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Africa’s Top Restaurants: Global Rankings Unveil the Finest Culinary Destinations

Olaoluwa Akinade

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Africa's Top Restaurants: Global Rankings Unveil the Finest Culinary Destinations

The culinary landscape of Africa is a rich tapestry of diversity and flavor, presenting a delightful blend of traditional delicacies and inventive culinary marvels.

From the northern regions, infused with the influences of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, to the aromatic stews of West Africa, the East’s vibrant fusion of Indian and Asian flavors, and the unique gastronomic blend inspired by indigenous and European elements in Southern Africa – the continent’s food culture caters to a wide range of palates.

Africa’s Top Restaurants: The Finest Culinary Destinations

La Colombe

Cuisine: Contemporary with French flair
Chef: James Gaag
Pricing: $$$
Seating: 70 and 12 at Gazebo
Opening Hours: Daily 12 – 1.30pm and 6pm – 10pm

Nestled on Silvermist estate, La Colombe offers a journey of anticipation as you ascend the winding road. The cuisine is immediately delicious, prioritizing flavor without overthinking or overcomplicating. Experience the quiet charm and delectable offerings at this Cape Town gem.

- Address: Silvermist Wine Estate, Main Road Constantia Nek, Cape Town 7806 South Africa
- Contact Information:
  - Phone: +27 21 794 2390
  - Email: Send a message
  - Web: La Colombe Restaurant

The Ruined Garden

Cuisine: Moroccan
Chef: Robert Johnstone
Pricing: $$
Seating: 40
Opening Hours: Daily 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Situated in the medina of Fez, The Ruined Garden offers an authentic Moroccan experience. With a focus on walking accessibility in the car-free medina, the restaurant presents a unique blend of ambiance and traditional Moroccan cuisine.

- Address: Riad Idrissy Medina of Fez Fez, Morocco
- Contact Information:
  - Phone: +212 649 191 410
  - Email: Send a message
  - Web: The Ruined Garden Fez

Wolfgat

Cuisine: Seafood
Chef: Kobus van der Merwe
Pricing: $$$
Seating: 20
Opening Hours: Lunch: Wed-Sat 12:30 PM, Sun 12:00 PM; Dinner: Fri-Sat 7:00 PM

Wolfgat offers a unique dining experience with a focus on indigenous ingredients. From sustainable seafood to local lamb and venison, each dish reflects the coastal location. Kobus van der Merwe’s tasting menu is a culinary journey inspired by the surrounding landscape.

- Address: 10 Sampson St Paternoster, Saldanha Bay Municipality 7381 South Africa
- Contact Information:
  - Phone: [Not provided]
  - Email: Send a message
  - Web: Wolfgat

Fyn

Cuisine: Contemporary
Chef: Peter Tempelhoff
Pricing: $$$
Seating: 35
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM, Sat 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Fyn challenges culinary boundaries, offering contemporary South African cuisine. Located on the 5th floor of Speakers Corner, the restaurant invites diners to embark on a flavor discovery journey, pushing the boundaries of taste.

- Address: 5th Floor Speakers Corner, 37 Parliament St Cape Town City Centre Cape Town, South Africa
- Contact Information:
  - Phone: +27 021 286 2733
  - Email: Send a message
  - Web: Fyn Cape Town

Sushi Mitsuki

Cuisine: Japanese
Chef: Kazu Onuki
Pricing: $$$
Seating: 35
Opening Hours: Tue-Sun: 12–11 p.m., Mon: Closed

Sushi Mitsuki brings authentic Japanese sushi culture to Nairobi, Kenya. Located at the prestigious Kempinski Hotel, the restaurant aims to expand the genuine sushi experience in Africa, offering a limited seating arrangement for an intimate encounter with Japanese culinary excellence.

- Address: Chiromo Rd Nairobi, Kenya
- Contact Information:
  - Phone: +254 746 000888
  - Email: Send a message
  - Web: Sushi Mitsuki

Inka Steakhouse

Cuisine: Steakhouse
Chef: Nicole Ansoni
Pricing: $$
Seating: 35
Opening Hours: Sat, Mon, Tue, Fri: 11 AM–12 AM, Sun: 11 AM–9 PM, Wed-Thu: 8 AM–11 PM

Inka Steakhouse in Kigali, Rwanda, offers a fine dining experience focused on promoting Rwandan beef and African produce. With professional preparation and a commitment to excellence, the steakhouse provides a memorable culinary journey.

- Address: 2a, KG 605 St Kigali, Rwanda
- Contact Information:
  - Phone: +250 780 302 666
  - Email: Send a message
  - Web: INKA Steakhouse

The View

Cuisine: Mediterranean
Chef: Aris Athanasiou
Pricing: $$$$
Seating: 35
Opening Hours: Tue-Sun: 12:00 noon – 8:00 pm, Mon: Closed

Soar with the Eagles at The View, Nairobi’s signature revolving restaurant on the 24th floor. Offering smart-casual dining, the restaurant provides a 360-degree culinary orbit with stunning skyline views, delivering mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine.

- Address: Mkungu Close, Westlands Nairobi 49719 Kenya
- Contact Information:
  - Phone: +254 709 548000
  - Email: Send a message
  - Web: The View

Graze Steakhouse

Cuisine: Steakhouse
Chef: John Muriithi
Pricing: $$
Seating: 30
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 12–11 PM

Graze Steakhouse at Sankara Nairobi indulges your inner gourmand with a modern New York-style steakhouse experience. Recognized as the World Luxury Restaurant Awards Continent winner, Graze promises a delightful fusion of aged beef, seafood, and tempting desserts.

- Address: Woodvale Grove Sankara Hotel Nairobi 00100 Kenya
- Contact Information:
  - Phone: +254 20 4208000
  - Email: Send a message
  - Web: Graze Steakhouse

Thai Chi

Cuisine: Thai-Asian
Chef: Ms. Nelius
Pricing: $$$
Seating: 35
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat: 12:00 noon – 3:00pm, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

Named the most authentic Thai restaurant in East Africa, Thai Chi offers delectable Thai specialties in a traditional Thai setting. With experienced chefs from Thailand, the restaurant provides an authentic and exquisite dining experience.

- Address: Kenyatta Avenue & Kimathi Street Nairobi, Kenya
- Contact Information:
  - Phone: +254 709 111 000
  - Email: Send a message
  - Web: Thai Chi

About Thyme

Cuisine: Contemporary
Chef: Deborah Swai
Pricing: $$$
Seating: 70
Opening Hours: Tue-Fri: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm, Sat: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm, Sun: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm, Mon: Closed; Brunch: Sat, Sun, Public Holidays 10:00 am – 1:00 pm; Kitchen closes at 10:00 pm (6:00 pm on Sun); Last orders for bar 10:30 pm (6:30 pm on Sun)

About Thyme, nestled in lush surroundings, provides a unique al fresco dining experience in Nairobi. With a tranquil setting since 2005, the restaurant offers imaginative dishes inspired from around the world, ensuring a consistent and quality dining experience.

- Address: Eldama Ravine Rd Nairobi, Kenya
- Contact Information:
  - Phone: 0721 850 026
  - Email: Send a message
  - Web: About Thyme

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Africa’s Finest Hotel Dining Destinations

Angama Mara – Kenya

Embark on a culinary adventure at Angama Mara in Kenya, where the food experience introduces a unique East African vocabulary.

Indulge in ‘bitings’ for snacks and savor ‘kuku’ (chicken) hot off the grill in the Maasai boma, accompanied by an ice-cold Tusker beer.

Drawing inspiration from classic safari cuisine, the menu features steaks and burgers from grass-fed Kenyan cattle, fresh vegetables from the Kenyan Highlands, and delectable seafood from the Indian Ocean coastline.

Tea time offers treats like scones, fruitcake, and cucumber sandwiches, while the drink selection spans from gin cocktails to a diverse wine list.

Sasakwa – Tanzania

Savor the grandeur of Sasakwa in Tanzania, where silver service meets breathtaking views.

Enjoy breakfast with perfect crepes, fresh fruit, and baked bread, followed by delicate chocolate or mint macarons for afternoon tea.

Dinner boasts dishes like mango salsa on grilled lobster or the traditional Swahili ‘mtori’ (beef and green bananas).

The extensive wine cellar ensures a perfect pairing with over 220 wines stored in impeccable conditions.

The Olive Exclusive – Namibia

During a safari to Etosha or Damaraland, Windhoek’s The Olive Exclusive guesthouse becomes a culinary haven.

Start with a sundowner at the fire pit before indulging in fresh oysters, African salmon sashimi, or a beetroot and goat’s cheese salad.

Mains feature butter-braised fillet or slow-roasted Karoo lamb with preserved figs. Cap off the experience with a chocolate and pistachio semifreddo and granadilla brulee.

The Oberoi – Mauritius

Immerse yourself in the paradise of Mauritius at The Oberoi’s The Restaurant, offering tranquil views of Port Louis.

Explore Mauritian and Indian dishes such as fish moilee with coconut milk or scampi and taro cake. Desserts showcase tropical delights like bananas, pineapples, and coconut in inventive ravioli, sorbets, and soufflés.

On special nights, enjoy a beach barbecue at On The Rocks or historic ambiance at the Gunpowder Room, featuring a diverse wine list.

The Royal Livingstone – Zambia

Situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, The Royal Livingstone Hotel in Zambia provides unparalleled views of Victoria Falls.

Experience locally sourced dishes with influences from traditional Zambian meals and modern European creations.

Enjoy meals like free-range poitrine de poulet supreme or braised lamb shoulder, and sophisticated snacking during High Tea. The Travellers Bar offers an exclusive gin menu, including the specially produced Mundambi Gin.

Cape Grace – Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Grace, located on the V&A Waterfront, offers stunning views of Signal Hill.

Signal restaurant draws inspiration from centuries of cultural influences, offering unique dishes like rooibos-infused salmon fish cakes and bobotie-spiced springbok.

The Bascule Bar downstairs features a selection of over 500 premier whiskies from around the world.

Delaire Graff – Cape Winelands, South Africa

Experience ‘bistro chic’ at Delaire Graff, where South African classics meet sophisticated gastronomical techniques.

Indulge in fresh Atlantic oysters, Karoo lamb neck with homemade spiced sausage, and a parfait with maple bacon gelato. Delaire Graff is renowned for its exceptional wines reflecting the sea and mountain terroir.

Le Quartier Francais – Franschhoek, South Africa

The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Francais in Franschhoek stands out as one of the most innovative restaurants in the Cape winelands.

Set aside time for the eight-course tasting and wine-pairing menu, featuring whimsical twists on South African staples like maize-inspired corn bread and traditional ‘potjie’ with sweetcorn.

The Saxon – Johannesburg, South Africa

The Saxon in Johannesburg, a former residence of Nelson Mandela, houses the bold and innovative X restaurant overseen by Luke Dale-Roberts.

Enjoy unexpected combinations like grapefruit salmon or pea mousse with morel jelly on the seven-course tasting menu.

The casual Qunu restaurant, named after Mandela’s birthplace, offers excellent wines and well-prepared dishes.

Bartholomeus Klip – Cape Winelands, South Africa

Escape to Bartholomeus Klip for an authentic and laidback atmosphere.

Engage in cooking classes featuring elevated ‘farm cuisine’ with local produce. Indulge in classic comfort food like kabeljou (fish) or succulent lamb neck in the Victorian-era dining room, accompanied by full-bodied Pinotage. Experience the joy of hands-on culinary exploration during your stay.

Across Africa, from the untamed wilderness to vibrant cities, hotels and lodges are elevating their culinary offerings, providing guests with a taste of local culture reinterpreted for the 21st century.