Are you planning your trip to Tanzania and looking to try some of the traditional dishes? You are in the right place! Tanzania is not only for wildlife safari or beach Holiday but also is for foodies who are eager to explore rich and diverse flavors of Tanzania.
The country’s cuisine is influenced by African, Indian, and Arabic cultures, resulting in a delicious blend of spices, textures, and aromas. Here are some must-try Tanzanian foods for your next holiday.
Best Foods To Try in Tanzania
Ugali
Ugali is a popular traditional dish in Tanzania and across Africa as a whole. It is made by cooking white cornmeal with water until it forms a thick, dough-like consistency. This meal is a common feature in Tanzanian households and restaurants, sometimes you can hear people call it ‘Sembe’. Ugali can be enjoyed at any time of the day whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is typically served with vegetables, meat, or seafood.
Zanzibar Pilau
Pilau is a flavorful rice dish with deep roots in Tanzanian cuisine, influenced by Asian and Middle Eastern cooking traditions. It is common at local gatherings and is commonly served in both homes and even in hotels.
This dish is prepared by cooking rice with a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, along with meat options like chicken, beef or goat. Potatoes, onions, and garlic further enhance its rich taste this meal. Pilau is sometimes reserved for special events like weddings, holidays, or Friday gatherings, making it a cherished meal in Tanzanian culture.
Book a Traditional cooking class with Spice Farm in Zanzibar.
Octopus Curry
Octopus curry is among favourite food in coastal parts of Tanzania, especially in the Zanzibar Islands. This flavorful dish combines tender octopus with a rich local spices, creating a perfect harmony of seafood and spice.
The octopus absorbs the creamy curry sauce, resulting in an irresistible depth of flavor. A key ingredient in this dish is fresh coconut milk, some vegetables like Tomatoes, onions and Okra. It is served with rice, ugali or any type of bread.
Nyama Choma
Nyama Choma, meaning “grilled meat” in Swahili, is a beloved dish in Tanzania and even Kenya. This flavorful barbecue specialty typically features goat or beef, slow roasted over an open flame until tender and smoky. Widely considered a national favorite and it is also eaten when the locals have any celebration, Nyama Choma is best enjoyed with a side of kachumbari (local salad) and a cold drink.
Ndizi Nyama, Utumbo, or Samaki
Ndizi Nyama, Utumbo, or Samaki is a beloved traditional dish in Tanzania, translating to “bananas with any meat, cow intestines, or fish.” Tanzania is home to over 20 varieties of bananas, with green bananas specifically used for cooking. This meal combines the starchy texture of bananas with rich, flavorful meat or seafood, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.
Whether paired with tender beef, cow intestines, or fresh fish, Ndizi Nyama remains a favorite among locals and a must-try for visitors. So, wherever you go in the local restaurant in Tanzania, you will need to order any combination which is best from those three options.
Chipsi Mayai
Chipsi Mayai, also known as Zege by the locals, is Tanzania’s most popular street food, found in nearly every corner of the country. This simple yet delicious dish is a potato egg omelet, where crispy fries are mixed with eggs and fried to perfection.
It is widely available, from small roadside kiosks to restaurants and hotels, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Tanzania. Often served with a side of kachumbari (fresh tomato and onion salad) and chili sauce, Chipsi Mayai is a flavorful and satisfying meal loved by locals and tourists alike in Tanzania.
Maandazi
Maandazi is a popular deep-fried bread that originated on the Swahili coast including Tanzania and Kenya. These soft, slightly sweet pastries are a breakfast favorite, commonly enjoyed with tea before starting the day.
Whether bought fresh from street vendors or made at home, Maandazi is a beloved treat found in nearly every corner of Tanzania especially in the morning time. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with a hint of coconut milk and cardamom, makes it a favourite for breakfast among Tanzania locals.
Maharage ya Nazi
Maharage ya Nazi is a flavorful and common Tanzania food, especially in the Zanzibar Islands and coastal regions. This dish consists of kidney beans slowly cooked until tender, then enriched with creamy coconut milk and some local spices like cumin, garlic, and bell peppers.
It is commonly served with rice, ugali, bread, or Maandazi, making it a versatile and satisfying meal. Found in almost all local restaurants along the coast, Maharage ya Nazi is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the rich flavors of Tanzanian cuisine.
Mseto
Mseto is a traditional Tanzanian dish made by combining kidney beans and rice, all cooked together with creamy coconut milk to create a rich, flavorful base. Popular in Zanzibar, as well as in coastal regions like Tanga and Bagamoyo, Mseto is often served alongside fresh seafood, meat, or chicken. Whether you’re a food lover or simply exploring Tanzanian cuisines, Mseto is a must-try for its perfect blend of textures and savory flavors.
Muhogo wa Nazi
Muhogo wa Nazi is a popular dish in East Africa, particularly in coastal regions. The term “Muhogo” means cassava, and “Nazi” refers to coconut, which perfectly describes this flavorful recipe. Cassava pieces are boiled until tender, then combined with rich coconut milk to create a creamy, savory dish. Typically served with fish. It’s a must-try for anyone wanting to experience the unique tastes of Tanzanian cuisine.
Zanzibar Seafood Platter
You can’t complete your trip to Tanzania without trying the Grilled Zanzibar Seafood Platter. This dish features locally caught fresh seafood, including lobsters, tender crab legs, and succulent shrimp, either steamed or chilled to perfection. Paired with a variety of flavorful dipping sauces like tartar sauce, local sauce, and mignonette, the platter offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Often served at hotels and tourist restaurants across Zanzibar islands.
Zanzibar Mix (Urojo)
Urojo, also known as Zanzibar Mix, is a must-try dish when visiting Zanzibar. This hearty and flavorful dish resembles a soup, filled with a delicious combination of ingredients like boiled potatoes, cassava chips, bajias (fried chickpea fritters), mashed potatoes, grilled meat (mishkaki), and boiled eggs. The dish is spiced with fresh chili and coconut chutneys, giving it a perfect balance of heat and richness.
If you’re a vegetarian, don’t worry! Urojo can be made vegetarian-friendly by simply omitting the mishkaki, just be sure to ask the restaurant for the vegetarian version. Urojo is a true reflection of Zanzibar’s vibrant culinary culture, offering a unique taste experience that you won’t forget.
Zanzibar Pizza
Zanzibar Pizza is one of the most famous street foods in Zanzibar and Dar es Salam, loved by both locals and visitors. Unlike the traditional Italian pizza, this version is more like a stuffed, pan-fried pastry. A thin layer of dough is stretched out and filled with a mix of ingredients based on your choice; chicken, lobster, prawns, calamari, or beef along with an egg, onions, mayonnaise, cheese, and a touch of chili sauce for extra flavor.
The best place to try this delicious treat is at Forodhani Night Market in Stone Town, where vendors prepare it fresh right in front of you. If you’re unsure where to start your food adventure, consider joining our Stone Town Walking Tour, which ends at Forodhani Gardens and you will try from there.
Grilled Sato Fish
Sato fish, a popular type of tilapia in many parts of Tanzania, is commonly sourced from Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika. Known for its tender texture and mild flavor, this freshwater fish is best enjoyed grilled, often served with a side of vegetables, rice, or ugali. If you’re staying on the Tanzania mainland, trying freshly grilled Sato fish is a great culinary experience.
However, if you’re in Zanzibar, you won’t find Sato as it’s not native to the islands. Instead, Zanzibar offers a wide variety of other delicious seafood options that are even fresher and more flavorful.
Learn more: Best Seafoods to Try in Zanzibar!
Deep-Fried Sangara & Chips
If you’re coming for your Tanzania safari, be sure to ask your tour operator to include Sangara on your menu. Also known as Nile Perch, this freshwater fish is one of the most delicious fish options you can try in Tanzania, sourced mainly from Lake Victoria.
Sangara is best enjoyed deep-fried to a golden crisp, paired with ugali, rice, or chips for a satisfying meal. While it’s commonly served in restaurants across Tanzania, having it on safari makes the experience even more special.
Mboga ya Kisamvu
Mboga ya Kisamvu, or cassava leaves, is a traditional dish and famous in many parts of Tanzania, especially in regions where cassava is widely grown. While not every restaurant serves it, it remains a favorite in local homes.
The dish is prepared by boiling cassava leaves until tender, then cooking them with coconut milk and a mix of flavorful spices like garlic, onion, chili, and ginger. This creates a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy dish that pairs perfectly with ugali or coconut rice. If you’re looking to experience authentic Tanzanian cuisine, Mboga ya Kisamvu is definitely worth trying!
Makande
Makande is one of Tanzania’s most popular traditional dishes, enjoyed across the country for its simplicity and rich nutritional value. This hearty meal is made by slow-cooking dried maize and kidney beans together, creating a thick, filling stew. Depending on personal preference, it can be prepared with either salt for a savory version or sugar for a slightly sweet taste.
Makande is a staple in many Tanzanian households, often served as a comforting and energy-boosting meal.
Zanzibar Biryani
Zanzibar Biryani is a must-try dish, known for its rich blend of aromatic Indian spices and perfectly cooked rice. This flavorful dish can be prepared with a variety of meats, including camel, chicken, beef, goat, lamb, or seafood, and even eggs or vegetables for vegetarians.
What makes Zanzibar Biryani stand out is the abundance of fresh, locally sourced spices such as cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and turmeric, which give it an irresistible depth of flavor. Unlike biryani from other regions, Zanzibar’s version is exceptionally fragrant and uniquely spiced, making it one of the island’s most beloved dishes.
Vitumbua
Vitumbua is a popular Tanzanian breakfast meal, often enjoyed with a cup of tea. While it may resemble Maandazi, it has a distinct texture and flavor. These soft, slightly crispy rice pancakes are made from a batter of rice flour, plain flour, coconut milk, sugar, and yeast, giving them a lightly sweet and aromatic taste.
Vitumbua is widely found on Tanzanian streets, especially in coastal regions, where vendors prepare them fresh in special rounded pans. They are anomaly sold on the streets with Maandazi and chapati.
Where to Try Tanzania Local Foods?
To understand where you should try the Tanzanian local cuisines we need to firstly know where you will be staying. As a tourist, you will stay at any or all of these 3 places in Tanzania; Arusha, Zanzibar or Dar es Salam. Here are the best restaurants depending on where you will stay.
Best Restaurants to try Tanzania foods in Arusha
George Tavern
George’s Tavern is a must-visit restaurant for seafood lovers and anyone looking to experience authentic Tanzanian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. The restaurant offers a wide selection of fresh seafood, sourced from both the Indian Ocean and Lake Victoria, ensuring top-quality seasonal flavors in every dish.
With a diverse menu, George’s Tavern caters to all dietary preferences, offering vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Khan's BBQ
If you’re in Arusha and authentic Tanzanian grilled meat (Nyama Choma), Khan’s BBQ is the place to be! Known for its perfectly seasoned and flame-grilled meats, this local favorite offers a variety of Tanzanian dishes that will satisfy any meat lover.
Whether you prefer to dine in the restaurant or grab a quick takeout, Khan’s BBQ offers both services.
Uzunguni City Park
Uzunguni City Park is a top local restaurant in Arusha, known for offering a variety of delicious local foods and refreshing drinks. If you’re a fan of Nyama Choma, you’ll love their lamb and beef options, perfectly grilled to your liking.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a hearty meal with friends or explore Tanzanian flavors, this spot delivers a fantastic experience.
Best Restaurants to try Tanzania foods in Zanzibar
The Rock Restaurant
The Rock Restaurant is one of Zanzibar’s most iconic dining spots, situated on a small rock in Michamvi Pingwe beach. Offering breathtaking views of the surrounding waters, this unique restaurant combines a menu of fresh seafood and Italian dishes, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a special lunch with a loved one, The Rock is the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. To make the most of your visit, consider combining your trip with a snorkeling tour at the Blue Lagoon in Michamvi Beach.
Emerson Spice
Emerson is one of the best and must visit Restaurants in Zanzibar. Located in the heart of Stone Town, actually this is the Emerson Spice Hotel’s restaurant, it is situated on the rooftop of Emerson Spice Hotel. The restaurant has a stunning view of the historic town and the Indian ocean.
The menu features a creative blend of traditional Swahili dishes with a contemporary twist, offering a unique culinary experience. Don’t miss the hotel’s famous tea ceremony which they organize on most days, you can contact them for this.
Lukmaan Restaurant
Located on Mkunazini Street in the heart of Stone Town, Lukmaan Restaurant is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. Known for its delicious and affordable Zanzibari and Indian dishes, this bustling eatery is always busy among locals and tourists, but the mouthwatering food makes it well worth the wait.
Some of their signature dishes include Mchuzi wa Pweza (octopus curry), Ndizi (banana with meat), and the famous Zanzibar Mix, a popular street food made with spiced meats, potatoes, and salad.
Best Restaurants to try Tanzania foods in Dar es Salam
Samaki Samaki
For seafood lovers in Dar es Salam, Samaki Samaki is one of the top dining restaurants you can visit, with two locations in Mlimani City and Masaki. Known for its fresh local seafood catched from the nearest ocean in dar es salam.
They offer entertainment and some other unique features, both two Samaki Samaki restaurants offer an enjoyable and lively atmosphere that makes it famous among the locals.
305 Karafuu
305 Karafuu is a boutique restaurant in Dar es Salaam, offering a delightful mix of international and local cuisines. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant provides a refined dining experience that caters to various dietary needs.
Whether you’re looking for vegetarian-friendly, vegan, or gluten-free options, 305 Karafuu has something for everyone. Enjoy your meal in their property and you can opt for takeaway if you’re on the go.
Ngalawa Surf & Turf
Ngalawa Surf & Turf is a seafront restaurant in Dar es Salaam, offering an exceptional dining experience with stunning views and a refreshing atmosphere. This popular spot is perfect for enjoying a variety of local Tanzanian dishes alongside international cuisine. With vegetarian and vegan options available, Ngalawa caters to all tastes and dietary options.
FAQs on Best Foods to eat in Tanzania
What are the best seafood dishes to try in Tanzania?
Tanzania offers plenty of amazing seafood options, especially in Zanzibar. The top must try seafoods are; Octopus Curry, Grilled Lobster & Prawns and Zanzibar Seafood Platter.
Is Tanzanian food spicy?
Tanzanian cuisine is not extremely spicy. The chilli is mostly used for just extra taste when people eat Nyama Choma or Pilau and biryani. However, Tanzania is a mixed culture country, you may happen in Indian restaurants especially if you are in Stone Town.
What are some vegetarian-friendly foods in Tanzania?
If you are a vegetarian, you will have plenty of delicious options, foods like; Maharage ya Nazi, Ndizi za Nazi, Chapati, Urojo, Boga and so many more.
What drinks should I try in Tanzania?
Tanzania has a variety of refreshing local drinks you may try, include; Stone Tangawizi Soda (Ginger), Sugar cane Juice and Tanzania Coffee and Tea.
Which food to bring back from Tanzania?
If you want to take a gift from Tanzania, consider buying Tanzanian Coffee, Black Pepper from Zanzibar and Local Honey from Maasai Villages.
Can I find international cuisines in Tanzania?
Yes! Tanzania, especially cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar, has a variety of international restaurants offering Indian cuisine, Italian food, Middle Eastern dishes, Chinese & Thai food, Fast food & Western options like KFC (only in Dar es salam).
