The city of Arusha is situated at the foothills of Mount Meru and surrounded by a variety of fascinating national parks.
The moment you enter the city and experience the welcoming feel, the laid-back atmosphere and the calming sunshine on your skin, you will start craving the local cuisine before embarking on your safari adventure.
Local foods in Arusha include fresh meat, fruits and vegetables as well as chicken, and a range of delicious stews prepared with fresh ingredients – natural herbs and spices.
If you truly want to experience the city, you’ll need to dive in and discover foods that are prepared in a local style. Most of the ingredients were grown in a local garden and are assembled into hearty dishes.
In the mornings, the locals prefer eating deep-fried bananas (ndizi choma), sweet potato or boiled cassava, taken along with their chai (tea). Another common food is called Chapati, thin and flat bread made prepared with wheat flour, and it’s usually eaten for breakfast or dinner.
The East African food called mandazi, usually made from wheat flour is also common. You’ll find several mama vendors selling grilled corn (mahindi choma) on the streets, they are delicious and yummy. Nyama Choma ( barbecued meat) is also a popular East African delicacy and it’s served with a plate of chips, Zanzibar pizza, and naan in local restaurants and joints in Arusha.
There are several restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Tanzanian foods, other African foods, as well as Indian, Mediterranean, and Chinese foods in Arusha.
You’ll also find a variety of restaurants serving intercontinental dishes as well. Let’s take a look at several places where you can eat delicious meals in Arusha.
Khan’s is a popular spot for delicious grilled-barbecue in Arusha. Here you’ll find a variety of skewered and grilled meat served with salad.
The BBQ spot is an auto-spare shop during the day but at night, the scene changes and it becomes a place known for BBQ. This is the best place to experience the city like a local.
Fifi's Restaurant features delicious dishes for breakfast lunch and dinner, and it’s the best place to get tasty milkshakes in Arusha. It offers you freshly baked cakes, pastries, and variety of blended juices, coffee, and Italian Soda.
Le Patio has a fountain and a garden in its L shape form; it features a kitchen, dining room and outdoor bar. Thinking of a group gathering or an intimate date, Le Patio is the ideal place to visit for the best hamburger in town.
Sandwiches and pizzas are served. The restaurant is excellent for dinner where a wide range of wine and liquor selection can accompany a meal.