Continuing our series of dining in Africa, we look at the Namibian capital, Windhoek. More and more visitors are becoming aware of the unique attractions of Namibia as a safari destination. Coupled (as with many other African cities) with an increase in economic activity due to mining exploration and direct flights from Europe, Windhoek is prospering.
This increased prosperity brings more choice. Nowhere is too far to travel in this small (and clean) city of 330,000 but be warned when you go out to eat, vegetarianism is not common! Meat and seafood are the principal dishes.
In no particular order our top 5 restaurants are:
JOE'S BEER HOUSE
160 Nelson Mandela Avenue. Vegetarians stay away! Like Carnivore in Nairobi and elsewhere, meat and especially game meat is the menu. Kudu, springbok, zebra are the specialities. Popular with tourists and locals alike. The decor is best described as an African bush lodge transported to the city.
Information link: Joe's Beerhouse Windhoek
RESTAURANT GATHEMANN
175 Independence Avenue. A long-established German restaurant in an old, colonial-era building in the centre of town. One of Namibia's top chefs Urs Gamma has been presiding over Gathemann's for the last twenty years and cooks local ingredients in the German tradition.
Information link: Restaurant Gathemann
NICE
2 Mozart Street. Or the Namibian Institute for Culinary Excellence. Do not be put off by the staid title. Situated in rather hip and contemporary surroundings which hold a selection of private dining rooms, lounges, and courtyards, aspiring Namibian chefs cook contemporary Namibian dishes with Mediterranean and Asian influences.
Information link: Nice
AM WEINBERG RESTAURANT
13 Jan Jonker Road. Formerly a vineyard with one of Namibia's oldest colonial buildings (1901), the restaurant was opened in 2004. It enjoys from its terrace, magnificent views over the Klein Windhoek Valley. The style of food is again; German derived but utilizing the freshest local ingredients. Highly recommended.
Information link: Am Weinberg Restaurant
O PORTUGA
321 Sam Nujoma Drive. As the name suggests, the food is Portuguese inspired combining with local influences, especially from Angola. Probably one of the best restaurants in town for fish dishes as well as vegetarian options. The decor is pure Portuguese. Situated on the airport road not far from Am Weinberg. Popular with locals which are always a good sign.
Information link: O'Portuga Restaurant
Top 5 restaurants in Windhoek by Uyaphi.com
Onguma Trails Camp
Nestled on the doorstep of Etosha National Park, Onguma Trails Camp offers a truly enchanting escape for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Surrounded by pristine nature, the camp provides the perfect base to explore the incredible biodiversity of the region, home to a stunning array of species, including elephants, lions, and rhinos.
Designed to blend comfort with adventure, Onguma Trails Camp features well-appointed accommodations that harmonise with the natural surroundings. From waking up to the sounds of the wilderness to experiencing breathtaking sunsets over the savannah, every moment here is infused with the magic of Africa.
Chobe River Camp
A stay at Chobe River Camp in the stunning Zambezi region of Namibia is an escape into untamed beauty and serene tranquillity. Nestled along the banks of the iconic Chobe River, the camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in nature’s finest.
The camp’s 20 tented suites harmoniously blend rustic charm with modern comforts, designed to provide an authentic yet luxurious safari experience. Each suite reflects the natural essence of the landscape while ensuring warmth and privacy.
Windhoek Country Club
The Windhoek Country Club stands as the number one destination for luxury and entertainment throughout Windhoek, Namibia. The hotel stands out as a popular choice because it merges luxury with comfort. The hotel provides perfect relaxation through its attractive rooms and professional service alongside its peaceful desert environment.
The resort sits near the city centre yet provides guests with an ideal escape into tranquillity. The combination of a golf course and casino at the hotel site makes it an excellent choice for business and leisure travellers.
Skeleton Coast Shipwreck Lodge
Situated in the iconic Skeleton Coast National Park, the Skeleton Coast Shipwreck Lodge offers a unique escape into one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. Imagine towering sand dunes, dramatic coastlines, and the icy Atlantic Ocean set against wind-swept plains.
Shipwreck Lodge is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience that immerses you in the heart of nature’s grandeur. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create an unforgettable adventure, blending luxury with the rugged charm of the Skeleton Coast.
Swakopmund Sands Guesthouse
Swakopmund Sands is situated within the beautiful Swakopmund region of Namibia, where guests can enjoy comfortable coastal living. The welcoming resort provides stunning views of the Namib Desert and Atlantic Ocean from its location, which generates a peaceful atmosphere for its guests.
Its strategic location in the centre of Swakopmund allows visitors to explore the charming town, which combines German colonial architecture with Namibian hospitality.
The Pearls Beach Pods
The Pearls Beach Pods stand on Namibia's desert coastline near Swakopmund as an attractive destination for travellers. The pod accommodations at The Pearls Beach Pods deliver both comfortable relaxation and exciting outdoor adventures to travellers who want peaceful accommodations while discovering Namibian natural attractions.
A visit to The Pearls Beach Pods will deliver an unforgettable encounter for every occasion. The modern pods at The Pearls Beach Pods provide the ideal retreat for families on safari, couples on honeymoon, or anyone seeking beach relaxation.
Kalahari Anib Lodge
In the heart of the Kalahari Desert, Kalahari Anib Lodge offers an unforgettable escape. Surrounded by red sands and endless horizons, it's the perfect base to experience the desert's unique beauty.
At Kalahari Anib Lodge, guests can enjoy warm Namibian hospitality and activities to explore the region's natural beauty. Go on a game drive to spot wildlife, take a peaceful sunset walk, or relax by the pool and soak in the desert's calm.
Nambwa Tented Lodge
Located in the stunning Bwabwata National Park, Nambwa Tented Lodge combines luxury with wilderness. Set along the Kwando River, this exclusive retreat is surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Zambezi region.
Here, guests can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of nature, from the gentle rustle of the trees to the calls of the abundant wildlife that roam freely in the area. The lodge seamlessly blends comfort with adventure, offering an authentic African safari experience.