When you think of Zimbabwe, you might picture stunning landscapes and wildlife. But Zimbabwe’s food scene is equally worth exploring. The cuisine is hearty and rich in flavor, with influences from local traditions and colonial history. Whether you’re after a traditional meal or a quick street snack, there’s a lot to try. Let’s dive into some of the best local foods you have to try in Zimbabwe and where you can find them.
Traditional Dishes You Must Try
Sadza
Sadza is the staple of Zimbabwean cuisine. This thick porridge is made from maize meal and is served with almost every meal. It pairs well with meat stews, leafy greens like rape or spinach, and peanut butter-based dishes. It’s simple but filling—perfect after a day of exploring.
You can try authentic sadza at Garwe Restaurant in Harare or Amanzi Restaurant, also in Harare. Both places serve their sadza with delicious sides like oxtail or traditional chicken stew.
Nyama
Nyama refers to grilled meat, often goat, beef, or chicken. It’s usually cooked over an open fire and served with sadza. The meat is seasoned simply but packs great flavor thanks to the smoky fire. It’s Zimbabwean barbecue at its finest.
For nyama with an authentic vibe, check out the local “braai” spots like kwaMereki, a popular outdoor barbecue area in the Warren Park suburb of Harare. There, you can enjoy your nyama straight from the grill.
Muriwo Unedovi
Muriwo unedovi is a green vegetable dish cooked with peanut butter. It’s usually made from leafy greens like kale or pumpkin leaves and served alongside sadza. The peanut butter adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
If you want to taste this, head to The Boma – Place of Eating in Victoria Falls. They serve it as a side with their traditional meal platters.
Matemba
Matemba are dried small fish, typically served as a snack or with a meal. You’ll find them fried until crispy, often eaten alone or with sadza. They’re salty, crispy, and full of flavor—a must-try for seafood lovers.
You can find matemba in many local Zimbabwean markets, but for a restaurant experience, visit Gava’s Restaurant in Harare. They often include it in their local meal platters.
Street Food to Try
Maheu
Maheu is a traditional fermented drink made from maize. It has a tangy, slightly sweet flavor and is perfect for washing down a heavy meal. You can find bottled versions in stores, but freshly made maheu is much tastier.
Grab some fresh maheu from local street vendors in downtown Harare or Bulawayo. It’s a refreshing and filling snack on the go.
Sadza Balls
In many townships, you’ll find vendors selling sadza balls on the street. The balls are made from leftover sadza that’s rolled up and often mixed with herbs or cheese. They’re a cheaper alternative to full meals but still filling enough to keep you going.
Pick up some sadza balls from markets or street vendors near Mbare Musika, Harare’s biggest open-air market.
Warm Peanuts
If you need a quick snack, try some roasted peanuts. Zimbabwean vendors sell them freshly roasted, warm, and salted in small bags. You’ll find them sold everywhere, from bus stations to street corners.
For the best roasted peanuts, look for women selling them near Market Square in Harare.
Top Restaurants to Visit for Local Food
Garwe Restaurant – Harare
If you want a sit-down meal with traditional Zimbabwean food, Garwe is a must. The portions are big, and the dishes are authentic. Try their goat curry with sadza, and don’t leave without tasting their peanut butter curry—it’s delicious.
The Boma – Place of Eating – Victoria Falls
Located in Victoria Falls, The Boma is an experience in itself. Not only do they offer traditional Zimbabwean dishes, but they also serve game meats like kudu or crocodile. They also put on a drumming show during your meal, so you’re in for a fun time.
Amanzi Restaurant – Harare
This spot mixes Zimbabwean and international cuisine. If you want to try local ingredients with a modern twist, Amanzi is the place to be. Their sadza and nyama dishes are famous, but they also have great vegetarian options like peanut-butter spinach.
Gava’s Restaurant – Harare
For a more down-to-earth, local vibe, Gava’s is a fantastic option. They focus on hearty Zimbabwean meals, like beef stew with sadza and vegetables. Prices are reasonable, and the dishes are packed with flavor.
Final Tips
If you’re in Zimbabwe, take the time to try the local dishes. Street food is as exciting as restaurant fare, and you’ll find some of the country’s best flavors in humble markets and food stalls. Make sure to ask locals for their favorite spots—they’ll point you to the most authentic places. And don’t be afraid to try something outside your comfort zone, like crocodile or fried mopane worms. You just might love it!
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