13 Best Restaurants in Tanzania

A popular hangout for the ex-pat community, the Blue Heron has long been the go-to spot for alfresco dining in Arusha with authentic Italian pizza, local wines and beers, generous salads, and an all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch. The quirky and unique atmosphere of dining under an umbrella of twisted beach wood leads out to expansive lawns and views of Mount Meru. While you wait, check out the on-site shop for souvenirs like jewelry, furniture, textiles, and sweets or coffee.

An unassuming entrance leads you into the heart of a hip gastro pub that showcases micro brewing in all its shiny steel glory. Winning bronze at the African Beer Cup 2022 for their Belgian Ale, Crafty Dee's is quickly becoming the talk of the town when it comes to looking beyond the country's beer staples of Kilimanjaro and Safari lager; its beer and food pairings are the perfect way to start your night out. Try the unique Lagerita, a twist on the classic margarita with a dash of the house Light Lager. 

Nearly every major African city has a local joint where you can mingle, chat, eat hearty grilled street food, and absorb the city life. Mamboz is just this kind of place for Dar es Salaam; they fire up their street-side barbecues as the evening light fades (they open at 6 pm). You name it, they can grill it and add in some flavorful Indian-influenced sauces. Their menu is hearty, well-priced, and as local as it comes. Its only drawback is that no alcohol is sold on-site, but with a vibrant street-side atmosphere it is the perfect place to watch the world go by.

If you're looking for a quick meal in between flights or safaris, Fifi's is a firm favorite for those looking for simple fare in a relaxed, casual dining atmosphere. The menu is a lovely fusion of Tanzanian favorites—mishkaki (spicy cubes of grilled beef) and mtori soup (aka banana soup)—and international fare like burgers and homemade pancakes. There is also free Wi-Fi if you need to catch up on the news of the world, decent coffee, and a cute boutique shop. 

Known locally as The George, sports fans and those seeking a good old-fashioned burger and fries head to this classic British pub. Big screen TVs, buckets of icy cold beers, an expansive barbecue list, and a dedicated area called the sports arena keep punters, expats, and locals satisfied and jovial. On Friday and Saturday evening the very popular dance floor and live music scene heats up with a festive, relaxed vibe.

A tiny blue-lined door frame and the fine printed "Lazuli" sign are all that let you know that you have found this little street-side cafe. The large wraps and fruit smoothies are prepared with fresh, local ingredients. There are only a few tables, and service can be glacial, but the smoothies are worth it on a hot and humid day. Wait for a quiet moment in the day, take a book, and escape the crowds and island heat to enjoy an icy avocado and coconut blast from heaven.

Sitting on a small terrace that overlooks the colorful and lively streets of downtown Stone Town, this Japanese restaurant—the only one on the island—offers up small share plates of Asian-inspired fusion food. The wide selection of freshly prepared seafood dishes and good service make this a good bet for any occasion.

This waterside hangout, named after Queen lead singer Freddie Mercury, who was born just a couple of blocks away, serves up the basics like pizzas and burgers in simple surroundings. The wooden terrace overlooking the ocean is ideal for sunset drinks or a pre-ferry drinks pit stop.

With a name that translates literally to "Fish, Fish" in Swahili, it's not hard to guess what's on the menu. The fish, in all its varieties and forms, is wonderfully delicious and in generous portions. Expect a festive atmosphere with plenty of live music on the weekends; it shifts to more of a club space in the evening with the city's young and vibrant.

There is a location downtown in the Diamonds Plaza, but the most popular is along the dusty dirt road near Oyster Bay.

Overlooking Slipway Beach, this may be the priciest Thai food in town, but Thai Kani still has a reputation for being tasty and deliciously authentic. The outside patio views, accompanied by one of their Champagne and sushi platter specials, is a very atmospheric way to while away the evening.

What could be more refreshing and delicious than an iced coffee in the midst of the humid city? This unassuming cafe-style pit stop is the perfect spot for the weary traveler looking for something beyond burgers and buns as they serve up tasty, quick bites that mix distinct Tanzanian flavors with Mexican fusion foods and style-it-yourself burritos and tacos.

Locals and expats in the know have this as their go-to stop for a good, hearty meal with a cold beer and a charming atmosphere undisturbed by the tourist trail. Expect a full plate---burgers, grilled chicken, and chips---and a good beer at a decent price with an unassuming local atmosphere; this is not the place for cocktails and wine. This is where you untuck, kick back, have an icy cold beer (or two) and watch the Zanzibar beach life go by while chatting to friends. 

If there is one place to get a good cup of locally brewed African coffee it's the unassuming Zanzibar Coffee house, a sweet paradise tucked in amid the houses to the alleyways. There might not be any Wi-Fi in the back thanks to the thick walls common in a traditional Arabic house, but it is a cool and deliciously simple café. There are even some great keepsakes for sale. Head up the series of stairs to the charming rooftop coffeehouse for a more specialized coffee and snack experience.