Date nights can be hard to plan—especially when you’re balancing marriage and the never-ending energy of toddlers. My husband and I do our best to stay intentional about nurturing both, even if that means squeezing in spontaneous outings now and then. Like any plant, a relationship thrives only when it’s watered regularly.
So on a quiet Friday evening, my husband surprised me with a spontaneous date in Kilimani. He sent me the location, and I was instantly curious—I’d never heard of the restaurant before. I love discovering new spots, so I got ready after making sure the kids were fed and nearly ready for bed, then hopped into an Uber and arrived at around 9 PM.
First Impressions
From the outside, Caffe’ Concerto didn’t look like much. No glowing signboard, no trendy decor—just a lone soldier seated by the entrance. For a moment, I wondered if I was overdressed. But I decided to go with the flow.
Walking in, I was pleasantly surprised. The restaurant was buzzing—mostly with foreigners—and the ambiance immediately won me over. My husband, already seated, greeted me with a warm smile and explained he had originally planned a different spot but changed his mind because it felt less romantic.
Caffe’ Concerto had all the right vibes (a hidden romantic gem in kilimani) . Dim, warm lighting created an intimate atmosphere, and soft background music complemented the cozy, rustic decor. The setting felt more like a little Italian nook tucked away in Nairobi—perfect for conversation and connection, whether you’re on a date, dining with family, or catching up with friends.
The Dining Experience
Our waiter was quick and attentive. My husband ordered the chicken and mushroom pizza (KES 1,450), while I chose the Pappardelle Carbonara (KES 1,250)—you can rarely go wrong with pasta at an Italian place. We also ordered a bottle of wine, which was quite reasonably priced, with some options even on special offer.
The service was impressive despite the restaurant being full. My pasta was absolutely delicious—rich, creamy, and perfectly cooked. On the other hand, I wasn’t a fan of the mushroom chicken pizza. The smell and texture of the mushrooms put me off after one bite, though my husband thoroughly enjoyed it. Note: if you’re not into mushrooms, skip this one! I’ll definitely explore a different pizza on my next visit.
The Not-So-Great
The only downside for me was the shared unisex washroom. While this might not be an issue for everyone, I personally prefer separate restrooms—it often feels cleaner and more comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Caffe’ Concerto is a wonderful spot if you’re looking for romantic, cozy vibes and authentic Italian dishes in Nairobi. It may not look like much from the outside, but it’s a delightful surprise once you’re in. For a meal and a drink, plan for a minimum of KES 2,000 per person.
Would I go back? Absolutely—for the pasta, the wine, and the warm, intimate atmosphere. If you’re looking to keep the spark alive with a simple but special night out, this hidden gem is worth the visit.
