Lamu House Restaurant
Know Before You Go
Quick IntelEstimated Cost
Mid-to-high range; expect to pay significantly more than typical island rates for both food and pool access.
Best For
Travelers prioritizing clean, modern amenities and a quiet pool environment over traditional Swahili culinary authenticity.
Access & Logistics
Located in Lamu; accessible by walking through the town alleys. M-Pesa is widely accepted, but always carry cash for smaller local vendors.
Operating Hours
Daily 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Editor's Review
Lamu House Restaurant offers a polished, Western-style oasis tucked away in the historic heart of Lamu. While it provides a clean and comfortable environment, visitors should be aware that it operates at a premium price point compared to the surrounding local establishments, and the menu leans heavily toward a mix of international and fusion dishes rather than traditional coastal cuisine.
If you find the pricing here prohibitive or the menu lacking local zest, take a short walk into the heart of Shela or Lamu Old Town where you can find authentic Swahili street food, such as fresh bhajias or vitumbua, for a fraction of the cost while supporting local vendors.
The Cost: Expect to pay higher-than-average island prices for meals, with main courses often exceeding KSH 2,000. Pool access fees are additional and fluctuate based on management policy, so inquire at the front desk upon arrival.
The Experience: Visiting Lamu House is a relaxed affair. The terrain is typical of Lamu—sandy, narrow alleyways leading to a well-maintained, paved terrace. The atmosphere is calm and intended for lounging, making it better suited for a slow afternoon by the pool than a high-energy adventure.
What you can get: The venue offers a refined swimming pool, a clean dining terrace, and a menu featuring a blend of European-style burgers, salads, and local fish dishes. It is a reliable spot for those seeking a quiet, hygienic environment to recharge away from the bustling town crowds.
Ultimately, Lamu House is best suited for visitors who value comfort and modern facilities above all else. While the food quality has been a point of contention among travelers, the serene atmosphere and pool make it a functional, if pricey, retreat on the island.
More Details
Explorer Ken's Advice
"The swimming pool is the standout feature here, offering a clean and refreshing escape from the island heat that is hard to find elsewhere."
Things to Consider
Service is consistently reported as slow, and food quality is inconsistent with premium pricing, leading many locals to prefer more authentic eateries in Old Town.
Feedback
Top Google Reviews
Rudy GT
We ate at Lamu house 3 times and also used the pool. Such an awesome atmosphere. The pool feels amazingly nice and good for a cool down. Food was amazing, staff are very friendly.. They even filled my water bottle with ice. Thank you! Highly recommend
Ingy
Food is good and tasty, it could use a bit more flavor (maybe is just me, I like strong flavors). Great staff. Definitely more pricey than othe places but also is cleaner, and some stuff are better quality than other places; Aldo the menu is local and european/western items.
Lebogang Mashego
Disappointing experience with mediocre food at inflated prices. Starters included a piping hot microwaved bread roll and a stale, inedible breadstick. The seafood salad tasted like it came straight from a frozen bag, and the burger patty was a mushy mess that disintegrated under a knife. I left with a stomach ache and felt unwell the following day; which is something I haven’t experienced after over a week of meals on the island. The service is on the slow side but friendly. Overall, I would not recommend. Even at half the price, the quality wouldn’t justify a return. There are far better dining options nearby in both Old Town and Shela.
Keisha Schahaff
Everything is just perfect. The most relaxing experience and the staff are truly wonderful and so helpful. I felt well taken care off and can’t wait to come again. Thank you.
Hanne
Not recommended!!! Better food can be found in other establishments nearby. Nice clean terrasse. But the food is expensive for what is in the plates. The seafood pasta was totally tasteless… The seafood was clearly coming from a bag of frozen seafood imported from another country. A real pity because the seafood in front of the restaurant has plenty fish and seafood. I give 2 stars for the service because the waiter didn’t tell us the truth with regards to if the seafood used in the pasta was going to be fresh… otherwise the staff are friendly and attentive.
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