Ain Korean Restaurant — Restaurant in Nairobi

Honestly tried to love this place but couldn’t due to the really awful service and the very subpar meat quality. Maybe a B+ effort for Kenya standards, but if you’re looking for authentic Korean bbq and have had it before, I give it a D- at best.

Ordered galbi (really, the most standard meat for Korean bbq), bibimbap, and pajeon. The bibimbap was good, but most of the veggies seemed to be just scoops of the banchan side dishes added into the bowl of rice. The pajeon had clearly frozen seafood mix dropped in and was too egg-y but otherwise fine, I guess, the accompanying sauce was spot on. But the really awful dish was what we were looking forward to most - the galbi was quite literally about 8 pieces of very fatty, substandard meat that was NOT short rib. See photo. We couldn’t eat half of it because it was pure fat. And I’m not sure why, but the server brought it out cooked, despite the fact that the whole point of Korean bbq is cooking it on the grill at our table. Did not ask us our preference and just brought out the cooked meat on a plate without anything else… we had to ask for rice/lettuce/sauces, which came 10 minutes late while the meat sat and got cold. And the rice was soggy/overcooked. :(

Add to this insult was the ridiculously slow service in general. We came at 3pm on a Saturday, with maybe two other tables occupied. Had to repeat my orders multiple times, and finally gave up at the end ordering more banchan and asking for a third time for more gochujang. Just paid and left.

The setting is very serene and charming, and clearly someone had set up enough instruction for the staff to deliver some reasonably tasty bites. But overall a disappointment for us when we had been craving authentic Korean food after living in Kenya last couple of years. Maybe it was our fault for having higher expectations than we ought to have… it is still Kenya...

First of all, let me say that this guest house/restaurant is NOT located on Argwings Kodhek Close. It's located on the road on the left immediately after the KFC/petrol station if you're coming from the Argwings Kodhek/Woodlands Rd roundabout.

I had really high hopes for this restaurant after reading the reviews, and I'm not sure what went wrong to leave me very disappointed.

I entered the premises, which is a guest house by the way, so you quite literally have to walk through common spaces to get to the seating area of the restaurant. It was a bit awkward, as no one was around to guide me. I was the only customer there, not sure if it's because of Covid or what, but being the only customer led to a lax in service. After I was served my meal, the waitress disappeared for a long time, and I had no way of trying to get any service or further help, so I just had to wait until she decided that I might need assistance.

My meal was just okay - I ordered tteok-bokki but asked them to make it non-spicy. It was filling, with a heavy dose of soup, but the soup was overly sweet that I couldn't even attempt at finishing it. The side dishes weren't very fresh except for the kimchi. I say this because later that day, my stomach was aching, and I knew it was something from the restaurant.

I love Korean food and am always excited when there's a restaurant in Nairobi that offers authentic Korean food, but this place didn't do it for me. Don't think I'll come back again. The prices were a bit high. I guess if you're in a group it might be better for your wallet.

Ample seating and many options on the...

From the moment we stepped into Ain Korean Restaurant, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality that promised a delightful dining experience.

The service was exceptional. The staff, led by the incredibly friendly owner, goes above and beyond to ensure every guest feels welcomed and cared for. Their attentiveness and genuine kindness add a special touch to the dining experience that is hard to find elsewhere.

The food was delicious! Each dish we ordered was a testament to the freshness and quality of the ingredients used. The flavors were authentic, rich, and perfectly balanced, transporting us to the heart of Korea with every bite. The portions are generous, ensuring you leave satisfied and with a smile on your face.

But what truly sets Ain Korean Restaurant apart is the atmosphere. There's a calming and relaxing vibe that envelops you as you dine, making it not just a meal, but a truly enjoyable escape from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi.

In a city that's a melting pot of cuisines, Ain Korean Restaurant stands out for its authentic Korean dishes, exceptional service, and the heartwarming hospitality of its owner. I cannot recommend this place enough. Whether you're a lover of Korean cuisine or curious to try something new, this restaurant is a must-visit. Thank you, Ain Korean Restaurant, for consistently providing an unforgettable...