The Alchemist

The Alchemist opened on New Year's Eve 2015 in Westlands and has since become one of the central venues of Nairobi's nightlife. It was founded by Peng Chen and Mitchell Morgan, a former television presenter, who wanted a space where music would be the focus, surrounded by art, food and fashion. Today it describes itself as a creative event space and a community of entrepreneurs working in art, food, drinks, fashion and music.

The site is largely open-air and works as a collection of spaces rather than a single bar. There is a lounge and a chill-out area, outdoor dining with food trucks, a designer shopping space, nightclub areas and stages for live music. An open-air cinema runs screenings, and the venue hosts parties, open mic nights and events put on by many of Nairobi's leading event organisers, so the line-up changes from night to night.

For cocktails, head to Sinnerman at The Alchemist, which is listed on The World's 50 Best Discovery guide. It serves classics and original creations such as the Great Gatsby, made with tequila, cucumber cordial and lala, a local fermented milk. Sinnerman is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and its DJs and events cover disco, funk, Afro house and Latin beats, including its regular Pantone Party. The Geco Tribe live-music brand also has a presence at The Alchemist.

The Alchemist suits groups of friends, solo travellers keen to meet people, music lovers and anyone who wants to see a cross-section of young, creative Nairobi. It is busiest late in the evening at weekends, when it can be crowded and loud. Earlier in the evening, food trucks and the cinema make it a more relaxed place to start a night out.

Check the venue's and Sinnerman's social media for the current events before you go, as some nights are ticketed and the programme changes often. Carry some form of ID, keep valuables secure in the crowds and use taxis or ride-hailing apps to get home. Parklands Road is in the heart of Westlands, close to many hotels, restaurants and bars, so it is easy to combine with dinner nearby.