Tanzania’s famous food brings together warm spices, coastal aromas, and centuries of African culture. Every meal, whether from mainland Tanzania or the spice-rich islands of Zanzibar, carries a story. This guide explores the best food to try in Tanzania, top dishes in Tanzania, street food in Tanzania, traditional food of Tanzania, and popular restaurants in Tanzania serving authentic food in Tanzania.
1. Ugali
Ugali is a comforting cornmeal dish deeply rooted in Tanzanian daily life. Soft, warm, and filling, it is one of the must-try foods in Tanzania and is typically served with curries, vegetables, or grilled meat. Its simplicity and versatility make it a staple enjoyed across homes, restaurants, and local eateries.
- Best Places to Try: Mamboz Corner BBQ, Kukurico Restaurant, Hekima Garden.
- Price: 2000 to 5000 TZS (₹70 to ₹180).
- Best Served With: Vegetable stew, grilled meat, or fish.
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2. Nyama Choma
Nyama Choma is grilled meat cooked slowly over charcoal until smoky, tender, and full of rich flavor. Loved across Tanzania, it is one of the most iconic Tanzania famous food dishes that visitors must try, especially in local BBQ spots where the aroma and taste capture true East African cooking.
- Best Places to Try: Samaki Samaki, Best Bite BBQ.
- Price: 8000 to 15000 TZS (₹280 to ₹520).
- Best Served With: Ugali or Kachumbari salad.
3. Zanzibar Biryani
Zanzibar Biryani blends fragrant spices, tender meat, and perfectly cooked rice, creating one of the best foods to try in Tanzania. With its coastal roots, this biryani is aromatic, richly seasoned, and deeply flavorful , an essential dish for anyone exploring Tanzanian cuisine.
- Best Places to Try: The Rock Zanzibar, Lukmaan Zanzibar.
- Price: 7000 to 12000 TZS (₹250 to ₹420).
- Best Served With: Sliced onions and a side salad.
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4. Chipsi Mayai
Chipsi Mayai is Tanzania’s ultimate comfort street food—an omelet made with crispy fries, loved for its simplicity and satisfying flavor. It’s widely available at roadside stalls and a must try food in Tanzania for first-time visitors.
- Best Places to Try: Kariakoo Market, Dar Fish Market Dar es Salaam.
- Price: 1500 to 3000 TZS (₹50 to ₹110).
- Best Served With: Ketchup or hot sauce.
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5. Pilau
Pilau is a fragrant traditional food of Tanzania made with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Aromatic and festive, it’s commonly enjoyed during celebrations and special gatherings, making it a must try food in Tanzania.
- Best Places to Try: Night Food Market, The Best Pilau In The World Ever.
- Price: 4000 to 8000 TZS (₹140 to ₹280).
- Best Served With: Kachumbari salad or fried meat.
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6. Mshikaki
Mshikaki are marinated meat skewers grilled slowly for a bold, smoky flavor. Popular across Tanzania, they are a favorite street food enjoyed especially in evening markets and roadside stalls.
- Best Places to Try: Lumumba Grill and Barbeque, Samaki Samaki restaurant.
- Price: 500 to 1000 TZS per skewer (₹20 to ₹35).
- Best Served With: Chilli sauce or fresh vegetables.
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7. Ndizi Nyama
Ndizi Nyama is a hearty Tanzanian stew made with green bananas and tender beef, creating a rich, comforting flavor unique to the region. Its creamy texture and savory taste make it authentic food in Tanzania that every visitor should try, especially for a true home-style culinary experience.
- Best Places to Try: The Deck Kitchen and Bar, Mi Casa Lounge.
- Price: 4000 to 7000 TZS (₹140 to ₹250).
- Best Served With: Rice or flatbread.
8. Zanzibar Pizza
Zanzibar Pizza is a crispy, stuffed flatbread cooked on a hot pan and filled with cheese, veggies, meat, or sweet combinations. Its playful fusion of savory and dessert-style fillings makes it one of the top dishes in Tanzania, especially for travelers exploring Zanzibar’s vibrant street-food scene.
- Best Places to Try: Forodhani Night Market, Zanzibar Pizza.
- Price: 3000 to 5000 TZS (₹110 to ₹180).
- Best Served With: Fresh juice or soda.
9. Urojo (Zanzibar Mix)
Urojo is a creamy, tangy Zanzibar soup known for its rich blend of spices, crispy fritters, and fried potato balls. This comforting bowl is one of the most popular street foods in Tanzania, offering a burst of flavors that makes it a must-try for visitors exploring Zanzibar’s vibrant food culture.
- Best Places to Try: Forodhani Market , Urojo @ Jitini.
- Price: 1000 to 2000 TZS (₹35 to ₹70).
- Best Served With: A squeeze of lemon or hot chili.
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10. Mtori
Mtori is a smooth and comforting banana and beef soup originating from the Kilimanjaro region. Mild in flavor and rich in texture, it is one of the most traditional foods of Tanzania and is especially enjoyed for breakfast. Its hearty, nourishing taste makes it a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
- Best places to try: Fifi’s Restaurant, The Waterfront.
- Price: 3000 to 6000 TZS (₹110 to ₹210).
- Best Served With: Chapati or flatbread.
11. Samosa
Tanzanian samosas show the country’s Indian culinary influence, offering crisp, golden pastry filled with spiced meat or potatoes. Found in busy markets and local cafés, they are one of the must-try snacks in Tanzania, loved for their bold flavor and perfect crunch—ideal for a quick bite anytime.
- Best places to try: Kariakoo Market, Baba’s Kitchen.
- Price: 500 to 1000 TZS (₹20 to ₹35).
- Best Served With: Tamarind sauce or chutney.
12. Vitumbua
Vitumbua are soft, fragrant rice cakes made with coconut, enjoyed across Tanzania as a comforting breakfast or sweet snack. Their slightly crisp edges and fluffy center make them one of Tanzania’s most famous food items, especially loved in coastal regions for their rich aroma and satisfying texture.
- Best places to try: LAZZIZ Bakery Znz.
- Price: 500 to 1500 TZS (₹20 to ₹50).
- Best Served With: Tea or coffee.
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13. Coconut Fish Curry
Coconut Fish Curry is a rich, aromatic coastal dish made with tender fish simmered in coconut milk and spices. Its creamy texture and balanced flavor make it one of the best foods to try in Tanzania, especially for seafood lovers seeking an authentic local experience.
- Best places to try: Fisherman’s Seafood & Grill, Wavuvi Kempu.
- Price: 6000 to 12000 TZS (₹210 to ₹420).
- Best Served With: Rice or flatbread.
14. Chapati
Chapati in Tanzania is soft, flaky, and perfect with curries, beans, or vegetables. Loved across regions, it remains one of the most widely enjoyed authentic foods in Tanzania, served fresh in homes, cafes, and street stalls.
- Best Places to Try: Chowpatty Restaurant, Chef’s Pride Restaurant.
- Price: 500 to 1000 TZS (₹20 to ₹35).
- Best Served With: Curry or vegetable.
15. Mandazi
Mandazi is a lightly sweet, fluffy fried bread flavored with cardamom. Often enjoyed for breakfast or as a quick snack, it’s one of the must try food in Tanzania for travelers who love mildly sweet treats. Soft, warm, and aromatic, it pairs perfectly with chai and is found in cafés and local eateries across the country.
- Best Places to Try: Karambezi Cafe, Baraza Restaurant And Cafe Ltd.
- Price: 500 to 1500 TZS (₹20 to ₹50).
- Best Served With: Tea or coffee.
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FAQs
What is Tanzania’s national food?
Ugali is widely recognized as the national food of Tanzania. It is a simple cornmeal dish served with vegetables, grilled meat, fish, or curry and forms the base of everyday Tanzanian meals.
What type of food is eaten in Tanzania?
Tanzanian cuisine features a mix of grilled meats, banana-based stews, pilau rice, chapati, coconut curries, and fresh coastal seafood. These dishes reflect the country’s diverse regions and Swahili influences.
What are the most popular dishes in Tanzania?
Top dishes in Tanzania include Nyama Choma (grilled meat), Urojo (Zanzibar mix soup), Pilau, Zanzibar Biryani, and Chipsi Mayai (fries omelet). These are widely enjoyed by locals and visitors across the country.
Is Tanzanian food spicy?
Tanzanian food is generally mild, relying on warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom rather than intense heat. Most dishes focus on aromatic, balanced flavors.
Where can tourists try authentic Tanzanian food?
Travelers can enjoy authentic Tanzanian food at popular restaurants such as Samaki Samaki, Lukmaan, and Mamboz Corner BBQ, and traditional eateries found in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar. These places serve classic local dishes prepared in traditional styles.
