• Menu
  • Menu

Top Dishes to Try in Djibouti: Food & Dining Guide

Djibouti might be small in size, but its cuisine is packed with bold flavors and rich culinary traditions influenced by Africa, Arabia, and France. East Africa is known for its diverse food, and Djibouti reflects that diversity on every plate. If you’re hitting the streets of Djibouti City or venturing into the countryside, there’s a lot of authentic food to discover. In this guide, I’ll show you foods you should eat and the best places to find them, from street stalls to high-end dining.

Must-Try Dishes in Djibouti

Skoudehkaris

This is Djibouti’s national dish and a true comfort food. Skoudehkaris is a one-pot stew made from lamb, rice, onions, tomatoes, and a unique blend of spices. You’ll often see it served with a tomato and onion chutney on the side. The spices can vary, but expect flavors like cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon to shine through. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for getting a taste of traditional Djiboutian flavors.

Fah-fah

Fah-fah, or Djiboutian beef stew, is commonly made with tender cuts of beef cooked with a variety of spices. The key here is in the mix of cardamom, garlic, and hot chili pepper that provides both warmth and depth to the stew. Fah-fah is usually eaten with injera or served over rice for a flavorful, satisfying meal. Don’t miss it if you’re in the mood for something spicy and hearty.

Sambusas

If you’re a fan of snacks on the go, then sambusas will become your best friend. These crispy triangles are packed with fillings like minced meat, lentils, or vegetables. They’re similar to samosas found in India, but with a local twist in spices. These are especially popular during Ramadan, but you can find them all year round in street markets. You’ll typically get them with chutney or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Canjeero

Canjeero, also known as Lahoh, is a spongy, sourdough-like flatbread. It’s usually eaten for breakfast and is often paired with savory stews or even yogurt and honey depending on the meal. You’ll notice that canjeero closely resembles injera from Ethiopia, but it has a lighter, less fermented taste. You’ll find it served with tea for a simple but tasty breakfast.

Cambuulo

Cambuulo is a dish made primarily from azuki beans and rice. It sounds simple, but the preparation is where it shines. The beans are slow-cooked until they’re tender, then tossed with butter and sugar just before serving. Different regions of Djibouti might give their own twist to this dish, but the buttery sweetness remains the signature taste. It’s usually eaten as a snack or light meal.

Fatira

This dish is a popular breakfast option and it’s perfect if you like something comforting in the morning. Fatira is a type of fried dough that’s often served with honey or sugar. Sometimes you’ll see it come with eggs and cheese folded into the layers of the dough, making it a savory meal as well. You can grab fatira from street vendors or eat it as part of a larger breakfast spread.

Popular Street Foods

Bagiya

Bagiya is a street food you’ll quickly notice when wandering Djibouti’s markets. These are small fried balls made from gram flour and sometimes mixed with herbs or bits of vegetables. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect when eaten hot and dipped in a spicy sauce. Bagiya is the kind of snack you’ll want to grab while walking around, and it gives a quick taste of Djibouti’s street food culture.

Chipsi Mayai

Originally from Tanzania, Chipsi Mayai has made its way into Djibouti’s street food scene. Simply put, it’s an omelette with French fries cooked directly into it. Sounds strange? It’s surprisingly delicious and satisfying. You’ll see street vendors adding other ingredients like peppers or onions, but the base remains eggs and fries. Grab this for a quick meal or snack in between adventures.

Grilled Meats (Lamb and Goat)

If you love grilled meat, Djibouti won’t disappoint. Many street vendors grill lamb or goat to perfection on open flame grills. The meat is usually marinated beforehand with a variety of spices like garlic, coriander, and ginger. It’s smoky, juicy, and usually served with simple sides like flatbread or rice. Djibouti’s access to fresh meat makes this an essential street food experience.

Local Desserts to Try

Halwa

Halwa may not be exclusive to Djibouti, but the local version is a must-try. It’s a jelly-like dessert made from sugar, butter, and spice mixtures like cardamom and cinnamon. You’ll also find nuts like peanuts or almonds sprinkled on top. It’s served in slices and has a dense, sticky texture. Halwa is often seen during celebrations, but if you’re lucky, you can find it at local markets.

Date-based Sweets

Dates are hugely popular in Djibouti, and many local sweets are made by mixing dates with nuts, honey, or butter. Sometimes you’ll find date rolls that look like small pastries filled with date puree. These are commonly served with tea and are a great treat if you have a sweet tooth.

Where to Eat in Djibouti

Street Markets and Food Stalls

For the most authentic and budget-friendly meals, hit the street markets in Djibouti City. The Central Market is a great starting point where you can find everything from fresh fish to snacks like sambusas and fatira. You can also try local favorites like grilled meats. Eating in markets lets you experience day-to-day life and chat with friendly vendors about their food.

Boulaos Market is another good spot to visit. It’s smaller but known for its street food stalls and fresh produce. Here, you can grab quick bites like bagiya and fresh juices or find ingredients for your next meal.

Casual Dining

If you prefer to sit down but still want affordable eats, casual restaurants and cafes are abundant. Some popular places include La Chaumiere and Café de la Gare, both offering traditional dishes like skoudehkaris and fah-fah. They’re not overly fancy but serve consistently well-cooked food. Café de la Gare is also known for its cheap lunches and local vibe.

Another great spot is Le P’tit Bouffe, which offers a mix of French and local dishes. If you’re in the mood for something familiar, check out their French-style pastries and coffee.

Seafood Restaurants

Djibouti has a coastal location, so seafood is fresh and plentiful. Restaurants like Melting Pot and L’Historil specialize in seafood dishes, ranging from grilled fish to seafood stews infused with local spices. Djibouti’s seafood tends to have an East African twist, often cooked with cumin, turmeric, and cloves. While prices can be on the higher side, the freshness of the produce makes it worth the splurge.

Fine Dining

For fine dining, try Le Grand Hôtel or the upscale restaurants located within larger hotels. These spots include finer surroundings and more internationally inspired menus, but they still offer a chance to try Djiboutian flavors with a modern twist. The ambience is great if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to treat yourself to great food in a more formal setting.

Tips for Eating in Djibouti

First, be open to trying foods that might be unfamiliar. Djibouti’s cuisine takes inspiration from various cultures, meaning you could discover something new and incredibly delicious. If you’re eating local street food, make sure to ask vendors how spicy a dish is. Djiboutian food can be spicy, so if you’re not a fan of heat, specify your preference when ordering.

Lastly, don’t miss out on the local tea and coffee scene. The coffee is strong and often served with ginger or cardamom for added flavor. As for tea, it’s common to find it brewed with spices and served sweet. Pair it with some local snacks for the full experience.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *