Nestled within the rapidly developing urban sprawl of Imara Daima, CJ’s at the new Imara Daima Mall has become a welcomed oasis of comfort dining and aesthetic appeal. Known for its signature blend of international cuisines and generous portions, CJ’s has long been a staple for Nairobi food lovers. But does the newest location live up to the brand’s reputation? After a recent visit, the verdict is clear: CJ’s Imara Daima offers a consistent, satisfying dining experience—marked by inviting ambiance, warm service, and flavorful, well-executed dishes.
✅First Impressions & Ambience
Walking into CJ’s at Imara Daima, the first thing that strikes you is how well-designed and inviting the space is. True to CJ’s brand, the interior is a balance of warm wood tones, subtle lighting, and modern décor. There’s a conscious effort to maintain a cozy, family-friendly vibe while still appealing to young professionals and casual diners. The layout is spacious, allowing for comfortable seating that avoids the overcrowded feel common in many urban restaurants.
Whether you choose a corner booth, an open table by the window, or seating closer to the action of the open kitchen, the ambiance is pleasant, clean, airy, and surprisingly quiet despite the mall location. The soft background music plays just loud enough to enhance the experience without disrupting conversation.
✅Drinks: Green Mojito & Milkshake
We kicked things off with the Green Mojito, a non-alcoholic classic from CJ’s refreshing drink menu. Visually, it arrived looking vibrant, a tall glass filled with muddled mint leaves, lime wedges, crushed ice, and sparkling green soda with a hint of mystery. The drink was zingy, cool, and invigorating, making it a perfect choice for Nairobi’s warm afternoon.
The balance was spot-on: not too sweet, with the mint coming through clean and crisp. It’s the kind of drink that works well on its own or alongside food. If you’re looking for a mocktail that satisfies both the eye and the palate, this one is a standout.
One person at our table went for a milkshake, and the creamy indulgence didn’t disappoint. It was served in a tall chilled glass, thick and rich with just the right consistency, not too runny, not overly frozen. It had that classic CJ’s charm: flavorful, smooth, and unapologetically satisfying. Whether you go for vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry, it’s clear that they don’t skimp on quality.
✅Main Course: Chicken Platter with Fries and Veggie Sticks
For the main course, we ordered the Chicken Platter, accompanied by crispy fries and fresh veggie sticks. True to CJ’s standard, the serving was generous, enough for a hungry diner or even two lighter appetites.
The chicken was perfectly grilled, juicy on the inside with a beautiful char on the outside that hinted at its well-seasoned marinade. It came with a delightful dipping sauce, tangy, mildly spiced, and perfect for enhancing the smoky flavor of the meat. Each bite delivered a satisfying combination of tender texture and bold seasoning. Whether you’re a white meat fan or prefer thigh cuts, the platter offered variety without compromising on consistency.
The fries were golden and crispy, seasoned lightly with salt and served hot. They had that ideal balance of crunch and softness, and paired excellently with the sauce provided.
The unexpected hero of the meal, however, was the fresh veggie sticks crisp carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers sliced neatly and served as a side. Often, restaurants throw in raw veggies as an afterthought, but CJ’s gave them attention. They were fresh, crunchy, and cleansing, adding a welcome lightness to the otherwise hearty dish. It was a well-thought-out element that elevated the whole meal.
✅Service & Hospitality
The service at CJ’s Imara Daima was commendable. From the moment we walked in, the host was welcoming, guiding us to a well-lit table with a smile. Our waiter was attentive without being intrusive, always checking in politely and offering recommendations when asked.
Despite it being a relatively busy afternoon, our order arrived promptly, and everything was served in good order and well-presented. What stood out was the genuine warmth of the staff—something CJ’s seems to have successfully instilled across its branches.
✅Hygiene, Comfort, and Accessibility
CJ’s scores highly on cleanliness. The Floors, tables, and restrooms were spotless, and hand sanitizer stations were placed at strategic points throughout the restaurant. Tables were cleared promptly after guests left, and surfaces were wiped down with care.
The restaurant is also accessible, with ramps and spacious aisles that accommodate wheelchairs or strollers. It’s a small detail, but one that reflects CJ’s commitment to inclusivity and convenience.
CJ’s at Imara Daima Mall delivers a dependable, high-quality experience for anyone looking for a satisfying meal in a stylish, comfortable setting. The Green Mojito was bright and flavorful, the Chicken Platter hit all the right notes of comfort food with flair, and the veggie sticks were a pleasant surprise. Add in a rich milkshake and outstanding service, and you’ve got the ingredients for a great dining experience.
Whether you’re dining solo, with family, or meeting up with friends, this new CJ’s location offers the same charm and culinary consistency the brand is known for, now conveniently available to Imara Daima locals and visitors.
If you’re in the area, this CJ’s is absolutely worth a visit.
Rating: 4.5/5
Great food, excellent service, inviting space.
Perfect for: Casual lunches, early dinners, family meals, mocktail dates.
Source: Nairobi Kitchen