Top 4 Places to Eat in Moshi

A zebra stands amidst lush greenery in Tanzania's Kilimanjaro region, showcasing natural beauty.
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Moshi's dining scene offers a blend of local Tanzanian flavors and diverse international cuisine, providing satisfying options for various travelers.

1. Union Cafe

Cuisine: Cafe, Western, Tanzanian coffee

Union Cafe is a welcoming spot in the heart of Moshi, known for its quality Tanzanian coffee and a comfortable atmosphere. It is a good place to enjoy a range of items, from well-made coffee and homemade cheesecakes to a selection of Western-style dishes, including sandwiches, pizzas, and omelettes. The café belongs to the Kilimanjaro Native Cooperation Union, which produces organic Arabica coffee from Mount Kilimanjaro's slopes. This makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a piece of local coffee culture.

Price: Coffee: 4,000-12,000 TSH (~$1.60-$4.80 USD). Cakes: 6,000-8,000 TSH (~$2.40-$3.20 USD). Main meals are generally more expensive but offer good value for quality.

Getting There: Located right in the middle of Moshi town, Union Cafe is easily accessible on foot from most central accommodations.

2. El Rancho Kilimanjaro Restaurant

Cuisine: Indian, Pakistani

El Rancho Kilimanjaro Restaurant serves authentic Indian and Pakistani cuisine, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Guests can expect a diverse menu with flavorful dishes like butter naan, butter chicken, and various kebabs. The atmosphere is vibrant, suitable for families or couples looking for a rich dining experience. The team provides attentive service.

Price: Mains typically range from 10,000-20,000 TSH (~$4-$8 USD), offering good value for the quality and portion sizes.

Getting There: Situated in the Shanty Town area, considered a wealthier district, it is often a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride from the main Moshi center.

3. Taj Mahal

Cuisine: Indian street food, Local Tanzanian

Taj Mahal offers a very local and affordable dining experience, focusing on grilled street food with an Indian influence. It is a modest establishment where cooks prepare food outdoors, and guests can sit at tables along the sidewalk. It is a favorite among locals for its very low prices and tasty quick bites like grilled chicken, mishkaki (skewers), chipsi mayai (chip omelette), and Zanzibari pizza. It's an excellent spot to experience everyday Tanzanian food culture.

Price: Very low, with many dishes costing under 5,000 TSH (~$2 USD).

Getting There: This restaurant is centrally located, often found opposite accommodations like We Travel Hostel, making it easy to walk to from the town center.

4. Indoitaliano Restaurant

Cuisine: Indian, Italian fusion

Indoitaliano Restaurant presents a unique fusion of Indian and Italian cuisines, providing travelers with a distinct dining option. It is well-regarded for its simple yet delicious dishes, with many praising the quality of its pasta and pizzas. The restaurant offers a good alternative for those craving familiar Western flavors with an Indian twist. The service might vary, but the food consistently receives positive feedback.

Price: Mid-range. Pizzas and pasta dishes are typically priced between 15,000-25,000 TSH (~$6-$10 USD).

Getting There: Located on New Street, near Buffalo Hotel, it is easily reachable by walking or a short taxi ride from central Moshi.