Hidden above the city’s restless energy, Nairobi’s newest rooftop gem, Jabu, invites you to experience happiness in its purest form.
Derived from Afrikaans, ‘Jabu‘ translates to ‘be happy,’ and true to its name, it is a space designed not just for indulgence but for connection.
Perched atop Somerset Westview, it promises more than breathtaking views—it promises moments. Jabu is elegance above the city where every evening unfolds in a space made for savoring.
Redefining the Rooftop Experience
Jabu breaks away from the traditional rooftop formula. There’s no booming DJ or chaotic dance floor. Instead, the bar itself becomes the stage.
Upon entrance, the bar at the center of the room is what attracts you to a space with warm lights and a cosy vibe.
“The people at the bar are the ones who make the space,” explains Ashwin Vijayasekar, General Manager of Somerset Westview Nairobi. His vision for Jabu is clear: a communal haven where conversations take the spotlight, and the ambiance is curated by the diverse souls who gather there.
Different faces, different stories—all woven together over crafted cocktails and curated dishes.

A Private Tasting Experience.
I had the pleasure of being invited for a private tasting ahead of the restaurant’s official opening on Thursday, May 15th. The experience was both exclusive and enlightening, offering a preview of what Jabu plans to bring to Nairobi’s culinary scene.
I started with the Tomato Basil Embrace, a velvety tomato soup brightened with fresh basil and served with crusty bread. Its sweet and spicy blend was perfect—not too overpowering for those who shy away from chili but just enough to warm the soul.

For the main course, I opted for the Slow Braised Elegance—melt-in-your-mouth beef slow-cooked in a rich red wine sauce, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and velvety creamed spinach. It was hearty, flavorful, and truly indulgent.
Culinary Craftsmanship by Chef Dennis Chuili
Culinary artistry also finds its home at Jabu, led by Chef Dennis. His curated menu is a journey through flavors, each dish crafted to elevate the rooftop experience.
During a chit-chat with him I was curious to what his personal favorites on the menu are, and they include the Garden Harmony Salad, a celebration of seasonal greens that sets the stage for the Hearty Rustic Stew—a soup that warms you from the inside out. The Grilled Tawook Temptation appetizer is perfectly marinated, leading up to the main course, Ocean’s Bounty, which delivers fresh seafood elegance. To close, the Sweet Simolina dessert is a simple yet luxurious indulgence that leaves a lasting impression.

Weatherproofed Comfort and Seamless Access
Weatherproofed for comfort, Jabu is designed to welcome guests in any season. It’s a concept that has already thrived in Morocco, proving its adaptability across borders. Here in Nairobi, Jabu is more than a bar; it’s a statement.
An external elevator—strategically placed to respect the privacy of Somerset’s current residents—ushers guests directly to the rooftop, where city lights flicker beneath the stars.
A Vision for Expansion
The adaptability of Jabu is central to its growth plans. Vijayasekar hints at aspirations to expand this unique rooftop experience across key cities in Kenya. “The profile of your clients really determines how your restaurant will look,” he notes. With a demand for spaces that prioritize community over chaos, Jabu’s future expansion seems both natural and necessary.
Redefining Nairobi’s Nightlife
Jabu is not just a rooftop bar; it’s a reimagination of what Nairobi nightlife can be—where the clinking of glasses is underscored by laughter, the hum of conversation, and the gentle glow of city lights. A space that celebrates people, connection, and the happiness that comes from simply being present.
At Jabu, happiness is not just a promise—it’s an experience.
For highlights on the private tasting at Jabu, visit Instagram.