I have rarely been so impressed overall with a place as I have with Java Coffee House, no matter which one I have been to in Nairobi. Great atmosphere, an impressive variety of good-tasting food, excellent coffee, and fantastic customer service! My wife and I once made the mistake of arriving during the extremely busy lunch hour at the Yaya Centre Java Coffee House. No tables were available but the waitresses arranged for us to just sit for a few minutes at a table occupied by another client who agreed to let us use a couple of empty chairs. Within a short period, we had our own comfortable booth and enjoyed another good meal. Highest recommendations!

Given that stopping at a cafe for a coffee and pastry can be a bit of a gamble this place is reasonably safe. The airport branch has excellent service too!

Africa in general, and Nairobi in particular, can hardly be described as a hotbed of culinary delights. The Java House coffee shop and restaurant chain is reliable and consistent, without being outstanding. The menu is mostly western, with breakfast, salads, burgers, steaks, and even a bit of faux Mexican. Tasty enough, but hardly gourmet fare. As other reviewers have noted, it is consistent -- order a dish in any of the outlets and it will be pretty much the same as elsewhere. Some -- but not all -- offer free wi-fi hot spots, no log-in required. The baristas seem to be well trained, and Java also sells a range of packaged Kenyan coffees and teas. If my review sounds a little lukewarm, don't let it put you off ... it's safe, it's pleasant, and you won't feel hungry when you leave.

Java have numerous outlets across Nairobi and we've tried a few. The Upper Hill Java (near CBA and Springs) is great and offers a good range of food and drink. Out of peak hours service is always swift and friendly. Their healthy wraps are tasty and the shakes and Arnold Palmer are superb.