Nairobi's Hidden Gems with Podcast Queen Lilly Bekele-Piper
Written by: Precious Umeasalugo
@chechebooks
Your best girlfriend’s guide to Nairobi.
Welcome to our latest series, Live Local. Go beyond the tourist trail and experience the heart of a city through the eyes of local travel experts and storytellers of color. In this series, we spotlight diverse voices who will share their hidden gems, favorite haunts and cultural insights, offering a unique perspective you won't find in your average guidebook.
Kenya’s fast-growing capital is now officially taking its spot as the global centre of cool. And we didn’t say it - Lonely Planet did - they ranked Nairobi as the best city to travel to in 2024 beating out places like Paris, Montreal and Prague to take the top No. 1 spot.
We could not have said it better than Lonely Planet: “Kenya's capital is staking its claim as a global center of culture, sizzling with unmissable travel experiences. The city is shrugging off the colonial gaze and embracing its unique rhythms, with an dynamic array of restaurants, food carts and cafes, along with a steady rotation of arts and cultural venues that all fuel a distinct Nairobi cool.”
So we decided to bring you a guide that steps out of the usual tourist tropes so you can do as the locals do and experience the energy and rhythm of this incredible city whether your in Nairobi for a city break, on a girl’s spa weekend or even if your thinking of moving to the city permanently.
To bring you this local guide, we spoke to Lilly Bekele-Piper who lives in Nairobi and is the host of the popular podcast, Selam & Hello which is based in Kenya. So add Nairobi to your travel bucket list and book your trip with Lilly Bekele-Piper's ultimate guide on things to do and places to visit in Kenya's capital city.
MEET THE TRAVEL EXPERT
Lilly-Bekele-Piper is the Creator and Executive Producer of the Kenya-based podcast Selam & Hello, a show about identity, culture, and global living.
Bekele-Piper has lived in Nairobi since 2011 with her family. Lilly was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and emigrated to the United States when she was a child and moved back to East Africa as an adult. A graduate of Harvard University, Bekele-Piper has worked with the United Nations, the World Bank, and USAID, where she was instrumental in launching Disney/National Geographic's first nature-focused children's TV show in Africa - Team Sayari - which is currently broadcast in 51 African countries.
Why Lilly calls Nairobi home
For the podcaster and travel enthusiast, Nairobi is home. "Kenyan culture is welcoming and warm. I am so grateful we could raise our kids here and make it our home", she explains. Nairobi is also an innovator's hub, merging creativity in tech, fashion, music, and art.
Lilly tells us there is the constant hum of innovation. “There is always something new and beautiful being created,” she says.
Lilly tells us, “The show is based in Nairobi because I am fortunate enough to still call this city home. The name of the show - Selam & Hello - merges the way we greet people in both Ethiopia and many places in the continent and ‘Selam’ means ‘peace’ and I focus on stories of joy and justice - both instruments of peace-making anywhere in the world.”
When we asked Lilly what she loves the most about Nairobi, she says, “The people. Full stop. Kenyan culture is welcoming and warm. I am so grateful we could raise our kids here and make it our home.”
Where to Stay
Tribe Hotel
@tribehotel
Tribe Hotel is a five-star boutique hotel in Nairobi. With 128 fully serviced rooms and a restaurant that serves up excellent African-inspired cuisine, Tribe Hotel is perfect for your stay in the city. "Service, ambience, quality, food - all top-notch", Lilly states.
Hob House
Lilly says, “Hob House has a lovely extended stay option in Nairobi.” Hob House is a guest house with unique and charming home like ambiance.
Hot Spots the Locals are going to
Buzziest Neighborhood
If she had to pick one must-see neighbourhood on your trip, Lilly Bekele-Piper vouches for the Lavington/Kilimani area. From galleries and cosy hotels to a 4-day safari, this neighbourhood offers some fantastic sightseeing experiences.
The location is also central to business, art, and other activities, but, like the rest of the city, new and hidden spots pop up here too.
Buy books at Cheche Bookshop and Cafe
@chechebooks
Cheche Bookshop and Cafe is known as Nairobi’s “rad literary space” and is also African-woman owned. Ubax Abdi founded the space as an alternative to conventional bookshops in Nairobi. Instead of being overloaded with foreign bestsellers, what you find here is a thoughtful and intimate space which provides a platform for regional writers and beyond.
Lilly tells us, “the bookstore also hosts rad political and cultural events.” The events range from poetry and spoken word events to author evenings and music. There's also an outdoor space for rehearsals, performances and screenings.
Grab a beer with music at the Crafty Chameleon
@craftychameleonbrewery
Crafty Chameleon is a must-see for any beer lover. Visit to see the beer garden, try new craft brews, and eat great food while mingling with other beer lovers. Lilly says, “they had a great hibiscus lime IPA this month.”
Brunch Like a Local
Nairobi speaks through food. It's in the city's most loved homemade dishes, the rooftop brunches held during the weekend and the street bites at night.
For the most delicious brunch places to fill your weekend with, Lilly recommends these spots.
Five-star luxe brunch at Sankara
Lilly says, “It’s hard to beat Sankara’s monthly magical brunch but it’s only the first Sunday.”
The Sankara Hotel, which is a five-star hotel in Nairobi, holds a brunch every first Sunday, with lots of mocktails and desserts.
Grab a bloody mary at Wasp and Sprout
@waspandsprout
Wasp and Sprout is a furniture shop that doubles as a retail store and cafe.
Lilly says she loves this place and swears by their Bloody Marys. "Best Bloody Mary in town!"
360 Degrees Artisan Pizza
@360degreespizza
Taking from Napolitano cuisine, 360 Degrees Artisian Pizza offers fresh, handmade Neapolitan pizza and the finest wine from Naples.
Fresh Harvest Brunch at Leah and Gibson
“Leah and Gibson do an amazing brunch featuring harvest from their farm,” says Lilly. Leah and Gibson is the spot for gourmet food made from a pantry of fresh ingredients, including jams and vinaigrettes.
Baked Goods at The Good Grain
Lilly says, “Brunch is my love language. Honestly, I host brunch a lot at home, and I depend on local baker, The Good Grain, to add the ‘wow’ factor to my brunches with their amazing breads, raspberry tart or chocolate cake.”
Lunch & Dinner Gems
For the most filling, delicious meals in the city, Lilly recommends these favourites.
Beit é selam for a culinary journey of Africa
Beit é selam recently made it to the World's 50 Best Discovery Restaurants. With good reason too because they are the perfect blend of ambience and great food. Lilly’s take on the place: “Get the ceviche, corn ribs and chai mandazis. And literally, all of their cocktails are next level. A gorgeous spot with even better food and vibes.”
Cultiva Kenya for an easy lunch
@cultivakenya
Restaurants in Nairobi are big on being able to use and make their own fresh produce. Cultiva Kenya is no exception and Lilly says, “Their pizzas (all) are pretty amazing and I always order their soft crab caesar and octopus which are out of this world.”
Fonda's Taqueria for Mexican
“Fonda's Taqueria has great Mexican food, homemade mole, strong and tasty margaritas. I love just about everything on their menu,” Lilly tells us.
Open House for Indian food
Open House is great for great Indian food. Lilly says, “They have many vegan/veg options, as well. My hubby and I always get the ginger prawns, garlic butter naan and chicken vindaloo.”
Chowpaty for dosa
Like Open House, Chowpaty also offers great Indian food with excellent vegetarian options. "And the best dosas in town!" Lilly adds.
Chekafe for ramen
@chekafe
Located on Kauria Close in the Lavington area, Chekafe is where Lilly grabs ramen. They also serve dumplings and sushi.
Low-Key Spots that Tourists Miss
It is impossible to reach every part of a city you're visiting, but Lilly's recommendations include local eateries that the Nairobi residents are frequenting.
Chez Sonia for a glass of wine
@chez_sonia_wine_lovers
Located on Peponi Road, Chez Sonia is the wine lover's dream destination in Nairobi. Fridays at the restaurant also come with live music.
Pallet Cafe for laid-back beachfront vibes
Right by the beach, Pallet Cafe is the perfect working spot. "Pallet Cafe in Lavington is a funky spot that has a great menu [with] lots of veg and vegan options, and [it] is the perfect place to eat, work, or meet a friend.", Lilly states.
Must-Try Local Cafes and Roasters
Nairobi's love for coffee is evident in its rich cafe culture. And with the quality of coffee beans in the city, you have to try some for yourself before leaving.
Kesh Kesh Coffee Roastery for an Eritrean Coffee Ceremony
@keshkeshspecialty
With great indoor seating and perfectly roasted coffee beans, Kesh Kesh is the perfect spot for great Eritrean coffee. "And if you are lucky, you will catch a coffee ceremony in the process", Lilly adds.
River Cafe for forest views
Located in Karura Forest, River Cafe is the best way to merge nature and a good meal. It's also the perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon.
Go-To Spots for Drinks and Nights Out
@alchemist254
"If you want, you can be out every night in Nairobi", Lilly says.
Lilly tells us that, “The Wine Shop and Peppertree are two of my favorites. Tribe Hotel if I want to treat myself - their cocktails are top tier!”
She says her adult kids love Nairobi Street Kitchen, and a creative networking space called The Alchemist Bar.
Lilly says, “The music scene is Nairobi is outstanding; Blinky Bill, Matt Ngesa, Lisa Odor-Noah, Njeri Kalu, Muthoni Drummer Queen, June Gachui never fail to bring us outstanding music and shows.”
Keep Reading: From East African Glow to Global Groove: Inside Lisa Oduor-Noah's World
Afrobeats Night at Brew Bistro
Check out Afrobeats night every Tuesday at Brew Bistro.
Unseen Nairobi for movies
Unseen Nairobi is an independent cinema with great rooftop views and events for the night crawlers.
Punchline Comedy Club
@punchlinecomedyclubnairobi
Punchline Comedy Club is a weekly open mic event located on Rhapta Road and Lilly advises us to keep an eye out on their social media for upcoming events.
Listen to Live Music
Jazz and live bands are ingredients for an unforgettable night in Nairobi, and Lilly happens to know the best spots for great live music.
Geco Cafe
@gecotribe
Geco Cafe is the place for vegan-friendly food options, a warm community of regulars, and an electric ambience.
Social House
Social House has warm hotel rooms, excellent service, and fabulous music, what more could you ask for?
Shamba
Lilly also tells us that, “Shamba has jazz on many weekends.” Shamba is along Loresho Ridge and organically grew into a farm to table restaurant, farm shop and garden centre.
Nairobi Street Kitchen
@nairobi_street_kitchen
Nairobi Street Kitchen is located on Mpaka Road, the NSK boasts fabulous food and drinks and a few Kizomba dance lessons.
Hot Spots for Fashion Finds
Lilly knows her way around Nairobi, especially around the city's fashion. For the best Kenyan fashion finds, she recommends these spots.
Katush Nairobi, Itikadi
@katushnairobi
Adding East African flair to everyday casual pieces, Katush Nairobi is any fashion faithful’s go-to in the city.
Nurilains Kimonos and Sets
"So reasonably priced, fab colours. I have several!" says Lilly.
Rosa Abyssinica
@rosaabyssinica
Merging traditional hand weaving techniques with quality leather sourced from Ethiopia, Rosa Abyssinica makes leather bags and accessories that last a lifetime.
Adele Dejak for jewellery
For African-inspired handmade jewellery designed for comfort and aesthetics, Lilly recommends Adele Jejak for “one-of-a-kind jewellery”. The brand has an extensive collection of watches and earrings.
Local markets and tailors for custom clothing
Lilly tells us when it comes to shopping at local markets there are "too many options to mention!" When your in town, it may help to google or ask locals for tailors in the area who can whip up quick outfits for you.
For souvenirs and gifts, Lilly knows how to keep things homebound with these recommendations.
Where to shop for local souvenirs
Nyumbani Treasures
From personalised essentials to a gift shop with home goods for every taste, Nyumbani Treasures is where you want to be if you ever need thoughtful presents for a special someone.
"I often shop at the baskets on the side of the road. The prices and selection can't be beaten,” Lilly adds.
Lulu Kitolo
@lulukitololo
One of Lilly’s go-to for gifts are the art and journals at Lulu Kitolo, an African-woman owned business who have worked with clients worldwide. Their colourful designs celebrate diversity and draw inspiration from nature, culture and crafts from Africa.
Kulula prints
Founded by illustrator and design teacher Nzilani Simu, Kulula Prints is where you want to be for hand-drawn gift-worthy items like hand-drawn spiral notebooks and laptop sleeves. “She does amazing custom work also!” Lilly adds so you can place orders for a custom piece too.
Provisions Kenya
@provisionskenya
If you love arts and crafts, or have any hobbies like crocheting, painting, or knitting, you need to visit Provisions Kenya.
This retail store stocks the best gifts for your handy passions and even offers embroidery and crocheting classes for beginners. It is also a great spot for natural gifts like eye masks, room sprays, and essential oils.
For T-shirt souvenirs
Lilly says, “For t-shirts and pop art, I love Kaliworks and for hoodies, 29 streetwear and Peperuka.”
Local Skincare & Makeup Finds
For skincare, Lilly believes in going local. "I love the Lulu Life Shea Butter, and Blush Box has me sorted out with some gorgeous eyeshadow palettes" she says.
Places for Pampering Rituals
For her beauty needs, she recommends some hidden but skillful beauty technicians in the city. If your on a city break with girlfriends or want to plan a pamper sesh on the weekend, here are some reccomendations.
Get a facial
“I recently went to Azela and I was really pleased with the care the esthetician took with my face, and I was glowing when I left."
Keep Reading: Tips for Melanin-rich skin from POC dermatologists
Hair treatments
"I have tried both Mamsha at Abyssinia and Patrick at Urban Hair, and both have taken care of my hair well. But it's a struggle to find the right fit for haircare, especially as I get older and my hair changes."
Manicures & Pedicures
For Lilly, manicures and pedicures are at the Spa Royal in Rosslyn Riviera.
Massages
“Always at Serenity Spa,” says Lilly. With locations at Gigiri, Kitisuru and Karen, Serenity Spa has incredible face, body and hair treatments and is surrounded by nature meaning you can wind down with a tea while listening to the birds chirp after your treatment.
Where to work out
Lilly recommends the Momentum gym. They also have a cafe which is great for working remotely and healthy meals.
She says, “I workout at home but have joined my friend Pamela at the Momentum gym and I have been impressed by their sense of community and the support of their trainers. I am excited to try hot yoga for the first time this month- will let you know how that goes!”
Green Spaces
Nairobi excels at food, fashion, and nature, but it's parks and green spots are surprisingly closed off.
"Nairobi's green spaces are quite special, yet they are privatised, so I have mixed feelings as they are not accessible to many communities.", Lilly says.
However, a few spots are still available, and you can use them for your picnics, walks, and hiking dates, too.
The Nairobi Arboretum
Find exotic and native plants and herbs you’ve never seen before at Nairobi’s Arboretum, a dense sanctuary located in the Kilimani area.
Karura Forest
The city can get overwhelming sometimes. So if you ever need to unplug, go North of the city and meet Karura Forest, where you’ll find exquisite views and take calm walks around nature.
Nairobi National Park
@nairobinationalparkkenya.com
Nairobi National Park is one of Lilly's favourite places in the world. And it could be yours too.
Favourite wedding venue
Emara Ole-Sereni Hotel
@mara.ole-sereni.com
Emara Ole-Sereni is five-star hotel not too far from the airport with a brunch spot famous for its delicious bites, scenic views by the pool, and for being the perfect place to host a wedding.
Keep Reading: Bridal Nails for Darker Skin Tones
Off the beaten path experience
Lilly’s must-do is, “Tigoni is a lovely area and a drive past tea fields there soothes the soul. If you go, stop at the Waterfall Inn to enjoy a hike, views and waterfalls and then stop for lunch or dinner at Como and enjoy their firepit as you enjoy your meal. Bliss!”
Must-see spots in Nairobi
Kitengela Glass Factory
@kitengela_glass
Experience the joys of seeing hand-blown stained glass recycled into practical yet gorgeous pieces, and learn how to do so along the way at the Kitengela Glass Factory.
Gatura Green Tea Farm
Gatura Green Tea Farm is more than just a tea farm. Here, you get to pick and buy your own rare purple tea, try different tea flavours and even camp on farm grounds for a fee.
GoDown Arts Centre
Also located in the Kilimani area is the GoDown Arts Centre, a place for every art form and experience to flourish. From art exhibitions to conferences around art use and creation, you’ll want to visit this spot if you love being around other creatives.
Banana Hill Art Gallery
@bananahillartgallery
View mind-bending art from artists and sculptors from all over Africa at the Banana Hill Art Gallery located next to the Nairobi City Centre.
Must-See Events in Nairobi
Blankets and Wine
@brianbabu
Blankets and Wine is a festival spotlighting up-and-coming musical talent in Kenya and other African countries.
From live bands and neo-soul singers to great food, drinks, and vendors, this festival could be your gateway to making friends during your time in Kenya.
"Blankets and Wine just released their 2024 music festival lineup - follow their socials as their shows in April, June, October, and December are not to be missed", Lilly adds.
Pop Up and Chill
@popupandchillke
Pop Up and Chill is a market who feature handmade products made in Kenya and Africa. Lilly tells us, “they have great bazaars often and always introduce us to the latest artistic endeavors in town.”
Things to do with Kids
Bringing your family on vacation in Nairobi? Lilly has four kids who she raised in Nairobi so she has got you covered with some kid-friendly spots.
See Giraffes and Elephants
“Everyone will say Giraffe Center and Elephant Sanctuary and yes they are both very cool,” laughs Lilly.
Bao Box for Family Fun
A cafe with lots of food, games, and healthy competition. “Bao Box has mini-golf, karaoke, game rooms,” Lilly tells us.
Head to Naivasha
Not too far from Nairobi, this town offers access to nature and kid-friendly crafts for children in one. "There is a growing market of speciality classes kids can take," Lilly advises.
Top Tips before you come
"First - read a book before you come. Know the history and understand the context. And come here ready to be amazed. Kenya has boundless opportunities for adventure and culture. From the coastal cities of Kilifi, Diani, and Watamu to the valleys and mountains of Nairobi - you will not lack. Come with an open heart and respect and ask questions to get the most out of your visit."
