Our favorite restaurant was the local dive: The VIP Club, just across the road from the Mount Meru Hotel. At first the cab driver would not take us there because there were no other tourists, but he finally agreed to take us, come in a get us seated, and come back 1 hour later to pick us up.
Favorite Dish: We can recommend the Nyama choma (Swahili for "grilled meat." ). Just be sure your teeth are in good working order. We heard later that Tanzanian beef is not aged, so it is a little tougher than we are used to in the USA.
Updated Apr 4, 2011
Address: Across from the Novatel Mount Meru Hotel
While in Arusha, be sure to visit one of the city's many outdoor barbeque joints! Prepared over an outdoor fire, the local barbeques prepare a mean roasted goat (amongst other meats) with a very nice tasting local chili sauce! Enjoy your carnivorous meal with a cold Kilimanjaro beer!
The prices are cheap and the atmosphere is great! Don't miss out!
Written Jul 25, 2009
Address: Various - All over the city
Lively LADY Bar and Grill is located of the main Sokoine rd, turn right after Backpackers hotel, about 200 yards, towards the train station, or ask any taxi driver- they would know. Food is a mix of Indian and local. If you are looking for a big meal I suggest you go elsewhere- not because the food is not good- its better than most places (local places), but it takes too long to get served, rather get something quick like samosas (deep fried pies). Bar is small but ok (by local standards), serves a big variety of drinks, better than anyone, beers are usually cold, you can try shooters too. Crowd is mixed: expats, indians, some locals. Bar gets crowded, but not often though. Owner is a tall indian guy, rather friendly- hippy type... Anyway for a taste of local food go somewhere else like Nick's bar in Njiro, or Galaxy in center town. I don't know if its still open though, but try anyway... You may get more lucky than me!
Favorite Dish: Samosa (Sambusa)
Written Sep 10, 2008
Jambo Coffee house is a small and clean restaurant / bar on Boma road (neear the clock tower). They have a selection of sanwiches, salads and local hot dishes at very affordable prices.
It was quite good (although, as in most local places I would not recommend the salads to the newly arrived tourists !!!!)
Written Feb 13, 2005
Address: Boma Road
This Place serves authentic Mchagga (tribe) nyama choma, which is local style of barbeque. And being from Texas I know barbeque, and they do it very well. Now keep in mind that this is only perpared when you order it so getting a meal in Arusha does take some time but the wait is well worth it.
Favorite Dish: Ngombe (beef) nyama choma with ugali, although I have heard people call this a poridge I think it is a little closer to the sticky rice eaten in Southeast Asia (Laos, Thailand). The meal is complimented with just the right amount of chili, for the adventurous. the last time I was there in April 2003 is was about 3000Tsh (approx. $3.00 USD)
Written Oct 28, 2003
Address: Located on Stadium rd. instead GoldenRose Hotel
Website: www.goldenrosehotel.com
1 - 5 of 5
Reviews and photos of Arusha Region attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Arusha Region sightseeing.

This Place serves authentic Mchagga (tribe) nyama choma, which is local style of barbeque. And being from Texas I know barbeque, and they do it very well. Now...
12 members live in Arusha Region
Q: I have one day to myself in Arusha... what's the best way to arrange a visit to one of the national parks?
A: hi buddy, one day is not enough to do safari in arusha region in my opinion but choice is yours. one thing that i recommend to you "THE GREAT MIGRATION OF WILDEBEEST"
Read 5 Replies