Greetings from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the gastronomic Eden! In this place, every meal is a celebration of culture and community, and flavors dance on your taste receptors. The eating scene in Dar es Salaam, which is tucked away by the beautiful Indian Ocean shores, is a colorful mosaic of tastes and experiences. The city has something to offer every taste, from quaint street food vendors to classy dining establishments. Come along as we set out to discover the top eateries in Dar es Salaam, where mouthwatering cuisine and friendly service come together to create a once-in-a-lifetime eating experience.

 

A Foodie's Guide to Discovering the Best Restaurants in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

 

Hey there, fellow foodies! Welcome to the culinary paradise of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering adventure as we uncover the city's best-kept secrets—the top restaurants that'll tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Here's your ultimate guide to navigating Dar es Salaam's diverse dining scene:

 

1. Local Tips and Tricks: Start by chatting with locals for insider recommendations. They know all the hidden gems and can point you in the direction of the tastiest spots in town.

2. Online Exploration: Dive into the digital world and scour review websites and food blogs for restaurant suggestions. Check out mouthwatering food photos on social media to get a sneak peek of what's on offer.

3. Follow Your Nose: Let your senses lead the way as you wander the streets of Dar es Salaam. Follow the irresistible aromas drifting from street food stalls and local eateries—it's often a sign of deliciousness ahead!

4. Street Food Adventures: Don't be afraid to indulge in the vibrant street food scene. From savory snacks to sweet treats, street vendors offer a taste of authentic Tanzanian flavors that you won't want to miss.

5. Neighborhood Exploration: Venture beyond the tourist hotspots and explore different neighborhoods. Each area has its own culinary treasures waiting to be discovered, so don't be afraid to roam and explore.

6. Budget-Friendly Options: Keep your budget in mind when choosing restaurants. Luckily, Dar es Salaam has options to suit every wallet, from budget-friendly street food stalls to upscale dining establishments.

7. Embrace Adventure: Step out of your comfort zone and be adventurous with your food choices. Try new dishes, sample exotic ingredients, and embrace the culinary diversity of Dar es Salaam—it's all part of the fun!

 

With these tips in hand, you're all set to embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant streets of Dar es Salaam. So, let's eat, explore, and savor every delicious moment together!

10 Best Restaurants in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

1. Grand Restaurant

Grand Restaurant is a hidden culinary gem in the center of Tanzania that is well-known for its delicious food and first-rate service. The restaurant offers a range of delicious treats that have continuously pleased customers, all complemented by an artistically beautiful décor. A delicious breakfast buffet is also available at the restaurant. Another distinctive feature of The Grand Restaurant that makes it stand out is its thrilling Grand Burger Challenge, which has pleased customers. Even though it's a bustling center during the day, the restaurant offers a calm atmosphere for those who come in late.

What Customers are Saying

"Came here for their breakfast buffet and i wasnt disappointed. For starters it is only 16,500 pp. This is cheaper than any breakfast places i have been to… Doesn’t stop here, their spread is equally delicious. Hot drinks, water, eggs, sausages, pastries, cereals, fruits etc etc.. all you can eat I enjoyed my time here and will be coming back for moree." - Najum

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: American
  • Opening Times: 24/7
  • Address: 123 Samora Ave, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

2. Thai Kani Restaurant Ltd

In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the charming Slipway neighborhood seashore is home to the lovely Thai Kani Restaurant Ltd. Thai Kani is well-known for its superb seafood, particularly its sushi, and is a must-visit for anybody looking for an exquisite dining experience. The restaurant takes great pleasure in its friendly staff, spotless environment, and timely service. In addition to having an amazing selection of Asian fusion cuisine, it offers a calm atmosphere that is ideal for relaxing and taking in the breathtaking sunset views. Even though it's a seaside restaurant, the food is of excellent quality and is well worth the price. Its energetic and genuine charm are enhanced by the fact that the restaurant is a well-liked hangout for the community.

What Customers are Saying

"We had Poke bowl, Tuna Maki,Pac Sew, seafood noodles and Tuna steak. Overall everything was nice, good neighborhood and quiet comfortable sitting areas. Easy to locate and also with shops and other bars situated just few steps away." - Emelda

Restaurant information

  • Cuisine: Asian, Seafood
  • Opening Times: 12pm-10.30pm
  • Address: Slipway Dar-Es-Salaam TZ, 23425, Tanzania

3. Veranda Restaurant

Located in the center of Tanzania, Veranda Restaurant provides a distinctive menu and an amazing dining experience. A range of creative Indian tapas meals are available for patrons to savor, each expertly crafted and presented by culinary experts. The cheese balls, buffalo wings, and tempura prawns are some of the menu items that are particularly noteworthy. The exquisite decor of the restaurant adds to its pleasant mood, and the staff never fails to be helpful and kind while delivering prompt service. The Veranda Restaurant is a great option for people looking for a distinctive meal in a lively atmosphere.

What Customers are Saying

"Travelling with a gang of friends from London, we had an opportunity to dine at the Veranda restaurant in Dar-es-salaam – I was blown away by the selection of the Indian Tapas dishes that were served by the restaurant. Lovingly prepared and what a beautiful presentation of food that was put in front of us, mouth-watering dishes and each dish was perfectly prepared by the chef, be it a starters, mains or dessert. We had a selection of dishes between us and we were so full after the first round just because of the sheer diversity of dishes that were available to us. I particularly enjoyed the Tempura prawns, buffalo wings and how can I forget the famous cheese balls. If I have another opportunity to visit Dar, I will definitely go there again." - Hardev Bambhra

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Opening Times: 12pm-11pm
  • Address: 3rd Floor Terrance, Diamante Building, 22 Chole Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

4. Lock & Barrel Restaurant

Located in the center of Tanzania, Lock & Barrel is a lively and interesting restaurant. Additionally, the restaurant has a Happy Hour Specials menu that promises a delicious culinary journey at an affordable price. Even though the food and service are of a high caliber, the costs are reasonable. The music adds to the general happy atmosphere and the energetic environment. This restaurant is the perfect place for a dinner date or to catch up with friends because it has a lovely indoor and outside dining area. The personnel is amiable and knowledgeable, and the service is praised. For those looking for an unforgettable eating experience, Lock & Barrel is a must-visit.

What Customers are Saying

"I had such an exquisite time with my sister here. We went for sunday happy hour and the service was great. Totally worth your time and money, I can’t wait to go back next time. 🙌🏽" - Elisya Steven

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Thai, American
  • Opening Times: 12pm-11pm
  • Address: Haile Selassie Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

5. House of Cravings - HOC

Tucked away in the heart of Tanzania, House of Cravings is a gourmet treasure that serves a distinctive fusion of tasty meals in a lively, welcoming setting. This eatery is well-known for its extensive menu, which includes everything from delicious BBQ to Indo-Chinese and Indian cuisine. Savor the excitement of making your own homemade sizzler or treat yourself to the highly recommended HOC special sizzler. The restaurant's ambiance creates a cozy and tranquil dining experience by skillfully fusing modern and natural elements. Select from well-spaced inside or outdoor seating options to prevent crowding.

What Customers are Saying

"I had an amazing experience at House of cravings another comfort food spot in Dar es salaam,I loved the HOC special sizzler they also have a variety of sizzlers that you can try, and the waffles were top notch (the best in town)! Highly recommend checking it out." - Helena Isdory

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Indo-Chinese, Indian
  • Opening Times: 5pm-2am
  • Address: House Of Cravings - HOC, 471 Haile Selassie Rd, Dar es Salaam 80011, Tanzania

6. Samaki Samaki restaurant

The dynamic and vivacious Samaki Samaki restaurant in Tanzania skillfully combines Swahili culture with a global flair. This restaurant has a welcoming ambiance, top-notch service, and a varied menu that entices customers to return. A fun-filled kataoki night is held every Wednesday at 7 p.m., bringing a special touch to the eating experience. The meal is exceptional, always satisfying with large amounts. Samaki Samaki is more than just a restaurant; as the evening wears on, it changes into a vibrant lounge/club with a live band that plays cheerful music. Its beauty is enhanced by the rustic decor, which makes it cozy for guests to enjoy their meal and celebration.

What Customers are Saying

"Visited this place to have dinner, and got quite surprised that it could also be a lounge/club at night. Arrived early in the evening and stayed till early nightfall. The live band was really good, and the general vibe was upbeat. Good food too."- Naija Walker

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Seafood
  • Opening Times: 10am-2.30am
  • Address: Haile Selassie Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

7. The Backyard

A delightful and distinctive restaurant called The Backyard is located in the center of Tanzania's vibrant Dar es Salaam. This restaurant is well-known for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere, but it's also known for its inventive and enjoyable culinary experiences. The Backyard has excellent service, and the most of the workers are kind, eager-to-learn trainees. Along with the interesting, unique decor of the restaurant, patrons can enjoy the fresh air from outside. Numerous patrons compliment the restaurant for its ability to make their day unique, and the Backyard is a terrific place to celebrate special occasions.

What Customers are Saying

"We Visited in the Backyard restaurant for my niece birthday dinner. We stayed outside and enjoy the fresh air😊.The workers there have just the right balance of friendliness and efficiency. And made certain that we had everything we needed. The food was fresh, properly prepared and a great value for the price. We loved those mwendokasi chickens and pizzas they were so delicious 😋 my niece enjoyed it and was so happy on her day I can’t wait to taste their food again😋🤤 We highly recommend it." - Reay Dolphin

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian, American
  • Opening Times: 11.53am-3.53am
  • Address: 57RM+GX7, 288 Aly Khan Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

8. Chili and Lime

Tanzania's little Chili and Lime restaurant offers mouthwatering, real Indian food at incredibly low costs. Chili and Lime's assortment of Indian candies is one of its distinctive features; patrons can design their own sweet box. The restaurant is well-known for its timely service, spotless cleanliness, and welcoming personnel in addition to its consistently high-quality meals. The proprietors and employees are friendly, informed, and always willing to suggest something. The food is too good to resist, even though the interior setting is cozier than opulent. For anyone looking for a satisfying, real Indian meal, Chili and Lime is a must-visit.

What Customers are Saying

"Chili and lime is amazing!! Everything we ate was delicious! The owner is really nice and the staff is on point. I would eat here every day if I lived nearby." - Jose Molina

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Opening Times: 9am-10pm
  • Address: Kisutu St, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

9. Karambezi Cafe

Tanzania's Dar es Salaam is home to the Karambezi Cafe. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the ocean from its perch atop the gorgeous Indian Ocean cliffs. Karambezi Cafe has a warm, laid-back vibe that is ideal for a fun night out with friends or a romantic evening. The staff is welcoming and helpful, constantly ensuring that you have a pleasurable time. All of the dishes are made with fresh ingredients, and the flavors are amazing. The Karambezi Cafe is the ideal location for people who appreciate live music. There are usually live bands available to provide a lively and enjoyable ambiance. This location offers a stunning sunset that serves as a lovely backdrop for your evening.

What Customers are Saying

"Very nice view on the cliffs, great location, friendly service and very good cheesecake. Live music was fun and sunset beautiful as well. If you catch a table near the ocean, the experience is really nice." - Stephanie Krepelka

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Seafood, Mediterranean
  • Opening Times: 7.30am-10.30pm
  • Address: 776M+3XX, Toure Dr, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

10. Mama Afrika Restaurant Dar es Salaam

In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Mama Afrika Restaurant is a beachfront haven with delicious meals and a calm, soothing ambiance. A delightful assortment of East African cuisines, as well as outstanding specialties like grilled chicken Biryani and beef pilau, are among the menu's tempting offerings. The restaurant is also commended for its great atmosphere, impeccable service, and cleanliness. It's the ideal spot for foodies and those looking for a peaceful getaway because guests may eat while taking in views of the stunning beach. Visit Mama Afrika Restaurant, a favorite among both residents and visitors, and take in the relaxed atmosphere.

What Customers are Saying

"One of my favorite places in Dar. Clean, calm, food is excellent, service is great & lovely ambience." - Mwamimi

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: East African
  • Opening Times: 10am-12am
  • Address: Unnamed Road, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Wrapping Up

We consider the vivid flavors, kind service, and remarkable dining experiences we've had as our gastronomic journey through Dar es Salaam, Tanzania draws to an end. Every restaurant we went to provided a different window into the intricate web of Tanzanian food and culture, from the busy streets to the classy dining rooms. Every meal was a celebration of flavor and history, whether enjoying international cuisine or local specialties. May these suggestions help you find your own personal favorites and make treasured memories as you organize your own gastronomic adventure in Dar es Salaam. Happy dining, till we cross paths at the table again!

Frequently asked questions about Restaurants in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania:

Q: What types of cuisine can I expect to find at restaurants in Dar es Salaam?
A: Dar es Salaam boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from traditional Tanzanian dishes to international cuisines such as Indian, Chinese, Italian, and more. You’ll find an array of options to satisfy every palate.

Q: Are restaurants in Dar es Salaam suitable for families with children?
A: Yes, many restaurants in Dar es Salaam are family-friendly, offering kid-friendly menus, high chairs, and sometimes even play areas for children. Families can enjoy a variety of dining experiences together in the city.

Q: Do I need to tip at restaurants in Dar es Salaam?
A: Tipping is not mandatory in Dar es Salaam, but it’s appreciated for good service. A tip of around 5-10% of the total bill is customary in most restaurants, although you can adjust this based on the quality of service received.

Q: Are reservations necessary at restaurants in Dar es Salaam?
A: It depends on the restaurant and the time of day. While some establishments accept walk-ins, popular restaurants and dining spots may require reservations, especially during peak hours or for large groups. It’s a good idea to call ahead to check availability.

Q: Are there vegetarian and vegan options available at restaurants in Dar es Salaam?
A: Yes, many restaurants in Dar es Salaam offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, catering to various dietary preferences. You’ll find a range of plant-based options on menus, including salads, vegetable curries, and more.

Q: What are the typical dining hours at restaurants in Dar es Salaam?
A: Dining hours in Dar es Salaam can vary, but generally, restaurants are open for lunch from around noon until late afternoon, and for dinner from early evening until late at night. Some restaurants may also offer breakfast options.

About Dinesurf

Dinesurf is your trusted companion for discovering the best dining experiences across Africa. Our team is dedicated to analyzing thousands of online reviews and ratings from diners to curate the most comprehensive and reliable restaurant guides.

But our work doesn’t stop there. Dinesurf’s platform extends beyond Tanzania and covers cities and suburbs across the entire African continent. We strive to help food enthusiasts discover hidden gems, popular eateries, and new culinary adventures, no matter where they are. With Dinesurf, you can explore a wide array of restaurants that cater to all kinds of tastes, preferences, and budgets.

Our mission is to transform your dining experience by providing the insights you need to make informed decisions about where to eat. Whether you’re planning a dinner date, a family outing, or a solo gastronomical journey, Dinesurf is here to guide you every step of the way. We invite you to join us on this exciting culinary exploration and discover the diverse flavors of Africa with Dinesurf.