This place came well reviewed, so we decided to try it for lunch during our Kilifi holiday. The menu was fairly limited at this time of year, but there were still a few good options to choose from. We ordered the Lawyers prawns (spicy) with coconut rice, a chicken pita, and sirloin steak with chips β all of which were decent. Service was good, though itβs worth noting that pre-orders arenβt accepted. The restaurant also serves as the base for the Kilifi Yacht Clubβs marine operations, so youβre treated to views of boats and yachts moored in the distance, adding a relaxed and nautical touch to the experience.
Overview
If you're ever in Kilifi, Kenya, and looking for a perfect spot to unwind, grab a bite, or simply enjoy a coastal atmosphere, the Kilifi Boatyard is an absolute gem you shouldnβt miss. Located along the scenic Mnarani, Masha Road in Kilifi, this restaurant offers a delightful combination of great food, stunning views, and a laid-back ambiance. Whether you're visiting for a casual meal with friends, a romantic dinner, or just a place to relax after a busy day, Kilifi Boatyard has something for everyone.
The restaurant's location alone makes it a standout. Situated by the coast, diners can enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and the picturesque surroundings that enhance the overall dining experience. One of the best things about Kilifi Boatyard is the atmosphere. It exudes a blend of casual elegance, with modern touches yet retaining the rustic charm typical of coastal Kenya. The staff is welcoming and always ready to make your visit as comfortable as possible.
When it comes to the menu, Kilifi Boatyard doesnβt disappoint. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, a hearty local dish, or international flavors, there's a wide selection to choose from. The seafood is especially popular, as it's freshly sourced from the Indian Ocean. Dishes like grilled fish, prawns, and calamari are a hit among regulars and visitors alike. If seafood isnβt your thing, there are plenty of options for meat lovers and vegetarians, from grilled meats to perfectly prepared salads and pasta. The variety ensures that there's something to satisfy every taste.
But itβs not just about the food at Kilifi Boatyard. The restaurant has mastered the art of balancing delicious meals with an unforgettable experience. Dining here isn't just about eating; it's about soaking in the scenery, enjoying the tropical ambiance, and watching the sunset while savoring your favorite dish. The outdoor seating area gives guests an unobstructed view of the sea, perfect for enjoying the golden hour or a cool evening breeze. The vibe is relaxed, making it a fantastic place to spend an afternoon or evening with friends, family, or loved ones.
Many who have dined at the Kilifi Boatyard have praised the quality of both the food and the service. The reviews highlight the attention to detail, from the presentation of the dishes to the friendliness of the staff. Guests often mention how the waitstaff goes the extra mile to ensure that the dining experience is as enjoyable as possible. This level of service is just one of the reasons why many patrons choose to return time and again.
If you're planning to visit, itβs a good idea to call ahead or make a reservation, especially during peak tourist seasons, as it can get busy. Many have also noted that the Kilifi Boatyard offers a great spot for special occasions, whether itβs a birthday, anniversary, or just a day out with friends. The atmosphere, combined with exceptional food and service, makes it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
For those who appreciate a good drink, the bar at Kilifi Boatyard serves a range of refreshing cocktails, local beers, and international spirits. Itβs the perfect place to enjoy a sundowner, and the scenic backdrop only adds to the experience. The drink menu is thoughtfully curated to complement the vibrant flavors of the dishes on offer.
In terms of pricing, Kilifi Boatyard offers good value for the quality of food and experience provided. It's certainly not the cheapest option in the area, but it's definitely worth it for the overall experience. Expect to pay a bit more for the fresh seafood and premium dishes, but it's clear that the price matches the quality of the offerings. Given the setting and the service, many visitors find the experience to be worth every penny.
Whether you're a local resident or a traveler passing through Kilifi, the Kilifi Boatyard is a must-visit destination. Its combination of beautiful location, fresh and delicious food, excellent service, and relaxed atmosphere makes it stand out from other dining options in the area. So, next time you find yourself in Kilifi, be sure to swing by Mnarani, Masha Road, and indulge in an unforgettable meal at this coastal gem.
Good to know
Service options
β Outdoor seating β Dine-in β Delivery β TakeawayHighlights
β Great beer selection β Great cocktails β Great coffee β Great dessert β Great tea selection β Great wine listPopular for
β Breakfast β Lunch β Dinner β Solo diningAccessibility
β Wheelchair-accessible car park β Wheelchair-accessible entrance β Wheelchair-accessible seating β Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
β Alcohol β Beer β Cocktails β Coffee β Halal food β Happy-hour drinks β Happy-hour food β Quick bite β Small plates β Spirits β Vegan options β Vegetarian options β WineDining options
β Breakfast β Brunch β Lunch β Dinner β Catering β Dessert β Seating β Table serviceAmenities
β Bar on site β ToiletAtmosphere
β Casual β Cosy β Historic β Quiet β Romantic β Trendy β UpmarketCrowd
β Groups β TouristsPlanning
β Brunch reservations recommended β Lunch reservations recommended β Dinner reservations recommended β Accepts reservationsPayments
β Credit cards β Debit cards β NFC mobile paymentsChildren
β Good for kids β High chairs β Kids' menuParking
β Free of charge street parking β Free parking lot β ParkingPets
β Dogs allowedPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 566 reviews
Beautiful views and delicious food.. what more would you want? Iβm still thinking about the garlic and ginger crab. So good! Bonus if you like boats.
Late lunch turn into long evening with sunset mkalifi traditional sail boat ride, heading to sunset viewing with swarms of migratory birds landing to an island view. Magnificent baobab trees on the surrounding hills, and really made forgot how i had been there at the first place. Fish of the day was really good, and still fresh. The gravel access road can be improved to bring more potential.
From the other side of Kilifi Creek, the Boatyard looked so inviting that we decided to cross over and give it a try. The last 4 km of road are a bit rough, but at the end youβre rewarded with a beautiful atmosphere right by the water. The food was excellent, though we had to wait a little over an hour for it to be served. Still, it was worth it β and weβll definitely be back!
Flora our waitress was great. The food was amazing! Highly recommend the chilli crab
Easily one of my favorite places when I visit Kilifi.. Amazing views.. food.. vibe! We stopped by for a drink and ended up having dinner. Peter, the owner is warm & welcoming and engages diners humorously. Our waitress was prompt and very friendly. Will be back, for sure.
There is a long bumpy road, I went by boda and had driver for pickup return Nice scenery and had some garlic schrimps
A great place to chill with a nice view. β’Food were flavourful and visually appealing. I am a crab lover - I enjoyed their Crab Samosa, have yet to try the Crab Claws. The Ginger Garlic Crab was too gingery/spicy for me so I only had a spoonful of it. The next day, I ordered it again - requested Rebecca to inform the Chef to put less ginger in it- I enjoyed it! The sandwiches were nice. The steak, the pork, the prawns, the calamari were beautiful. My coke was cold and I suppose their beers too. Such an amazing gastronomical experience. β’The staff serves you with big smiles. Itβs really a lovely place to make your mind at ease