Ugandan restaurant chain Café Javas is making bold moves in Kenya, announcing the opening of its ninth outlet in Nairobi at the upscale Lavington Avenue Mall. This rapid expansion not only cements its presence in the city’s competitive casual dining market but also signals a direct challenge to established rivals Artcaffé and Java House.
Since its debut on Koinange Street in April 2018, Café Javas has grown into a household name in Kenya, becoming a go-to spot for dates, business meetings, and casual hangouts. Its swift rollout into high-end neighborhoods such as Kilimani, Village Market, and The Waterfront Mall in Karen has positioned the brand as a serious contender in Nairobi’s vibrant food culture. With seven outlets already in the capital and two in Mombasa, Café Javas has now matched the nine outlets it operates in Uganda, mostly clustered in Kampala with one in Entebbe. By the close of 2025, Kenya is on track to surpass Uganda in hosting more Café Javas locations.
Industry observers note that Café Javas’ rise has disrupted the dining landscape. Artcaffé has long thrived with its bakery-café model and sophisticated appeal, while Java House, with over 80 outlets across East Africa, pioneered Nairobi’s modern coffee culture. Café Javas, however, has carved its own path with a diverse menu blending continental, African, and fast-food dishes in a setting that strikes a balance between family-friendly comfort and corporate polish. This unique positioning has forced competitors to rethink strategies, from innovating menus to expanding delivery services.
Choosing Lavington, a hub of affluence and cosmopolitan living, reflects Café Javas’ intent to strengthen its premium market presence while continuing to chip away at the dominance of incumbents. With a total of 18 outlets across Uganda and Kenya, the chain has transformed into a regional challenger brand that mirrors both the spending power of Kenya’s middle class and the growing ambition of Ugandan enterprises to expand beyond home soil.
As Café Javas sets its sights on deeper growth, its expansion story is more than just about food it’s a symbol of regional integration and East Africa’s evolving hospitality scene. For Nairobi diners, the arrival of another outlet in Lavington means more choice, heightened competition, and a dining experience that continues to raise the bar.
Takeaway: Café Javas is no longer just a Kampala favorite it’s now a regional powerhouse redefining how Nairobi eats out.