Shanzu, a stunning beachside destination in Mombasa, is best known for its white sandy beaches, luxury resorts, and Swahili seafood delights. But if you’re a vegan or vegetarian, you might wonder where to find delicious plant-based meals while soaking in the coastal vibes.
The good news? Shanzu is home to several great spots that cater to vegan and vegetarian diets, serving everything from traditional Swahili plant-based dishes to international vegan-friendly cuisines.
Here’s a guide to the best vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Shanzu!
1. Jahazi Coffee House ☕🍛
Why You’ll Love It
✅ A hidden gem for Swahili vegan dishes.
✅ Cozy, traditional decor with a peaceful ambiance.
✅ Serves plant-based coconut curries, chapati, and spiced teas.
📍 Location: Old Town, a short drive from Shanzu
🌱 Must-Try Dish: Mbaazi wa Nazi – Slow-cooked pigeon peas in rich coconut sauce, served with chapati.
🥤 Vegan-Friendly Drink: Spiced Swahili ginger tea.
🎵 Vibe: Authentic, cultural, and perfect for a relaxed afternoon meal.
👉 Best For: A traditional Swahili vegan meal in a laid-back setting.
2. Punda Milia Paradise 🥗🍉
Why You’ll Love It
✅ Fully vegetarian & vegan-friendly menu!
✅ Focus on organic, fresh, and locally sourced ingredients.
✅ Wide variety of salads, soups, smoothies, and plant-based desserts.
📍 Location: Serena Road, Shanzu
🌱 Must-Try Dish: Vegan Ugali Plate – A nutritious mix of ugali (maize meal), sautéed sukuma wiki (kale), and flavorful coconut beans.
🥤 Vegan-Friendly Drink: Fresh passion fruit juice.
🎵 Vibe: Chilled, earthy atmosphere with garden seating.
👉 Best For: A healthy and nutritious vegan meal near the beach.
3. Café Mocha – Nyali ☕🥙
Why You’ll Love It
✅ Great vegetarian and vegan breakfast options.
✅ Serves plant-based burgers, falafel wraps, and fresh smoothies.
✅ Relaxed coffee house setting with indoor and outdoor seating.
📍 Location: City Mall, Nyali (15-minute drive from Shanzu)
🌱 Must-Try Dish: Falafel Wrap with Tahini Sauce – A Mediterranean-inspired delight.
🥤 Vegan-Friendly Drink: Coconut latte with almond milk.
🎵 Vibe: Cozy, modern, and great for casual dining or work sessions.
👉 Best For: A vegan-friendly breakfast, brunch, or coffee break.
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4. La Marina Restaurant & Bar ⛵🥑
Why You’ll Love It
✅ Beautiful seaside setting on Mtwapa Creek.
✅ Offers fresh plant-based meals with a focus on local ingredients.
✅ Perfect for sunset dining with a relaxing view.
📍 Location: Mtwapa Creek, near Shanzu
🌱 Must-Try Dish: Grilled Vegetable Platter – A delicious mix of locally grown veggies with coconut-infused rice.
🥤 Vegan-Friendly Drink: Fresh coconut water straight from the shell!
🎵 Vibe: Romantic, breezy, and ideal for dinner with a view.
👉 Best For: A chilled, plant-based dinner with oceanfront vibes.
5. Govinda’s Vegetarian Restaurant 🥘🌿
Why You’ll Love It
✅ 100% vegetarian & mostly vegan menu.
✅ Authentic Indian cuisine with flavorful curries, dals, and breads.
✅ Located inside the ISKCON Temple, offering a peaceful environment.
📍 Location: Mombasa Road (20-minute drive from Shanzu)
🌱 Must-Try Dish: Paneer Butter Masala with Garlic Naan (vegetarian) OR Chickpea Chana Masala with Rice (vegan).
🥤 Vegan-Friendly Drink: Masala Chai with Soy Milk.
🎵 Vibe: Serene, spiritual, and ideal for Indian vegetarian food lovers.
👉 Best For: A flavor-packed vegetarian or vegan Indian meal.
6. Yul’s Restaurant & Beach Bar 🏖️🥥
Why You’ll Love It
✅ Directly on Bamburi Beach, offering a tropical dining experience.
✅ Serves vegetarian-friendly pastas, salads, and fresh juices.
✅ Great for beach lovers who want a healthy meal with an ocean view.
📍 Location: Bamburi Beach (10 minutes from Shanzu)
🌱 Must-Try Dish: Vegan Avocado Salad – A mix of local greens, ripe avocados, and citrus dressing.
🥤 Vegan-Friendly Drink: Watermelon & Mint Juice.
🎵 Vibe: Relaxed, airy, and perfect for an afternoon meal by the ocean.
👉 Best For: A healthy, plant-based lunch with a beachfront view.
Final Thoughts: Eating Vegan & Vegetarian in Shanzu
From Swahili coconut dishes to fresh organic salads and flavorful Indian curries, Shanzu offers plenty of great plant-based dining options. Whether you’re looking for a local experience, an upscale dinner, or a casual beachside meal, there’s something for every vegan and vegetarian traveler.
For the ultimate beach getaway, book your stay at Shanzu Beachfront Apartments Ltd—a perfect spot to relax and enjoy all that Shanzu has to offer! 🌴☀️
📞 Call: +254733993375 / +254735140150 for more information
📍 Location: Pangoni Road, Off Serena Road, Eden Beach, Shanzu, Mombasa
🔗 Visit: www.shanzubeachfront.com
🌿🍽️ Karibu Shanzu, where plant-based dining meets coastal paradise!
