Zimbabwe
Zimbabwean cuisine revolves around "sadza," a thick porridge from maize meal. Sadza serves as the staple and often accompanies "relish," a stew or sauce made from meat (beef, chicken, game) or vegetables (collard greens, "muriwo," or pumpkin leaves, "muboora").
The cuisine also has influences from British colonization and regional African culinary traditions. This blend creates a comforting food experience.
Traditionally, sadza goes with the right hand. Diners roll a small ball of sadza and then dip it into the relish. Most restaurants will provide cutlery.
Meals are often shared, especially in homes or less formal settings. This way of eating feels communal.
Expect warm hospitality from hosts and restaurant staff. Accepting offers of food or drink shows politeness.
This is the national dish. It consists of a thick maize meal porridge served with a stew of beef, chicken, or game meat.
Widely available at local restaurants and food stalls throughout Harare.
Collard greens (or other leafy greens like rape or pumpkin leaves) cooked with meat. This serves as a common relish accompanying sadza.
A staple side dish with sadza.
A rich, savory stew, often made with chicken or vegetables, and thickened with peanut butter. It is served with sadza or rice.
The peanut flavor creates a distinct taste.
Seasonal. Enjoy roasted corn on the cob.
A common, light snack.
Discover upscale dining venues for sophisticated palates.
Find comfortable and diverse options for everyday meals.
Experience authentic local flavors at affordable prices.
Harare presents a good selection of international restaurants, comprising Italian, Indian, Chinese, Portuguese, and Lebanese options.
These are mainly in the northern suburbs and commercial centers like Sam Levy's Village.
Whether you seek a specific foreign dish or a diverse culinary experience, these establishments serve various tastes.
Many are located within easy reach of popular hotel areas.
A massive market for fresh produce and informal food vendors.
A smaller market with some food vendors.
Informal outdoor spots where locals gather for grilled meat and socializing.
Grilled chicken or meat often found at informal roadside eateries.
Vegan options demand careful inquiry, as many local dishes may use animal fats or broths. Communicate your dietary needs clearly.
International restaurants are often a good starting point for specific requests.
For severe allergies, consider self-catering where possible. Carry a translation card that clearly states your critical dietary restrictions.
Direct communication with restaurant staff is the best approach.
Generally, traditional Zimbabwean dishes maintain consistency year-round. Certain fruits are seasonal and appear at specific times of the year.
The Braai (BBQ) culture is an unique dining concept. Locals gather at informal spots or specific venues on weekends for grilled meat, music, and socializing.
Formal cooking classes specifically for Zimbabwean cuisine are limited in Harare. However, some guesthouses might offer informal cooking demonstrations upon request.
Organized food tours are not widely available, but a local guide can take you to authentic eateries and markets for a personalized food experience.
Some farms on the outskirts of Harare offer tours, though these are generally private arrangements or part of agricultural tourism initiatives.
This event, along with local beer festivals, occurs periodically in Harare.
Check local event listings in newspapers or online guides for dates and details.
Traditional Zimbabwean dishes maintain consistency year-round. Certain fruits are seasonal and appear at specific times of the year.
Enjoy fresh, ripe mangoes, avocados, bananas, guavas, and pawpaws depending on the season.
Meals are often shared, notably in homes or less formal settings, creating a communal way of eating.
"Sadza," a thick porridge from maize meal, forms the foundation of many meals, typically accompanied by "relish."
The informal outdoor braai spots showcase an unique dining concept where locals gather for grilled meat and socializing.
Always ask about ingredients for dietary needs. Local guides can elevate your food exploration.
