A Taste of Home far from Home
Dar es Salaam has always held a special place in my heart. Every school holiday, I’d eagerly anticipate my visits to my mother’s hometown. Staying with my mamaji (mother’s elder brother), I’d spend countless hours exploring the city’s vibrant streets. Like my mother, I’ve always been passionate about travel and discovering new tastes. While she visited relatives, I’d embark on solo food adventures, savouring the city’s incredible street food scene.
Dar es Salaam is a foodie’s paradise! This bustling Tanzanian city is packed with flavours from every corner. Imagine wandering down colourful streets, your senses overwhelmed by the smells of sizzling meats, sweet treats, and exotic spices. That’s the magic of Dar es Salaam’s street food scene. That’s how I dove into and discovered the best of the best.
My love affair with Dar es Salaam’s street food began with Sururu. The smoky aroma of grilled beef, the soft bite of ajam roti, with small pieces of grilled sweet plantain, and the fiery kick of their special tomato chutney known as the rojo create a symphony of flavours that still tantalizes my taste buds always. I remember countless evenings spent with family, sharing plates of Sururu while chatting about our day.
1. Sururu: A Street Food Icon
Sururu is a Dar es Salaam staple. Tender, grilled beef cubes are served with ajam roti (Indian bread), charcoal-grilled sweet plantain, and spicy tomato chutney. This simple yet satisfying dish is a must-try for any visitor.
- Best enjoyed at Original Ali’s Sururu, various street vendors downtown Only available after 5-6 pm.
- Price: Approximately 5,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($2.17) for two. Per stick 50-100sh.
Beyond Sururu, Dar es Salaam offers a world of flavours. So let’s dive into more street food of Dar es Salaam. The spicy kick of Gajjar Chicken, the tangy delight of Sekela Chicken, and the refreshing sweetness of Khungu juice are just a few examples of the city’s diverse culinary offerings.
2. Gajjar Chicken: Fiery Flavour
Gajjar Chicken is a spicy BBQ chicken delight that will tantalize your taste buds. The perfect blend of spices and smoky char makes this dish a local favourite.
- Best enjoyed at Mamboz Siz Grill, various street vendors.
- Price: Approximately 20,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($4.34) for two.
3. Sekela Chicken: Tangy Twist to Regular
Sekela Chicken offers a refreshing twist on grilled chicken. Marinated in a tangy lemon-based sauce, it’s a delightful combination of flavours.
- Best enjoyed at Ali’s Sekela Chicken, various street vendors.
- Price: Approximately 8,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($3.47) for two.
Gajjar Chicken vs. Sekela Chicken
Gajjar Chicken vs. Sekela Chicken
While Gajjar and Sekela chicken are popular grilled chicken dishes, they have distinct flavours. Gajjar chicken packs a spicy punch with its blend of different red chilli powders and aromatic spices and is redder in colour, creating a bold and flavourful experience.
On the other hand, Sekela chicken offers a tangy twist with its lemon-yogurt-based marinade, providing a refreshing contrast to the spicier options and a more natural tandoor flavour.
4. Khungu Juice: Tropical Refreshment
While you might have had many fresh fruit juices this is something you might have never had anywhere else in the world. The fruit is commonly known as Khungu in Swahili, Indian Almond or sea almond in English. It has a sour sweet tarty flesh usually dark purple which is then cut and blended with sugar syrup to give the iconic Khungu juice. It’s the perfect accompaniment to any street food meal.
- Best enjoyed at Abbas Cold House or Neema Cold House, various juice stalls.
- Price: Approximately 3,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($1.30) for two.
5. Cassata Ice Cream: Creamy Indulgence
Even though Dar es Salaam has some good and very old Ice cream Parlours like the Sno Cream or the Snoopy’s which serve good soft icecreams (which you can try), I would recommend you to try Dar es Salaam’s Cassata ice cream, which has been a local delicacy since it was first introduced.
Made with fresh cream, and coconut oil, and topped with chocolate sauce and crushed peanuts, it’s a rich and satisfying treat which is served in a block, not too soft but has the right amount of creamy ice crystals which give it a distinct flavour and texture.
- Best enjoyed at Nazir Paan House, Snoopy’s.
- Price: Approximately 10,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($4.34) for two.
6. Urojo Mix: Flavourful Soup
After Sururu, one of my favourite street foods, Urojo Mix is like a hug in a bowl. Urojo Mix is a hearty soup packed with lentils, potatoes, and crispy bhajias. It’s a popular choice for a satisfying meal. The Zanzibar Mix includes additional ingredients like sururu and radish leaves.
- Best enjoyed at Khenge Mix, Chai on Wheels, Tanga Bora, and various street vendors.
- Price: Approximately 5,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($2.17) for two.
7. Roasted Muhogo/ Sweet Potato: Simple Goodness
Roasted Muhogo (cassava) is a classic street food snack. Which you will find while you are strolling the streets of Dar es Salaam, mainly in the downtown (Kisutu and Upanga). The sweet and earthy flavours of the roasted cassava on charcoal are complemented by a tangy kachumbari (tomato and onion salsa) which should not be missed at all.
The Hawkers cut the Cassava which sometimes also has Roasted sweet Potatoes if you are lucky, into half, sprinkle some salt and red chilli powder, and pour a ladle full of the kachumbari.
- Best enjoyed at Various street vendors.
- Price: Approximately 500-3,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($1.30) for two.
8. Kitale Pockets: Organic and Unique
Kitale Pockets are the perfect grab-and-go snack. The real name of this??? Seriously I still haven’t known, all we have called it is Kitale. These are the inner shells of a tender coconut which is shaved until its core shell can be consumed. The Kitale man cuts the baby coconut and gives you to drink the coconut water, he then fills it with a delicious mashed potato layered with scotch bonnet and coconut chutney until filled to the brim. These can be eaten along with the baby coconut shell and it’s addictive. A must-try!
- Best enjoyed at Various street vendors, especially around OysterBay Coco Beach.
- Price: Approximately 5,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($2.61) for two.
9. Fried Cassava and Sweet Potato: Crispy Delight
Fried Cassava and Sweet Potato is a simple yet addictive snack.
Just like the above Roasted Cassava Root, these are instead deep fried in oil until they have a crispy exterior and soft interior making it a popular choice.
It is then cut open in half, and topped with thinly sliced cabbage, tomato, and onion kachumbari and tomato sauce or chilli sauce. This will make you lick your fingers apart.
- Best enjoyed at Various street vendors.
- Price: Approximately 5,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($2.17) for two.
10. Exotic Fruits: Tropical Treasure
Dar es Salaam is a fruit lover’s paradise. From the weird and wonderful to the classic tropical flavours, you’ll find it all here.
Dar es Salaam offers a variety of exotic fruits, including durian, ambarella, rambutan, mangosteen, gulabi (rose apple), sweet lime, oranges, heart of the palm tree, Indian almond fruit, and pineapples.
- Best enjoyed at Various fruit vendors.
- Price: Varies depending on the fruit.
11. Mishkaki: Grilled Perfection
Other East African specialty includes Mishkaki and Nundu (beef fat and lamb fat). These are Tender marinated meat (usually beef or chicken) grilled on skewers. Often served with chips (fries) and kachumbari.
- Best enjoyed at Various street vendors, especially near beach areas.
- Price: Approximately 5,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($2.17) for two skewers.
12. Chapati Rolls: Versatile and Delicious
Soft, flatbread filled with your choice of fillings, such as beef, chicken, or vegetables. A popular and affordable option. My favourite is just a simple sprinkle of sugar on freshly hot chapatis, rolled and had with chai. As we locals call it ” Chapo and Chai”
- Best enjoyed at Various street vendors and cafes.
- Price: Approximately 3,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($1.30) for one roll.
13. Vitumbua: Sweet Fried Treats
Crispy, sweet treats made from rice flour and coconut milk. Enjoy them hot with honey or syrup.
- Best enjoyed at Street vendors and local markets.
- Price: Approximately 2,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($0.90) for several pieces.
14. Bhajia: Crispy and Savoury
Bhajias are like the crispy, flavorful cousins of falafel. They’re made from lentils and other veggies, deep-fried to golden perfection. You can find them on their own or as part of a larger meal.
- Description: Deep-fried lentil fritters, often served with chutney or as a side dish.
- Best enjoyed at Various street vendors and cafes.
- Price: Approximately 1,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($0.43) for several pieces.
15. Vibibi: A Coastal Delight
Vibibi is a crispy treat from the coast. It’s made with overnight-soaked rice, coconut milk and fresh coconut flesh, eggs, and sugar. Trust me, it’s an addictive pancake.
A sweet snack usually sold in the mornings or evenings and it’s the perfect combo with a cup of chai.
- Best enjoyed in Coastal areas and local markets.
- Price: Approximately 1,500 Tanzanian Shillings ($0.65) for several pieces.
16. Maandazi: Sweet and Fluffy
Maandazi are like little clouds of sweetness.Just like their close cousin Kenyan Mahamri. These soft buns are perfect with a cup of chai or usually the heavenly combo with mbaazi (pigeon peas cooked in coconut milk). The typical local breakfast of Coastal cities of East Africa. Soft, sweet buns or doughnuts like made from white flour and coconut milk. They’re often enjoyed with chai (tea) or as a snack.
- Best enjoyed at Local bakeries and street vendors.
- Price: Approximately 1,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($0.43) for one piece.
Mahamri vs. Maadazi: What’s the Diff?
Mahamri and maadazi might look similar, but they’re actually quite different. Mahamri are fluffy and soft, with a slightly sweet taste thanks to the coconut milk and cardamom used in the dough. They’re often enjoyed with a cup of chai.
Maadazi, on the other hand, are denser and chewier. They’re typically made with baking powder and don’t have the same sweetness as mahamri. Both are delicious in their own way, so why not try both and see which one you prefer?
17. Sugarcane Juice with Lemon and Ginger: Refreshing Elixir
I know Sugarcane juice is not something new, but here in East African coastal cities, it is the ultimate thirst quencher. It’s naturally sweet and perfect on a hot day especially when squeezed with a piece of lime and ginger giving it a sweet tangy flavour with the warmth spicy hug from the ginger
Best enjoyed at Juice stalls and street vendors.
- Price: Approximately 1,500 Tanzanian Shillings ($0.65) for a glass.
Alright, so I’ve given you the lowdown on some seriously tasty street food. But let’s be real, there’s a whole bunch more stuff to try out. I’m talking about the real, local eats that locals go crazy for. Let’s dive into some of those.
I’ve tried to cover the most popular street eats in Dar, but trust me, there’s a whole world of food out there. Locals know spots that tourists don’t, with dishes that are off the beaten path. Let’s dive into some of the classic grub that locals swear by.
While I’ve covered a good chunk of Dar es Salaam’s street food scene, there’s a whole world of local flavours waiting to be discovered. These dishes are staples in many Tanzanian homes and offer a true taste of the country. Let’s dive into some more classic options.
18. Ugali and Stew: A Hearty Staple
Ugali, that thick, starchy stuff, is a total staple here. It’s usually served with a stew packed with meat, veggies, or fish. Trust me, it’s a filling and satisfying meal.
A classic East African meal consisting of a only course of maize flour cooked in water (ugali) served with a flavorful stew made from meat, vegetables, or fish.
- Best enjoyed at Local restaurants and street food stalls.
- Price: Varies depending on the ingredients and location.
19. Pilau: Aromatic Rice Dish
Pilau is like the fancy cousin of regular rice. It’s all spiced up and packed with flavour. You can find it with meat, seafood, or just veggies. Make sure you have it with their special kachumbari and sometimes also cooked chili chutney known as pilipili ya kukaanga.
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood.
- Best enjoyed at Local restaurants and street food stalls.
- Price: Varies depending on the ingredients and location.
20. Nyama Choma: Grilled to Perfection
Nyama Choma is grilled meat perfection. Think tender, juicy beef or goat, slathered in tasty spices. It’s the ultimate street food vibe.
Tender, grilled meat, usually beef or goat, marinated in just salt and cooked over charcoal. Often served with chips (fries) and kachumbari.
- Best enjoyed at Outdoor barbecue stalls and restaurants.
- Price: Varies depending on the meat and size of the portion.
21. Chai: A Refreshing Brew
Chai, or tea, is like the national drink here. It’s strong, sweet, and perfect for any time of day. A strong, flavorful black tea, often served with milk and sugar.
- Best enjoyed at Tea shops and street vendors.
- Price: Affordable and varies depending on the location.
22. African Coffee: Bold and Rich
If you like your coffee bold and strong, African Tanzanian coffee is your jam. It’s a real eye-opener! Of course, you can’t go without having coffee from the best coffee growers in the World! Can You?
A strong, dark coffee with a bold flavour. Often served black or with a little sugar or with a sweet treat called kashata which is eaten bit by bit after sipping your bitter strong coffee.
- Best enjoyed at Coffee shops and local cafes but best when you find a guy on the street with a kettle and charcoal stove.
- Price: Varies depending on the coffee beans and location.
23. Chips Mayai: The Classic Combo
Chips Mayai is Tanzania’s version of comfort food. It’s crispy fries mixed with a fluffy egg scramble – what’s not to love?
Chips Mayai, or “chips and eggs,” is Tanzania’s version of comfort food. Imagine crispy fries mixed with a fluffy egg scramble – it’s pure bliss. This dish is a total crowd-pleaser and you’ll find it everywhere.
- Best enjoyed at Local cafes, roadside stalls, and even some restaurants.
- Price: Approximately 3,000 to 5,000 Tanzanian Shillings ($1.30 – $2.17) for a decent portion.
Dar es Salaam’s street food scene is a vibrant and exciting culinary adventure. With a diverse range of flavours and options, there’s something to satisfy every palate. So, next time you’re in this bustling city, be sure to explore the streets and discover the hidden gems that await.
How did you find my recommendations? Let me know in the comments below!
I hope you love reading about my recommendations and experiences as much as I do when writing for you all!
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