Kenya's coastal food scene is one of the most exciting in East Africa. Swahili culinary traditions blend with Indian, Arabic and Portuguese influences to create flavours you will not find anywhere else.
Where to start
If you are new to coastal Kenyan cuisine, start with mshikaki — tender marinated beef skewers grilled over charcoal. You will find them at almost every roadside stall from Kilifi to Malindi.
Biryani and pilau
No coastal food guide is complete without biryani — fragrant spiced rice layered with slow-cooked meat. Mtwapa and Kilifi town both have legendary spots. Some Doodle merchants now deliver biryani straight to your door.
Mahamri and chai
Sweet, cardamom-spiced dough pillows deep-fried to golden perfection. Best eaten hot with a cup of spiced chai.
Chapati and beans
The everyday lunch for thousands of Kenyans. Order a stack of freshly made chapati with a bowl of stewed kidney beans. Simple, filling and affordable.
Ordering coastal food on Doodle
Many of the coast's favourite food vendors have joined Doodle. Search for "coastal food" in the app and discover vendors near you — from samosa sellers to biryani specialists.
Whether you want a quick lunch at your desk or a late-night mshikaki run, Doodle brings the coast's best food to your door.