Nairobi nightlife can be hard to keep up with so here is a little breakdown of where and what to do in a city that barely sleeps.
1. The Alchemist Bar
The Alchemist Bar is not your average bar. It’s not necessarily a bar even but it has a definite ‘too cool for school’ vibe that will make you fall in love with it. There’s something new in every nook and cranny of the bar and it definitely does have a festival, free-love feel to it. But get ready for a long night when you go there because the only time you will actually leave the joint is at the crack of dawn.
2. Privée Westlands
Privée is one of the classier spots to hangout in the city but the great thing about this space is that it is accessible. Located at Fortis Tower, Privée has gained a reputation for hosting not only Kenyan but also international artistes and has become an event ground in its own right. Only here you actually get the chance to sit down when you tire out from the dancing. Major Lazer’s Walshy Fire, Mi Casa and Trey Songz are just some of the names that have graced the hangout.
3. KIZA Restaurant and Lounge.
KIZA is in fact an international brand, it just so happens to have an offshoot in Kenya. Another elegant addition to the club scene, KIZA is a bit more mature in terms of the crowd that frequents the spot but that doesn’t mean that you can’t set foot in the place. Just keep it classy folks. With a terrace and all the works, clients are now able to smoke shisha to their hearts content. Theme nights and great food, what more could you ask for?
4. B-Club.
The storied B-Club, or billionaires club depending on who you ask, has built its reputation on exclusivity, extravagance and overpricing. Feel like getting drenched in champagne that costs Sh.20, 000 a bottle? You can get all this and more at B-Club. Bottle service, a legitimate VIP area and a money canon, if you are feeling rich then this is the place for you to rub shoulders with politicians’ children and other inebriated movers and shakers.
5. Brew Bistro and Lounge.
Another bar with a mature clientele, Brew Bistro and Lounge is unassuming from the first impression but stepping inside reveals an industrial yet sleek interior and its crowning glory is the terrace. Brew Bistro’s name should give away the one detail that makes it gets a cushy spot, the spot’s craft premium beers that are brewed in-house, so no generic brands that you could buy at any retailer are served.
6. WeT.
This bar has become more famous for its shameless plugs on Nairobi Diaries than its services. In the full light of day the décor is a bit much to take in but it might be that way to force guests awake when they are getting dreary from the drink. No matter Wet Lounge at the Royal Orchid Hotel might be an adult affair but the only thing that really counts is the change.