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 specialties. Popular with tourists and locals alike. The decor is best described as an African bush lodge transported to the city.
- GATHEMANN'S; 175 Independence Avenue. A long established German restaurant in an old, colonial era building in the center 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.
- NICE Restaurant and Bar; 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Top 5 restaurants in Windhoek
Africa's Most Luxurious Lodges
It might come as a surprise to many that some of the most luxurious and desired accommodation establishments on earth are found right here in Africa. This is our showcase of the most luxurious options that we have on offer.
Best Baths in Africa
You can never be as relaxed as you are as in a bath. Now image that bath having one fantastic view out over the plains of Africa with wildlife and birdlife passing you by. That is what this page is all about, simply "The best Baths in Africa".
Star Beds in Africa
One of the newer and more exciting options safari lodges and camps throughout Africa are starting to offer is what is called a "Star Bed". Essentially a luxurious platform in the wilds overlooking a vantage point and open to the stars.
Kruger Family Friendly Lodges
These are our favourite lodges and camps in and around the Kruger Park that offer family-friendly facilities and activities. Most lodges say that they take kids but there is only a handful that have the facilities to keep them busy, these lodges offer daily activities, kids safari options and baby sittings options.
Remote Lodges in Africa
As always one will find an intrepid soul who has taken the plunge and built a lodge or camp in what can only be described as the "Middle of Nowhere". This page is dedicated to those who are wanting to experience isolation like no other.
Best Spas in the Kruger
Life on safari is not always about game drives and walks 24/7, there should always be a bit of relaxation time, and this is where a Spa comes into play. Take a few hours off to indulge in a tranquil Spa treatment at one of these excellent lodges. All of these lodges offer in-house facilities and a broad range of treatments.