Ali Barbour’s Cave

George & Jackie Barbour decided some 30 years ago to convert a cave into this unique restaurant. All is exactly as discovered except the chamber housing the kitchen and lavatories. In the restaurant only the stone floor has been added together with furniture and fittings, lighting and sound effects. The natural holes in the roof crust are open to the sky, protected in bad weather with sliding covers. A triangular makuti (threaded palm leaves) umbrella soars over the cocktail bar and reception area supported by a single blue gum pole over 50 feet high (nearly 20 meters) which came from the family farm in Kitale.

Ali Barbour’s Cave is thought to be between 120,000 and 180,000 years old. Situated about 30km south of Mombasa and 200m back from the high water mark, it comprises a series of interlinking chambers at depths of up to 10m below ground level. The natural holes in the cave ceiling are open to the sky and seating is under the stars creating an intimate and elegant atmosphere. The cuisine is typically international, specializing in seafood. Ali Barbour’s Cave is truly a unique dining experience.