A sophisticated gastropub in Kilimani serving elevated pub food and craft cocktails in a stylish industrial-chic setting. Popular with Nairobi's young professionals for after-work drinks and casual fine dining.
The Merchant is a gastropub on Argwings Kodhek Road in the Kilimani neighbourhood of Nairobi, Kenya. It occupies the space between a bar and a fine dining restaurant, offering elevated pub cooking and a craft cocktail programme in a stylish, industrial-chic interior. It is especially popular with Nairobi's young professionals, who use it for after-work drinks as well as for relaxed dinners.
The kitchen focuses on well-executed international comfort food. The Dry-aged Ribeye Steak (about $38) is the most expensive and most talked-about dish, offering a premium cut aged for flavour. Burrata with Heirloom Tomatoes (about $14) works as a fresh starter or a shared plate, and Sticky Toffee Pudding (about $9) is a British pub dessert favourite. The menu mixes small plates for sharing with larger mains, which suits the social, drink-oriented character of the venue.
The dining room features exposed industrial elements, warm lighting and a lively bar, creating an atmosphere that is stylish, sociable and music-forward in the evenings. Noise levels rise at weekends, particularly later at night, so quieter conversation is easier at lunch or early in the evening. Dress is smart-casual.
The cocktail programme is a highlight, and the venue is regarded as having one of the better drinks lists in Kilimani, alongside wines, beers and spirits. At the $$$ price level, the cost reflects premium ingredients and the cocktail menu.
Hours are listed as 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM daily, giving a long service window. Reservations are recommended, particularly for Friday and Saturday evenings and for groups. Booking a day or two ahead is sensible. Because the venue stays open late and Kilimani can be busy at night, visitors should arrange taxi or ride-hailing transport in advance for the return journey.
| Price | $$$ |
|---|---|
| Hours | 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM daily |
| Reservations | Recommended |
| Address | Argwings Kodhek Road, Kilimani, Nairobi |
Signature dishes
- Dry-aged Ribeye Steak — $38
- Burrata with Heirloom Tomatoes — $14
- Sticky Toffee Pudding — $9
Good to know
- Known for
- Elevated gastropub food with excellent cocktail programme
Location
Argwings Kodhek Road, Kilimani, Nairobi
-1.2924, 36.7880 View on map
Highlights
- Elevated gastropub cooking in an industrial-chic Kilimani setting
- Dry-aged Ribeye Steak, Burrata with Heirloom Tomatoes, Sticky Toffee Pudding
- Craft cocktail programme and lively bar
- Open daily from noon until midnight
Tips for visiting
- Reserve a day or two ahead for Friday and Saturday evenings.
- Visit at lunch or early evening for a quieter dining experience.
- Share small plates and a steak to sample more of the menu.
- Ask the bar team for a cocktail recommendation to suit the meal.
- Arrange a taxi or ride-hailing pickup for late-night returns.
When to visit
Lunch and early evening are calmer, while Friday and Saturday nights are lively and busy.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not confirmed; visitors with mobility needs should check access with the venue before visiting.
Frequently asked questions
Where is The Merchant?
It is on Argwings Kodhek Road in Kilimani, Nairobi, Kenya.
What kind of venue is it?
It is a gastropub serving elevated pub food and craft cocktails.
Is it open late?
It is listed as open until midnight daily.
Should I reserve?
Reservations are recommended, particularly at weekends and for groups.