Mettos
Matteo’s Italian Restaurant and Bar is one of the most highly rated Italian dining destinations in Naivasha, offering visitors an authentic taste of Italy along the scenic shores of Lake Naivasha. Located on Moi South Lake Road in Karagita, this charming lakeside restaurant and resort blends traditional Italian recipes, fresh ingredients, and a relaxed countryside atmosphere, creating a memorable culinary experience in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley.
Whether you are visiting Naivasha for a weekend getaway, wildlife adventure, or road trip from Nairobi, Matteo’s delivers a refined yet welcoming dining experience often described as bringing a true slice of la dolce vita to the heart of Kenya.
Authentic Italian Cuisine in Naivasha
Matteo’s Italian Restaurant is known for its commitment to authentic Italian cooking techniques, using carefully selected fresh ingredients to create classic Mediterranean flavours. The restaurant’s menu features a wide variety of traditional Italian dishes, making it a popular choice for both local diners and international travelers seeking high-quality Italian cuisine near Lake Naivasha.
Guests can enjoy signature thin-crust pizzas prepared using traditional Italian methods, as well as handmade pasta dishes that highlight rich sauces and authentic flavour profiles. One of the restaurant’s most popular dishes is the spinach and ricotta ravioli served in a creamy pink sauce, offering a perfect balance of richness and freshness.
The menu also includes Italian specialties such as Bresaola Carpaccio and Bruschetta Toscana, both known for their light yet flavourful presentation. Classic comfort dishes like lasagna are prepared using time-honoured recipes that reflect true Italian culinary heritage.
Exceptional Desserts and Italian Coffee Experience
No visit to Matteo’s Italian Restaurant is complete without sampling its renowned dessert selection. The restaurant is especially famous for its rich tiramisu and creamy cheesecake, both prepared using authentic Italian techniques.
Guests often pair desserts with freshly brewed Italian coffee or enjoy a relaxed lakeside drink from the restaurant’s fully stocked bar, making Matteo’s a perfect location for both casual dining and special celebrations.
Relaxed Lakeside Atmosphere and Garden Dining
Matteo’s Italian Restaurant and Bar offers a cozy and family-friendly environment surrounded by landscaped gardens and peaceful views near Lake Naivasha. The quiet setting allows guests to enjoy meals in a tranquil outdoor atmosphere, ideal for romantic dinners, family outings, and group gatherings.
The restaurant’s proximity to the lake enhances the overall experience, offering visitors a refreshing and scenic dining environment rarely found in traditional urban restaurants.
Resort Accommodation and Guest Facilities
Beyond dining, Matteo’s also operates as a boutique resort offering comfortable accommodation options for travelers exploring Naivasha. Guests can stay in well-appointed family rooms featuring garden or lake views, creating a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure in the Rift Valley.
The property provides free WiFi, a fitness room, and ample private parking, ensuring convenience and comfort for both short-term visitors and overnight guests. The restaurant is also wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking, entrance, and seating arrangements designed to accommodate all guests.
Families traveling with children will appreciate the dedicated playground area and child-friendly dining facilities, making Matteo’s an inclusive destination suitable for all age groups.
Perfect Stop When Exploring Naivasha Attractions
Matteo’s Italian Restaurant is conveniently located near some of Naivasha’s most popular tourist attractions, making it an ideal dining stop during regional travel adventures. Visitors often combine their meal experience with trips to Crescent Island Game Park, where they can enjoy walking safaris among wildlife, or visit Hell’s Gate National Park, famous for cycling trails, dramatic gorges, and geothermal landscapes.
Mount Longonot National Park, known for its challenging hiking trails and crater views, is also located within driving distance, allowing visitors to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine after a day of outdoor exploration.
Why Visit Matteo’s Italian Restaurant and Bar?
Matteo’s stands out as one of the best Italian restaurants in Naivasha because of its authentic cuisine, scenic lakeside location, and welcoming atmosphere. The combination of traditional Italian flavours, comfortable resort accommodation, and family-friendly facilities makes it a versatile destination suitable for couples, families, and travelers exploring Kenya’s Rift Valley region.
Whether you are searching for fine Italian dining near Lake Naivasha, a relaxing garden restaurant, or a unique culinary stop during your Rift Valley adventure, Matteo’s Italian Restaurant and Bar offers an unforgettable dining and hospitality experience.
Essential Visitor Information
Matteo’s Italian Restaurant and Bar is located along Moi South Lake Road in Karagita, Naivasha. The restaurant operates daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM and welcomes both walk-in guests and reservations.




