Hotel along West Road, opposite Valley Hospital, it is conveniently positioned for people moving around the central parts of the city.

The cafe offers a broader dining experience, with options associated with breakfast, drinks and meals throughout the day.

It is particularly worth considering if you are passing through Nakuru and want a convenient place to stop for breakfast or refreshments.

A relaxed breakfast is always a nice way to start a day of sightseeing, especially if you are planning to visit attractions such as Lake Nakuru National Park or Menengai Crater.

Location: The Ole~Ken Hotel, West Road, opposite Valley Hospital, Nakuru.

Best for: Breakfast, refreshments and convenient dining.

7. Bakemart Coffee House – Best for Coffee and Baked Treats

Bakemart Coffee House is another option to consider when exploring cafes in Nakuru CBD.

Located around Tropical House on Moi Road, the coffee house is associated with freshly prepared coffee, tea, baked goods and a broader food menu.

It is a good option for anyone who enjoys combining a hot drink with something sweet or looking for somewhere to enjoy a casual meal.

Coffee and baked treats are a combination that rarely disappoints, especially when you want a little afternoon break.

Its central location also makes it convenient for people running errands or exploring the town.

If you are around the CBD and looking for a coffee house, Bakemart is worth adding to your list.

Location: Tropical House, Moi Road, Nakuru CBD.

Best for: Coffee, tea, baked treats and casual meals.

Tips for Visiting Cafes in Nakuru

Before heading out to explore the best cafes in Nakuru, here are a few things worth keeping in mind.

1. Check opening hours before visiting. Cafe opening times can change, especially during public holidays and weekends. Check the latest information or contact the cafe before making a special trip.

2. Carry some cash. Many establishments accept mobile money and card payments, but having an alternative payment method is always useful.

3. Explore the CBD. Kenyatta Avenue and the surrounding streets have several coffee shops and casual dining options, making it easy to explore more than one place.

4. Consider your transport. If you are visiting cafes outside the CBD, such as those in Milimani, plan your transport in advance.

5. Ask about Wi-Fi and power outlets. If you intend to work remotely, confirm whether the cafe offers reliable Wi-Fi and charging facilities.

Final Thoughts: Which Are the Best Cafes in Nakuru?

Nakuru has a growing selection of cafes and coffee shops, giving visitors plenty of options for enjoying coffee, breakfast and relaxed meals.

If you love speciality coffee, consider Roast Republik. For a central coffee date, Mainstreet Coffee House is worth checking out. Java House is a familiar choice for breakfast and casual dining, while Kijani Kafe is a lovely option to consider if you prefer a garden-style setting.

The best part is that you do not have to travel far to enjoy a pleasant cafe experience in Nakuru.

Whether you are a local resident, visiting for a weekend or passing through on a road trip, make some time to explore the city’s cafe scene.

You might just discover your new favourite coffee spot.