Restaurant exterior
About Us

Our Coastal Legacy

For over three decades, Coastal Breeze has been more than just a restaurant—we're a family tradition, a community gathering place, and a celebration of coastal cuisine at its finest.

37+
Years
50K+
Happy Guests
15
Awards

Our Story

From a neighborhood dream to a beloved local gem

The Beginning

Ziwa Restaurant was born in 2014 out of a simple idea: to create a place where friends and family could gather over good food, great music, and warm conversation. Located along Ngong Road in Nairobi, Ziwa began as a cozy roadside joint with just a handful of plastic tables, a borrowed jiko, and a small chalkboard menu.

Our founder, Wambui Mwangi, grew up in the coastal town of Kilifi, where food wasn't just nourishment—it was celebration. Inspired by her grandmother's traditional Swahili recipes and her own travels across Kenya, she set out to blend coastal flavors with Nairobi's vibrant urban culture. Word spread fast. Soon, Ziwa wasn't just a spot for a quick meal—it became a place people came to feel at home.

Ziwa’s original location – a humble roadside café with a coastal feel
Ziwa today – modern restaurant interior with coastal inspiration

Today

Today, Ziwa has evolved into a full-service restaurant known for its signature Swahili biryani, grilled seafood, and creative takes on Kenyan classics. While the space has grown and the kitchen has modernized, our spirit remains unchanged—we're still your neighborhood spot with coastal soul.

Our team is made up of passionate chefs, local farmers, and friendly staff who care deeply about quality, culture, and community. Whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth, we welcome you with the same warmth and flavors that started it all.

Meet Our Team

The passionate individuals who bring our coastal dining vision to life every day

Wambui Mwangi

Wambui Mwangi

Founder & Executive Chef

With over 30 years of culinary experience, Wambui blends traditional Swahili flavors with modern Kenyan cuisine, crafting every dish with heritage and heart.

James Otieno

James Otieno

Co-Founder & General Manager

James ensures smooth day-to-day operations and brings a warm, welcoming spirit to every guest experience, just like a true Kenyan host.

Vivian Njeri

Vivian Njeri

Head Chef

Achieng is the creative force in the kitchen, known for fusing coastal traditions with fresh, locally sourced ingredients to elevate everyday meals.

Brian Kiptoo

Brian Kiptoo

Sous Chef & Grill Master

Brian brings fire to the grill and precision to the plate. Raised in Eldoret, his smoky nyama choma and sukuma twists are guest favorites.

Our Values

The principles that guide everything we do, from sourcing ingredients to serving our guests

Sustainability

We source responsibly from local fishermen and organic farms, protecting our oceans for future generations.

Family Tradition

Three generations of culinary expertise, passed down through time-honored recipes and techniques.

Excellence

We never compromise on quality, from ingredient selection to the final presentation of each dish.

Community

We're proud to be part of the Seaside Bay community, supporting local businesses and charities.

Ready for an Ocean Adventure?

Reserve your table today or order your favorite coastal dishes to enjoy wherever you are.