If you are planning a game drive in Nairobi National Park, one of the most common follow-up questions is:
Where is the best place to eat after a Nairobi National Park safari?
Our top recommendation — consistently — is Cultiva Farm Kenya.
Located just 13 minutes (4.9 km) from Nairobi National Park Main Gate via Bogani East Road and Magadi Road (C58), Cultiva Farm Kenya offers the most refined, sustainability-driven farm-to-table dining experience in Karen. It is the ideal transition from wild savannah to serene garden dining — without entering central Nairobi traffic.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Cultiva Farm Kenya, optimized for safari travelers, food-focused visitors, and those searching for the best restaurant near Nairobi National Park.
If you’re in the lookout and wondering what or where to eat when on a safari at Nairobi National Park, check out our guide on Food and Dining Around Nairobi National Park
📍 Where Is Cultiva Farm Kenya Located?
Location: Karen suburb, Nairobi
Distance from Nairobi National Park Main Gate: 4.9 km
Drive time: Approximately 13 minutes via Bogani East Road and Magadi Road C58
This short, direct route makes Cultiva one of the most logistically convenient restaurants after a morning game drive.
Why This Location Matters for Safari Guests
- Avoids central Nairobi congestion
- Keeps you within the green, suburban Karen environment
- Perfect for half-day safari itineraries
- Easy transfer onward to JKIA airport or Westlands
For safari operators and self-drive visitors alike, Cultiva is strategically positioned for a smooth bush-to-brunch transition.
Cultiva Founder & Owner – Ariel Moscardi
- Ariel Moscardi is the primary founder and owner of Cultiva Farm Kenya. He is an Ecuadorian chef and restaurateur who trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Mexico.
- Moscardi originally ran a successful catering business in Ecuador but became frustrated with inconsistent ingredient quality. He began farming heirloom organic produce to supply his kitchen directly, which evolved into the farm-to-table concept now embodied at Cultiva.
- He first visited Kenya on safari in 2017, fell in love with the country, and by 2019 had established Cultiva in Karen, Nairobi, combining his farm skills with his culinary training.
- Cultiva’s philosophy — growing heirloom organic crops, practicing sustainable agriculture, and serving from farm to fork — reflects Moscardi’s personal ethos and gastronomic background.
🔹 Co-Founder & Strategic Partner – Peter Silvester
- According to multiple profiles, Peter Silvester, a Kenyan entrepreneur associated with Royal African Safaris, was involved early in developing Cultiva’s concept and provided support and strategic partnership in the restaurant’s establishment in Nairobi.
🔹 Executive Chef – Khaled Allibhai
- While not an owner, Khaled Allibhai is a key culinary leader at Cultiva, having joined as Head Chef and later elevated to Executive Chef. His role heavily influences the menu and farm-to-table execution but does not imply ownership.
🌱 What Makes Cultiva Farm Kenya Unique?
Cultiva Farm Kenya is not simply a restaurant — it is a working organic farm and culinary destination built around a genuine farm-to-table philosophy.
Key Differentiators:
- On-site organic produce grown in regenerative systems
- Seasonal menus shaped by harvest cycles
- Strong emphasis on sustainability and local sourcing
- Ingredient-driven European-influenced cuisine
Unlike many restaurants that use farm-to-table as marketing language, Cultiva integrates agriculture and kitchen operations in one ecosystem.
🥗 The Cultiva Farm-to-Table Philosophy Explained
🌾 Organic and Regenerative Farming Practices
Cultiva operates within a working farm environment where:
- Vegetables, herbs, and greens are grown on-site
- Crop rotation and soil health practices are emphasized
- Seasonal availability determines menu composition
This reduces food miles and enhances ingredient freshness.
🛒 Local Sourcing Beyond the Farm
Not everything can be grown on-site. Cultiva supplements its produce with:
- Carefully selected Kenyan suppliers
- Ethically sourced meats and seafood
- Seasonal regional ingredients
This creates a menu rooted in Kenyan terroir with international execution.
🍽️ The Cultiva Farm Kenya Dining Experience
🌿 Garden and Greenhouse Atmosphere
The dining space blends:
- Outdoor garden seating
- Greenhouse-style architecture
- Natural wood and earthy design elements
After hours of wildlife viewing in Nairobi National Park, this calm, botanical environment continues the nature immersion experience.
👩🍳 Culinary Style and Execution
Cultiva’s cuisine is:
- Refined but not overly formal
- Balanced and ingredient-forward
- Elegant in presentation
Expect seasonal salads, wood-fired proteins, carefully composed vegetarian dishes, and artisanal breads.
🥦 Vegetarian and Plant-Forward Excellence
If you are searching for:
Best vegetarian restaurant near Nairobi National Park
Cultiva is arguably the strongest option in Karen for plant-forward fine dining. Vegetarian dishes are not secondary — they are core menu highlights.
🍷 Wine, Beverages, and Pairings
Cultiva features:
- Thoughtfully curated wine list
- Fresh juices and botanical cocktails
- Seasonal beverage creativity
This makes it ideal for:
- Romantic lunches
- Client entertainment
- Relaxed post-safari celebrations
💰 How Much Does It Cost to Eat at Cultiva Farm Kenya?
Cultiva sits in Nairobi’s upper mid-range to premium casual dining bracket.
What to Expect:
- Lunch pricing comparable to Talisman
- More refined portions than Carnivore
- Below ultra-luxury rooftop experiences like INTI
For international safari travelers, the value relative to global fine dining is strong.
🌅Cultiva Farm Kenya Breakfast Menu
The Sunrise Menu at Cultiva Farm Kenya (served Wednesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM) is positioned as a refined suburban brunch rather than a casual café stop. It blends fresh juices, specialty coffee, artisan pastries, and substantial brunch plates — ideal for guests visiting Nairobi National Park in the morning and heading to Karen afterward.
🥤 Fresh Juices & Morning Refreshers (KES 390–665)
Classic juices such as orange, watermelon, and grapefruit are priced at KES 390, while nutrient-dense blends like green juice and red juice are KES 600. The coconut milk lemonade sits at the premium end at KES 665.
This section emphasizes freshness and farm-driven ingredients.
☕ Specialty Coffee & Tea (KES 200–690)
- Espresso single: KES 200
- Americano: KES 250
- Milk-based drinks (Latte, Flat White, Mocha): KES 350
- Cappuccino: KES 375
- Affogato: KES 690
Pricing aligns with high-quality specialty coffee houses in Nairobi’s Karen and Westlands neighborhoods.
🥐 Pastries (KES 295–420)
Artisan croissants dominate the pastry offering:
- Classic cultured butter croissant: KES 295
- Chocolate or frangipane options: KES 350
- Ham & cheese croissant: KES 420
These are competitively priced for premium bakery-style offerings.
🍳 Brunch Heroes (KES 650–1,500)
This is the core of the breakfast experience:
- French Toast, Shakshuka, Hash Brown Plate: KES 900
- Croque Monsieur & Wagyu Beef Croissant Roll: KES 1,100
- Bacon Benny & Mexican Benny: KES 1,200
- Butchers Benny (Wagyu steak strips): KES 1,500
- BLT Croix Roll: KES 650
The menu balances classic brunch staples with Wagyu-forward premium options.
💰 Average Breakfast Spend
- Light breakfast (coffee + pastry): KES 600–1,000
- Standard brunch (main + coffee): KES 1,200–1,700
- Premium Wagyu brunch + beverage: KES 1,800–2,200
All prices are inclusive of VAT, T. Levy, and service charge. Cultiva operates as a cashless venue.
Cultiva’s breakfast menu is polished, ingredient-driven, and positioned in the upper mid-range of Nairobi brunch dining. It is especially well-suited for safari guests seeking a relaxed, high-quality brunch within a short drive from Nairobi National Park.
All prices are inclusive of VAT, T. Levy, and service charge. Cultiva operates as a cashless business.
🍽️ Cultiva Farm Kenya Food Menu
The food menu at Cultiva Farm Kenya is structured around six core pillars: Snacks & Shareables, Farmer, Fisher, Hunter, Tacos, and Pizza Shop, reflecting a farm-driven, globally influenced dining philosophy.
🌿 What’s on the Menu?
1️⃣ Snacks & Shareables (KES 890–1,650)
Light starters such as garlic bread with aged cheese, loaded fries, smoked fish dip, wings, and pork wontons. Designed for sharing or beginning a relaxed lunch.
2️⃣ Farmer (KES 890–1,720)
Vegetable-forward dishes anchored in seasonal produce. Highlights include plantain & chayote, beetroot salad, tomato carpaccio, charred cauliflower, and BBQ cabbage. This section defines Cultiva’s farm-to-table identity.
3️⃣ Fisher (KES 1,590–2,750)
A strong seafood program featuring pickled sardine, tuna tostada, kingfish ceviche, tuna tiradito, crab har gow, octopus anticuchera, and grilled pescado. Influences lean Peruvian and coastal with premium pricing at the top end.
4️⃣ Hunter – Wagyu Beef Program (KES 2,150–2,590)
Focused and refined: beef shin ragu and the Wagyu burger. Positioned as premium meat offerings.
5️⃣ Tacos (KES 1,050 each)
Compact, flavor-driven options including seitan, grouper, Korean chicken, and smoked pork belly.
6️⃣ Pizza Shop (KES 1,990–2,100)
Wood-fired style pizzas with creative toppings such as duck jamon, Mr Miyagi, Greta Thunberg, Hell Boy, Margarita, and pepperoni.
💰 Pricing Overview
- Starters & farm plates: KES 890–1,700
- Seafood mains: KES 1,650–2,750
- Wagyu dishes: KES 2,150–2,590
- Tacos: KES 1,050
- Pizzas: KES 1,990–2,100
📊 Average Spend Per Person
- Light lunch: KES 1,500–2,000
- Full lunch or dinner with seafood or Wagyu: KES 2,500–3,500
- Premium dining with drinks: KES 3,500–5,000
All prices are inclusive of VAT, T. Levy, and service charge. Cultiva operates as a cashless restaurant.
🍸 Cultiva Farm Kenya Drinks Menu
The drinks menu at Cultiva Farm Kenya is structured into five core categories: Sharing Jugs, Farm Sodas, Mocktails, Beers, Signature Cocktails, and an extensive Wine List, reflecting both craft mixology and curated international sourcing.
🥂 Sharing – Kugawana (KES 3,950 per jug)
Two large-format cocktail jugs designed for group dining:
- Pamoja Jug – wine, spirits, citrus and sparkling blend
- Connection Jug – wine, tequila, ginger and citrus profile
Positioned for social tables and shared lunches.
🥤 Farm Sodas (KES 695)
House-made fermented-style sodas:
- Passion fruit
- Watermelon & basil
- Lemongrass
- Raspberry & peppermint
These are non-alcoholic and align with Cultiva’s farm-driven concept.
🍹 Mocktails (KES 510–895)
Premium non-alcoholic options including:
- Coconut Shake Lemonade
- Passion Virgin Mojito
- Virgin Bloody Mary
- Shakeratto and iced tea
Ideal for daytime dining and safari guests avoiding alcohol.
🍺 Beers (KES 500–690)
Local craft beers and international non-alcoholic options:
- 254 Brewing Co selections
- Heineken 0.0
- Mexican Michelada add-on
🍸 Signature Cocktails (KES 1,290–1,390)
A refined cocktail program featuring:
- Farm G & T
- Safari Sour
- Watermelon Paloma
- Cultiva Negroni
- Espresso Martini
- Piña Colada
- Low ABV options such as Maombi Sour and Apple Formula
Pricing sits within Nairobi’s premium suburban cocktail range.
🍷 Wines (Glass & Bottle Options)
Bubbles: KES 1,450 glass / KES 5,800+ bottle
White Wines: From ~KES 1,090 glass / KES 4,390 bottle
Rosé: From ~KES 1,180 glass / KES 4,720 bottle
Red Wines: From ~KES 1,175 glass / KES 4,700 bottle
Premium Champagne and reserve labels exceed KES 20,000 per bottle.
💰 Typical Spend Per Person
- Non-alcoholic beverages: KES 600–900
- Standard cocktail or wine glass: KES 1,300–1,500
- Premium wine bottle dining: KES 5,000–20,000+
All prices are inclusive of VAT, T. Levy and service charge. Cultiva operates as a cashless venue.
🌿 Cultiva Farm Kenya Reviews(Pros & Cons)
If you’re visiting Nairobi National Park in the morning, Cultiva Farm Kenya is one of the most recommended post-safari dining options in Karen. Here’s the distilled expert analysis based on cross-platform reviews.
✅ Why People Love Cultiva (Pros)
🌳 1. Exceptional Garden Setting
A greenhouse-style, farm-integrated space that feels calm, romantic, and distinctly Karen. Frequently described as “special occasion worthy.”
🥕 2. Genuine Farm-to-Table Identity
Menu structured around Farmer, Fisher, Hunter and Gatherer themes. Strong vegetarian and vegan options.
🍽️ 3. Refined, Chef-Driven Execution
Dishes consistently described as balanced, well-plated, and ingredient-forward rather than heavy or generic.
🍸 4. Strong Cocktail & Wine Program
Signature cocktails and curated wine list elevate it beyond typical garden restaurants.
📍 5. Strategic Location for Safari Itineraries
Close enough to Nairobi National Park to maintain the nature-day flow without entering city congestion.
⭐ 6. High Overall Satisfaction Ratings
Consistently strong ratings across Google Maps and Tripadvisor with a high review volume — a key signal of reliability.
⚠️ What to Know Before You Go (Cons)
⏳ 1. Service Can Vary at Peak Hours
Weekend brunch and Saturday evenings may feel slower or less attentive when full.
📅 2. Brunch Hours Are Fixed
Breakfast ends at noon — not an all-day brunch spot.
💸 3. Premium Pricing by Nairobi Standards
Perceived as good value by international visitors, but positioned at the upper mid-range locally.
🍽️ 4. Refined Portions
Not a nyama choma feast. Expect quality over quantity.
💳 5. Cashless Only
Card or digital payment required.
📲 6. Reservations Recommended
Walk-ins are risky on weekends.
🍴 What to Order (Expert Picks)
If coming from a morning safari:
- Light start: Farm salad or vegetable-forward Farmer dish
- Seafood highlight: Kingfish ceviche or tuna tostada
- Meat option: Wagyu burger or beef shin ragu
- Cocktail: Farm G&T or Safari Sour
- Brunch visit: Shakshuka or Bacon Benny
🕒 Best Time to Visit After Nairobi National Park
| Safari Type | Ideal Cultiva Slot |
|---|---|
| Early Morning Game Drive | 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM brunch |
| Half-Day Safari | 1:00 – 2:00 PM lunch |
| Full-Day Safari | 6:30 – 7:30 PM dinner |
Avoid peak Saturday 12–2 PM unless reserved.
Cultiva is not just a restaurant — it is a destination dining experience aligned with a Nairobi National Park safari day. It excels in atmosphere, produce-driven cuisine, and cocktails. The only consistent risk factor is service pressure during peak periods.
For guests prioritizing ambiance, quality ingredients, and a polished Karen setting, Cultiva is one of the strongest post-safari dining recommendations in Nairobi.
🦓 Why We Recommend Cultiva After a Nairobi National Park Safari
⏱️ Perfect Safari Flow
Half-Day Safari Itinerary
- 6:00 AM – Game drive in Nairobi National Park
- 11:30 AM – Exit park
- 12:00–12:30 PM – Arrive at Cultiva for lunch
This timing avoids traffic and maximizes wildlife viewing during peak activity hours.
🥂 Refined Alternative to Heavy Meat Restaurants
After a dusty morning safari, many guests prefer:
- Lighter seasonal dishes
- Fresh produce
- A relaxed garden setting
Cultiva provides that balance, especially compared to meat-centric options like Carnivore.
🔄 Cultiva vs Other Popular Safari Dining Options
Cultiva vs Carnivore
- Cultiva: refined, seasonal, sustainable
- Carnivore: high-energy, all-you-can-eat meat experience
- Best choice depends on whether you want elegance or celebration
Cultiva vs Big Five Restaurant
- Big Five: park-view veranda and hotel setting
- Cultiva: immersive farm setting and stronger sustainability identity
- Big Five suits sunset wildlife dining
- Cultiva suits refined post-safari lunch
Cultiva vs Talisman
- Talisman: broader global fusion menu
- Cultiva: stronger agricultural authenticity
- Both excellent; Cultiva edges ahead for farm identity
📅 Reservations and Practical Information
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially:
- Weekends
- Public holidays
- High tourist seasons
Walk-ins may face delays.
📅 How to Make a Reservation at Cultiva Farm Kenya
If you are planning to dine at Cultiva Farm Kenya after your Nairobi National Park safari, reservations are strongly recommended — especially on weekends and public holidays.
🔗 Step 1: Visit the Official Reservations Page
Go directly to the official booking page: https://cultivakenya.com/reservations/
This ensures you are reserving through the restaurant’s official system.
📝 Step 2: Complete the Reservation Form
On the Reservations page, you will see a simple booking form. Enter the required details, which typically include:
- Full name
- Contact number
- Email address
- Date of reservation
- Preferred time
- Number of guests
- Any special requests (dietary requirements, celebration notes, seating preferences)
Once submitted, you will receive confirmation based on availability.
Cultiva Farm Kenya – Reservation Terms & Conditions
- Large Group Bookings (7+ Guests):
For reservations of more than six guests, please contact the restaurant directly via phone or WhatsApp at +254 701 579 902. A refundable consumable deposit is required to secure large tables. - Reservation Holding Policy:
Tables are held for 30 minutes from your confirmed booking time. After this grace period, the table may be released. If you are running late or need to cancel, kindly notify the team by phone or WhatsApp as soon as possible. - Closing Times:
The kitchen closes at 9:30 PM and the bar closes at 10:00 PM. Guests are encouraged to arrive in good time to fully enjoy the dining experience.
POFU ROAD, KAREN, NAIROBI, KENYA
+254 701 579 902
management@cultivakenya.org
Tuesdays
12pm – 10pm
Last order for food: 9:30pm
Last order for drinks: 10:00pm
Wednesdays – Sundays
8am – 10pm
Last order for food: 9:30pm
Last order for drinks: 10:00pm
⏰ Helpful Booking Tips
- Book at least 2–3 days in advance for weekend brunch or dinner.
- For Saturday lunch (12:00–2:00 PM), reserve earlier in the week.
- If combining with a Nairobi National Park morning safari, select a time between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM for optimal flow.
- Mention special occasions in the notes section if celebrating.
💳 Important Note
Cultiva operates as a cashless venue, so ensure you have card or digital payment available when dining.
🕒 Opening Hours and Best Time to Visit
Best time after safari:
- 12:00–1:30 PM lunch window
Evenings:
- Ideal for romantic dinners
- Book veranda or garden seating in advance
👗 Dress Code
Smart casual is appropriate.
Safari attire transitions easily into lunch here.
🎉 Is Cultiva Good for Special Occasions?
Yes.
Cultiva is ideal for:
- Romantic dinners
- Corporate lunches
- Small celebrations
- Private event bookings
It is less suited for:
- Large tour bus groups
- Extremely tight airport connections
🌍 Why Cultiva Ranks Among the Best Restaurants in Karen
Searches like:
Best restaurant in Karen Nairobi
Farm to table restaurant Nairobi
Romantic restaurant near Nairobi National Park
Often place Cultiva among top recommendations due to:
- Consistent ingredient quality
- Distinctive setting
- Strong culinary execution
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cultiva Farm Kenya
How far is Cultiva from Nairobi National Park?
Approximately 4.9 km, about 13 minutes from the Main Gate via Bogani East Road and Magadi Road C58.
Does Cultiva require reservations?
Yes, especially on weekends and peak tourist seasons.
Is Cultiva vegetarian-friendly?
Yes. It is one of the best plant-forward restaurants in Karen.
Is Cultiva considered fine dining?
It is refined casual fine dining — sophisticated but relaxed.
🏆 Final Expert Verdict
If you are visiting Nairobi National Park, Cultiva Farm Kenya is our top-recommended restaurant for a refined, sustainable, and beautifully executed farm-to-table dining experience.
It complements the wildlife narrative of the park:
- Nature-focused
- Environmentally conscious
- Rooted in land and seasonality
For safari guests seeking more than just a meal — but an extension of the Nairobi nature experience — Cultiva Farm Kenya is the most balanced and strategic choice in Karen.
🌿 Cultiva Farm Kenya – Frequently Asked Questions (Expert Guide)
❓ Where exactly is Cultiva Farm Kenya located?
Cultiva is located in the Karen suburb of Nairobi, in a semi-rural garden setting off Bogani East Road. It is approximately 4.9 km (about 13 minutes) from the Main Gate of Nairobi National Park via Magadi Road C58.
❓ Is Cultiva Farm Kenya suitable for special occasions?
Yes. Cultiva is widely considered one of Nairobi’s best venues for birthdays, anniversaries, romantic dinners, and small celebrations due to its greenhouse aesthetic, landscaped farm environment, and elevated dining experience.
❓ Does Cultiva grow its own produce?
Yes. Cultiva operates with a strong farm-to-table philosophy. Much of the produce used in the kitchen is sourced directly from its own farm operations or trusted local suppliers, emphasizing seasonal and heirloom ingredients.
❓ Is Cultiva child-friendly?
Yes, but it is better suited for well-supervised children. The garden environment is relaxed and spacious, but the menu and atmosphere are refined rather than casual fast-food oriented.
❓ Does Cultiva accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes. Cultiva offers strong vegetarian and vegan options and can accommodate gluten-free and other dietary requirements when communicated in advance during reservation.
❓ Is there a dress code at Cultiva?
There is no strict formal dress code, but the atmosphere is upscale casual. Smart casual attire is recommended, particularly for dinner.
❓ Do you need to reserve in advance?
Yes. Reservations are highly recommended, especially:
- Weekend brunch (Saturday and Sunday)
- Friday and Saturday evenings
- Public holidays
Walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability but are not guaranteed.
❓ Does Cultiva offer private dining or event hosting?
Yes. Cultiva hosts private events, small corporate gatherings, and curated dining experiences. Advance coordination through the Events or Reservations section of their website is required.
❓ Is parking available?
Yes. On-site parking is available within the property. It is generally secure and sufficient for standard dining volumes.
❓ Is Cultiva suitable for business meetings?
Yes. It is appropriate for informal business lunches or client meetings, particularly during weekday lunch hours when it is quieter.
❓ What is the average dining duration?
- Brunch: 1–1.5 hours
- Lunch: 1.5–2 hours
- Dinner: 2+ hours
Cultiva is designed for relaxed dining rather than quick turnover.
❓ Does Cultiva accept cash?
No. Cultiva operates as a cashless venue, accepting card and digital payment methods only.
❓ What are the busiest days and times?
Peak periods include:
- Saturday 12:00–2:30 PM (brunch/lunch)
- Friday and Saturday evenings
- Public holidays
Weekday lunches are generally calmer.
❓ Is Cultiva accessible for guests with mobility challenges?
The property is largely ground-level garden terrain. While generally accessible, guests with mobility limitations should inform the restaurant in advance to ensure appropriate seating arrangements.
❓ Is Cultiva pet-friendly?
Pets are not typically permitted within the dining areas. It is advisable to confirm directly with the restaurant for current policy.
❓ Does Cultiva offer takeaway or delivery?
Cultiva primarily focuses on in-restaurant dining. Delivery options may vary and should be confirmed directly.
❓ What makes Cultiva different from other Karen restaurants?
Key differentiators:
- Structured Farmer/Fisher/Hunter menu architecture
- Strong farm-to-table authenticity
- Elevated greenhouse aesthetic
- Refined cocktail and wine program
It positions itself between casual garden cafés and high-end hotel dining.
❓ Is Cultiva considered fine dining?
Cultiva is best described as refined farm-to-table dining or upper mid-range contemporary dining. It is not ultra-formal fine dining but delivers high culinary standards.
❓ How long after a Nairobi National Park safari should you book your table?
For a typical 6:00 AM park entry:
- Book Cultiva between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM
This allows sufficient wildlife viewing time without rushing.
❓ Is Cultiva worth visiting if you are only in Nairobi for one day?
Yes. Many visitors consider it one of the strongest standalone dining experiences in Nairobi, especially when combined with a Nairobi National Park safari.