Nairobi, Kenya's capital city, sits at an elevation that gives it a pleasant climate year-round. The city has grown into a hub for arts and culture in East Africa, with many hidden gems waiting to be found by those willing to look beyond the obvious tourist spots. Wood Avenue in Kilimani is one of those areas where Nairobi shows its more contemporary side. It's a place where the city's creative energy finds expression through various venues.

Key highlights:

- Rooftop cinema and bar with panoramic city views
- Art house cinema featuring independent African films
- Fresh, locally-sourced menu with international influences

PROFILE

Unseen Nairobi is exactly what its name suggests - a hidden gem tucked away on the 12th floor of Wood Avenue Plaza. This unique venue combines a rooftop bar, restaurant,and art house cinema in one space. The establishment opened with a mission to make the previously unseen seen. They accomplish this by showing local and international films to new audiences in Kenya. They also provide a platform for emerging East African artists to reach global audiences. This cultural focus sets Unseen apart from typical restaurants and bars in the city. The venue has become a favorite among both locals and tourists seeking something off the beaten path. It attracts a diverse crowd of film enthusiasts, foodies,and those looking for a relaxed atmosphere with great views.

AMBIENCE

The rooftop setting offers breathtaking panoramic views of Nairobi. On clear days, you can even see the Aberdare hills in the distance. The outdoor terrace has a garden-style setup that creates a peaceful retreat from the city bustle below. It's an open-air space that allows guests to enjoy Nairobi's pleasant weather. Inside, the venue houses an intimate screening room designed for film showings. The cinema has been described as beautifully fitted out and can seat up to 80 people. The overall atmosphere strikes a balance between artistic and laid-back. It's the kind of place where you can work during the day, enjoy a sunset drink, or catch an independent film in the evening.

MUST-TRY

The Korean Fried Chicken comes highly recommended by regular patrons. It's known for being flavorful and satisfying. The Pork Bao Buns are another standout item that visitors frequently praise. These soft, fluffy buns filled with savory pork make for a perfect appetizer or light meal. For breakfast lovers, the Vanilla French Toast served with seasonal fruits and Madagascan vanilla yogurt is a must-try. It's available until 4 PM, making it perfect for late risers. The cocktail menu offers creative options worth exploring. Their homemade cordials and fresh juices make for refreshing non-alcoholic alternatives.

FOOD

The menu at Unseen Nairobi features a carefully curated selection of dishes with Asian-inspired influences. Everything is prepared daily on-site, including sauces and marinades. They prioritize using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Organic fruits and vegetables are used whenever possible, and all meats are Halal. The kitchen emphasizes sustainability in its approach to food. Menu items change regularly to reflect seasonal availability. Breakfast options include smoothie bowls and avocado toast. For lunch and dinner, expect items like kimchi grilled cheese sandwiches and potato croquettes. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, though somewhat limited. They do offer vegan milk alternatives for coffee drinks.

SERVICE

Staff at Unseen Nairobi are generally described as friendly and accommodating. They create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Service can sometimes be on the slower side, particularly during busy periods. This is worth keeping in mind if you're in a hurry. The venue operates on a cashless payment system. They accept M-Pesa mobile payments and credit/debit cards. They have a communal tipping policy where all tips are shared equally among front-of-house and kitchen teams. Management does not take any percentage of the tips given.

PRICING

Prices at Unseen Nairobi are considered moderate to high by local standards. Some reviewers describe them as having "European prices." Breakfast items range from 750 KSH for items like Vanilla French Toast to 950 KSH for more substantial options. Main dishes generally fall between 1000-1500 KSH. Drinks are reasonably priced, with fresh juices starting at 250 KSH and coffee drinks around 300 KSH. Cocktails are available at typical Nairobi premium venue prices. The cinema experience offers good value, with tickets often including extras like a cocktail and popcorn. The venue can also be hired for private screenings at what's described as a "decent cost."

SUMMARY

Unseen Nairobi offers a unique combination of culinary and cultural experiences that's rare to find in one venue. Its rooftop location provides a peaceful escape from the city while still offering stunning views of it. The food quality is generally high, with fresh ingredients and careful preparation evident in most dishes. While service can be inconsistent, the overall atmosphere makes up for any minor shortcomings. For those looking to experience a different side of Nairobi's food and entertainment scene, Unseen provides exactly that - a chance to discover something previously unseen. It's particularly well-suited for casual dates, creative meetups, or solo visits. Whether you come for the food, the films, or simply the view, Unseen Nairobi delivers an experience that feels both contemporary and distinctly Kenyan. It represents the kind of creative, multifaceted venue that's helping to shape Nairobi's evolving cultural landscape.

FAQs

What kind of films does Unseen Nairobi show?

Unseen Nairobi specializes in showing independent African films and international art house cinema. They have regular screenings most evenings at 7 PM and also host special film events like their "Unseen Gems" series where audiences can discover overlooked cinematic treasures.

Can I rent the cinema for a private screening?

Yes, the cinema at Unseen Nairobi is available for private hire. The intimate screening room can seat up to 80 people and has been described as beautifully designed. Contact them directly for pricing and availability information.

Is Unseen Nairobi suitable for working remotely?

Many patrons use Unseen Nairobi as a remote working space, especially during daytime hours. The venue offers free Wi-Fi and a relaxed atmosphere that's conducive to working. The rooftop setting is particularly pleasant on sunny days, providing a nice change of scenery for digital nomads and remote workers.