5 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.

The Park Hyatt's Brasserie and Oriental restaurants are both equally fantastic, but by far the hotel's real gem is the spectacular rooftop bar, Level 8. Commanding views of both the city and the working port extend out on either side of the striking, sweeping architecture and high glass walls. There is an unpretentious menu of classical bar and lunch fare like grilled changu (fish) with chips, or delicious fried plantains and snack baskets of beer battered fish, vegetables, and spicy chicken wings. Throw in some live evening jazz and you have the perfect sunset escape that you would be hard-pressed to leave.

A fusion of French and Swahili cuisine, the hallmark of one of Arusha's top restaurants is its inventive daily changing signature menu as well as lunches that feature dishes like Swahili-style red snapper en papillote (cooked in a paper wrapper), mixed grilled skewers with Belgium fries, and garden green pea soup. The outdoor dining terrace has magnificent views over the valley towards Arusha town, making it a popular spot for those seeking some quiet and comfort in classic style. Reservations are essential.

Ascend up the winding staircase past the eclectic collection of artwork to a bright and sunny sundeck with an infinity pool overlooking downtown Stone Town. This is the spot for sunset cocktails, vibey DJ music, and delicious nibbles---the menu is a fusion of Indian, Mediterranean, and Swahili flavors like tuna and compressed watermelon and ponzu or pan seared octopus and chorizo with a chimichurri chased down with a spiced mango daiquiri. Don't come in your flip-flops and safari khakis as this place calls for more refreshingly cool attire.

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.