Those traveling in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania will quickly discover that although there are plenty of gorgeous beaches outside of Dar, there is not much to do inside the city. There are limited museums, parks, tourist attractions, or must do activities. There is, however, a saving grace – FOOD! For a lot of travelers this is a big deal, and Dar doesn’t disappoint with it’s abundance and variety of restaurants. Here are a few of my top picks, most of which are open air due to the warm year round temperatures.
Cape Town Fish Market: Abutting the blue water, this multi cuisine restaurant is perfectly located for a sundowner drink or two. It also has a half price sushi deal everyday from 12-7.
Waterfront Sunset Restaurant: Located in the well known Slipway area in Dar, Waterfront is another great place to watch the sun sink low over the horizon. It has great pizzas and salads, as well as local food.
The Terrace: This rooftop restaurant is new to Slipway and only open at night. There are an assortment of meat, fish and pasta options, and an in ground pool makes a beautiful glow off the white open air walls.
305 Karafuu: Expats in Dar have been raving about this place, and especially about the succulent steaks. It’s located in a dodgy part of town, but once you enter, you can’t help but feel cozy and at ease.
Karambezi Cafe: This is a beautiful and scenic restaurant that most tourists visit at least once. It’s part of the Sea Cliff center, which includes a hotel and casino. The kingfish is delicious.
Addis in Dar: If you are interested in trying Ethiopian food, this is a great place to go with a group of friends. Don’t be afraid to get your hands messy!
Mediterraneo: This is my favorite place to spend a few hours – it has wooden, beachy decor with low, comfy chairs facing the ocean. The food is decent, and the atmosphere is great.
Local cuisine: If you are interested in trying the local food, as you should be, the best place to sample it is any roadside restaurant. It might be a bit intimidating to approach one and order, but it’s a great way to experience an important part of Tanzanian culture, and it’s a lot cheaper.
Where have you dined in Dar es Salaam?
2 Comments
By far, the best food I have found in Dar es Salaam are in the Indian or Chinese restaurants. You can find many great ones across the city, the City Centre has the best Indian and also wonderful street food – head there at night & you will find tons of cheap options.
Wow Dar es Salaam people are so friendly and easy going I really love the quality of food in Karambezi Cafe it is just awesome. But there was a restaurant in masaki area name roots sports bar and grill they have a full goal barbecue grill. which is unique i have not seen anywhere in my country.