The Best Places to Eat in Diani Beach

Nestled along the pristine shores of Kenya’s Swahili Coast, Diani Beach is a world-class beach destination where turquoise waters meet powdery white sands, offering a perfect escape for sun-seekers and adventure lovers alike. But beyond its idyllic beaches, Diani’s dining scene is a culinary treasure trove, reflecting the region’s rich heritage. Famous for its fresh seafood and a tantalizing blend of spices, the local cuisine fuses African traditions with Asian influences—think coconut-infused curries, grilled prawns, and vibrant vegetable stews. 

From casual quick breakfast options to lingering brunch spots, family-friendly lunches to sophisticated high-end dinners, and cuisines spanning Indian, Chinese, Korean, Italian, and international fare, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring no one is left out. 

While some beachfront resorts book meals as part of Bed and Breakfast or self-catering packages, Diani’s endless array of cafes and restaurants means you can dine out anytime, day or night. Here are our top recommendations on where to eat in Diani Beach. 

Prices are approximate and based on October 2025

Breakfast: Start Your Day with Ocean Views and Fresh Brews

Kick off your mornings in Diani with these spots that blend casual vibes with flavorful bites, perfect for fueling up before a day of snorkeling or beach lounging.

Kokkos (~KES 500–1,000 / ~USD 3.85–7.70)
Known for its laid-back beach shack atmosphere, Kokkos is a go-to for quick, no-fuss breakfasts featuring fluffy pancakes drizzled with local honey, tropical fruit platters, and strong Kenyan coffee brewed to perfection. 

Nomad Restaurant (~KES 800–1,500 / ~USD 6.15–11.55)
This vibrant eatery earns its stripes with a fusion of global and coastal flavors, specializing in hearty acai bowls topped with fresh mango and passionfruit, alongside avocado toast and smoothie bowls that highlight seasonal Kenyan produce. Nomad’s breezy open-air setting and eco-friendly ethos make it a favorite for health-conscious travelers starting their day right.

Asha Bistro (~KES 1,000–2,000 / ~USD 7.70–15.40)
Renowned for its elegant yet approachable vibe, Asha Bistro delights with Mediterranean-inspired breakfasts like shakshuka simmered in spiced tomato sauce or fluffy omelets stuffed with feta and herbs. It’s a serene spot for a slightly more refined morning meal, complete with artisanal pastries and panoramic ocean vistas.

Leonardos (~KES 700–1,200 / ~USD 5.40–9.25)
A hidden gem for Italian-Kenyan crossovers, Leonardos is celebrated for its wood-fired breakfast pizzas topped with eggs, prosciutto, and rocket, paired with creamy cappuccinos. This cozy cafe captures the essence of slow mornings, drawing in locals and visitors who appreciate a European twist on Diani’s fresh ingredients.

Sails Beach Bar (~KES 600–1,200 / ~USD 4.60–9.25)
Famous for its toes-in-the-sand casualness, Sails Beach Bar serves up classic beach breakfasts of grilled fish croissants, fresh yogurt parfaits with baobab fruit, and tangy mimosas. It’s the ultimate spot for a relaxed, sun-drenched start, where the bar’s colorful sails provide shade and the Indian Ocean provides the soundtrack.

Lunch: Midday Feasts with a Coastal Twist

As the sun climbs high, refuel at these lunch havens that cater to everything from quick bites to leisurely family gatherings, all while embracing Diani’s seafood bounty.

Nomad (~KES 1,000–2,000 / ~USD 7.70–15.40)
Building on its breakfast fame, Nomad shines at lunch with shareable platters of grilled octopus, quinoa salads bursting with coastal greens, and vegan curries infused with Swahili spices. Its commitment to sustainable sourcing and vibrant, Instagram-worthy presentations make it a midday magnet for foodies.

Cassamia (~KES 1,500–3,000 / ~USD 11.55–23.10)
This upscale beachfront darling is lauded for its refined fusion lunches, where East African staples like pilau rice meet Asian stir-fries and Italian pastas, all plated with artistic flair. Cassamia’s serene garden setting and impeccable service elevate it to a must-visit for those craving sophistication with a sea breeze.

Amigos (~KES 800–1,500 / ~USD 6.15–11.55)
A lively Mexican-Kenyan hybrid, Amigos is beloved for its zesty tacos filled with fresh prawns or jackfruit for veggie options, alongside nachos loaded with local cheeses and guacamole made from Diani’s ripe avocados. It’s the perfect family-friendly lunch spot, buzzing with energy and affordable margaritas to toast the afternoon.

Pellet Cafe Diani (~KES 600–1,200 / ~USD 4.60–9.25)
What sets Pellet Cafe apart is its inspiring social mission—employing deaf individuals to empower the community—while serving up wholesome lunches like falafel wraps, hummus platters, and gluten-free flatbreads. Known for its warm hospitality and Middle Eastern-inspired flavors, it’s a feel-good choice that nourishes both body and soul.

Dinner: Evenings Under the Stars with Flavorful Flair

As dusk falls over Diani’s horizon, these dinner destinations offer everything from romantic escapes to casual feasts, letting the night’s magic unfold over plates of spice-kissed delights.

Salty Squid Bar (~KES 1,000–2,000 / ~USD 7.70–15.40)
This quirky seafood haven is famed for its inventive squid dishes—from tempura rings to chili-lime ceviche—paired with craft cocktails that capture the ocean’s salty kiss. With live music and fairy lights twinkling overhead, Salty Squid turns evenings into festive, flavor-packed adventures.

Amigos (~KES 800–1,500 / ~USD 6.15–11.55)
Doubling down on its lunch appeal, Amigos transforms into a dinner hotspot with sizzling fajitas, enchiladas stuffed with Swahili-spiced chicken, and vegan burritos that pack a punch. Its festive ambiance and generous portions make it a crowd-pleaser for groups winding down the day with Latin flair.

Nyumbani (~KES 700–1,500 / ~USD 5.40–11.55)
Embracing authentic Swahili roots, Nyumbani is cherished for its home-style dinners of coconut fish curry, ugali with sukuma wiki greens, and spiced goat stew simmered low and slow. This intimate spot feels like dining at a friend’s coastal home, offering an immersive taste of Kenya’s cultural heart.

Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant (~KES 3,000–6,000 / ~USD 23.10–46.15)
For fine dining romance, nothing tops Ali Barbour’s, set in a 17th-century coral cave aglow with candlelight. It’s legendary for its gourmet seafood towers, lobster thermidor, and wine-paired tasting menus that blend international elegance with ocean-fresh catches, creating unforgettable nights in a truly magical locale.

Jollys Pizzeria (~KES 600–1,200 / ~USD 4.60–9.25)
Casual pizza perfection defines Jollys, where thin-crust pies topped with Kenyan prawns, peri-peri chicken, or margherita classics emerge from a stone oven. Affordable and family-oriented, it’s the go-to for laid-back dinners under the stars, complete with craft beers and a side of gelato.

Colobus Shade (~KES 800–1,500 / ~USD 6.15–11.55)
Affordability meets excellence at Colobus Shade, renowned for its buttery garlic mussels, whole grilled snapper, and veggie tempura—all sourced sustainably from local waters. Shaded by colobus monkey-friendly trees, this spot delivers high-quality seafood without breaking the bank, ideal for sunset savoring.

Whether you’re chasing sunrises with a smoothie bowl or toasting sunsets with cave-cooked lobster, Diani Beach’s dining landscape promises endless discoveries. Pro tip: Book ahead for popular spots like Ali Barbour’s, and always ask about daily catches for the freshest fare. Prices are approximate and may vary.