Located in the upscale Gigiri residential area, Village Market is a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment in Nairobi. If you’re from London, imagine a combination of London’s Boxpark and Westfield White City, infused with lush green spaces and vibrant character—this is what Village Market offers.
Among the many malls and shopping centres in Kenya’s capital city, Village Market stands out. We’ve visited nearly all the shopping destinations Nairobi has to offer. In this review, we share our experiences at Village Market Shopping Mall and why we think it is a must-visit destination.
So, What is Village Market?
This impressive open-air complex blends retail, dining, and entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for travellers, digital nomads, and families. In our honest opinion, Village Market should be at the top of your list when visiting Kenya.
Our Experience: A Breath of Fresh Air
From the moment we first arrived, it was clear that Village Market was unlike any other mall in Nairobi. The open-air design, reminiscent of a traditional African market, immediately set it apart. The beautiful greenery and unique architectural design were like nothing we had seen before.
As we wandered through the complex, we were surrounded by lush greenery, flowing mini “rivers,” and cascading waterfalls. It didn’t feel like a typical shopping mall; it felt like a serene oasis in the middle of the city. The relaxed atmosphere made it easy to lose track of time, and we found ourselves returning again and again to soak in the great vibes.
The mall is huge. On our first visit, we only saw the “new” part of the mall, but we later discovered that it is divided into the old wing and the new wing, making it quite large.
The Food: A Culinary Adventure
If you’re a foodie, Village Market is a dream come true. The food options here are endless, catering to every taste and preference. Whether you’re in the mood for fast food, international cuisine, or traditional African dishes, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. As soon as you enter from the main gate (Gate B), you’ll be greeted by the open-air food court in the old wing, but there’s another food court inside the new wing. Multiple other restaurants, such as CJs and Artcaffe, are spread around the mall.
We indulged in everything from juicy smash burgers to authentic Nyama Choma (grilled meat), and each meal was a delightful experience. The outdoor food court, with its diverse selections of restaurants and food stands, was a particular highlight. With so many choices, it’s easy to undertake on a culinary adventure without ever leaving the complex.
Unique coffee spots like Spring Valley Coffee serve a spiced latte called Zanzibar Coffee, while Bun & Beef offers some of the best fried chicken and smash burgers we’ve had in Nairobi. The Italian-style pizza is also worth mentioning for its near-authentic taste, and traditional restaurant chains like CJs and Artcaffe round out the diverse dining options.
The Vibes: Nature Meets Modernity
One of the most captivating aspects of Village Market is its unique ambiance. Despite being a bustling shopping complex, the atmosphere is incredibly calming. As you walk around, you’re greeted by the sounds of chirping birds, soothing music, and the gentle rush of waterfalls. Close your eyes, and you might just forget that you’re in a mall—it’s more like being in a peaceful garden.
The combination of nature and modern amenities creates an environment that’s both relaxing and revitalizing, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring Nairobi.
Unlike many other malls in Nairobi, such as Garden City Mall, which felt empty, Village Market is always bustling with activity.
Entertainment: Fun for All Ages
Village Market is more than just a place to shop and eat—it’s a hub of entertainment for visitors of all ages. Adults can enjoy a variety of activities, from VR games to boxing matches and even a trampoline court.
For the younger crowd, the options are just as exciting. The “Under The Sea World” on the 4th floor is a fantastic children’s recreational facility where kids can engage in coloring, sensory sand play, climbing frames, and puppet concerts. The sheer variety of entertainment options ensures that everyone will find something to enjoy.
A Shopper’s Paradise
While Village Market is known for its food and entertainment, it’s also a shopper’s paradise. With over 150 retail shops offering everything from local crafts to designer wear, it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or indulge in some retail therapy. Like many shops in Nairobi, the prices are often marked up, but we also found some shops with a reasonable selection at reasonable prices.
The mall is also home to Kenya’s first M.A.C store, along with various beauty, hair, and salon services, making it a one-stop destination for all your needs.
We also discovered that Village Market has one of the largest and most beautifully designed Carrefour stores in Nairobi. This Carrefour offers a unique selection of products that we didn’t find in other locations.
A Must-Visit Destination in Nairobi
In our opinion, Village Market is one of Nairobi’s must-visit destinations. If you have time to visit only one shopping center in Nairobi, make it Village Market.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, enjoy a meal, entertain the kids, or do some shopping, this open-air complex has it all. The blend of nature, culture, and modern amenities makes it a unique spot that we found ourselves returning to time and again.
If you’re planning a trip to Kenya, make sure to carve out some time to experience Village Market—you won’t be disappointed.
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