Main Mess

W238+R5F, Gachororo road, Juja, Kenya
$$$ Cafe
(69 Reviews)
Price Range KES 1–500

Welcome to Main Mess, an unassuming yet vibrant café nestled in the heart of Juja, Kenya, specifically located at W238+R5F on Gachororo Road. This establishment is not just a dining spot; it's a haven for the local students and officials at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), where the bustling atmosphere is filled with the energy of youthful conversations and the comforting aroma of homemade meals.

Main Mess specializes in affordable, hearty meals that cater primarily to the JKUAT community. The café's charm lies in its simplicity and accessibility, combined with an array of beloved dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. Imagine indulging in a plate of Chapati and Ndengu, a local favorite that seamlessly blends the soft, flaky chapati with the earthy flavor of green grams. For meat lovers, there's the enticingly cheap meat stew served alongside staple carbohydrates—talk about a warming, filling dish that can put a smile on anyone's face!

While the ambiance might not boast extravagant décor, the café exudes a warm, homely vibe that makes diners feel welcomed and at ease. It's a space where students can relax between classes, enjoy meals on a budget, and socialize without the pressure of high prices. In fact, many customers have praised Main Mess for its reliability and affordability. Reviewer Malachi Ndungu mentions that the mess is a “budget saver” with an impressive assortment of dishes, although he wishes for better adherence to opening hours to avoid missing out on favorites. Similarly, Bruce Mariga echoes these sentiments, labeling this spot as “edible” food at “less than Ksh 50.”

The chatter of students can be seen as a soundtrack to your meal, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages camaraderie. And when it comes to menu variety, while it may be limited, there's always something appealing on offer, like Chapoo mbili beans rice for a mere Ksh 33, highlighted by satisfied patrons like Andrea Adedi.

In summary, Main Mess is more than just a café; it's a community staple where affordability meets satisfying meals. Whether you’re a hungry student on the go or someone looking to immerse yourself in local favorites, Main Mess is a must-visit for a genuine taste of the student spirit in Juja.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
University students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

06:30 AM - 08:30 AM

,

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Tuesday

06:30 AM - 08:30 AM

,

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Wednesday

06:30 AM - 08:30 AM

,

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Thursday

06:30 AM - 08:30 AM

,

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Friday

06:30 AM - 08:30 AM

,

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Saturday

06:30 AM - 08:30 AM

,

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Sunday

06:35 AM - 08:30 AM

,

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

69 Reviews
George Jefa

24 Sep 2025

The JKUAT main mess, is a good place for taking your meal, but it only works with the students or officials working there since the payment system one should have registered in the JKUAT e-services

malachi Ndungu

04 Sep 2025

I find Main mess in JKUAT affordable and Reliable to take meals. We are served with various Dishes not excluding my favourite meal Chapati + Ndengu. The only challenge I have encountered is the schedule time to opening and Closing which Sometime affect Dishes Availabilities.

Tobias “Bitutu” Muendo

26 Jul 2025

The looks aint too good but the food is way cheap. You could flex with some meat stew @60 bob. Hiumirity tu Chapo ni ten. Na ni kubwa

Bruce Mariga

21 Jul 2025

Budget saver. Food is edible . But don't expect alot. Menu is limited but if you wish to eat with less than ksh 50. Mess is the place to be

Andrea Adedi

18 Jun 2025

Yummy...comrade friendly prices..chapoo mbili beans rice @ 33

Join the Main Mess Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.