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
Kazile Island Lodge
Nestled in the heart of the Zambezi region, Kazile Island Lodge offers an unparalleled escape into nature's tranquillity. Surrounded by the rich biodiversity of Bwabwata National Park, the lodge provides a front-row seat to the breathtaking beauty of Namibia's wilderness.
With luxury tents overlooking the Kwando River, guests enjoy stunning views of the water and its abundant wildlife. From the distant sounds of hippos to elephants crossing nearby, every moment at Kazile Island Lodge connects you to the wild African landscape.
The Windhoek Luxury Suites
Located in the heart of Namibia's Windhoek region, The Windhoek Luxury Suites combine sophistication with natural beauty. Guests enjoy a tranquil oasis with modern amenities and African-inspired design for an unforgettable stay.
The Windhoek Luxury Suites serve as a perfect base for discovering Namibia's extraordinary beauty. From here, guests can easily venture out to iconic wildlife destinations or immerse themselves in the local culture of Windhoek.
Elegant Guesthouse
Located in the heart of Windhoek, Namibia's capital, Elegant Guesthouse offers a peaceful retreat with modern amenities and warm, personalized service. Set in a quiet, leafy neighbourhood, it's the perfect base for exploring the area.
Each thoughtfully designed room boasts stylish décor, air conditioning, and all the essentials for a restful experience. Guests are invited to enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning, as well as lush outdoor spaces perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration.
Habitas Namibia
Set in the serene Windhoek region, Habitas Namibia offers a unique escape where luxury meets wilderness. This eco-friendly sanctuary blends with nature, creating a peaceful space for adventure and relaxation.
The lodge offers elegant, sustainable accommodations and activities like guided nature walks, wildlife photography, and cultural experiences with local tribes. It's a destination that delivers unforgettable moments in the heart of Africa.
Fish River Lodge
Nestled on the dramatic edge of the world's second-largest canyon, The Fish River Lodge offers a truly unforgettable Namibian escape. Located in the heart of the Fish River Canyon region, the lodge combines breathtaking natural beauty with exceptional comfort.
With panoramic views and minimalist architecture that blends into the rugged landscape, it invites guests to connect with nature in serene elegance. Its location is ideal for exploring one of Southern Africa's most remarkable geological wonders.
Onguma Forest Camp
On the edge of Etosha National Park, Onguma Forest Camp is perfect for an unforgettable honeymoon. Blending luxury and natural beauty, it offers couples a serene setting to relax and reconnect. The spacious, elegant accommodations ensure comfort and privacy, while panoramic wilderness views create a magical atmosphere.
At Onguma Forest Camp, every moment is immersed in the wonders of nature. Wake up to the soft sounds of the forest, enjoy romantic sunsets over the savannah, and marvel at the vibrant wildlife that calls this region home.
Etosha King Nehale
Located on the edge of Etosha National Park, Etosha King Nehale Lodge offers a memorable escape into Namibia's stunning wildlife and landscapes. Overlooking plains and waterholes visited by majestic animals, this Lodge combines tranquillity and adventure, perfect for a honeymoon or getaway.
Blending modern luxury with traditional Namibian design, the Lodge features spacious suites with all the comforts for a relaxing stay. Each suite immerses guests in the surrounding beauty with private plunge pools and décor inspired by the region's rich culture.
Ohorongo Tented Camp
Nestled in the heart of Namibia's breathtaking Damaraland region, Ohorongo Tented Camp offers an unparalleled safari experience that combines the thrill of wildlife encounters with the serenity of the African wilderness. Surrounded by rugged mountains, vast open plains, and the iconic desert-adapted flora, this eco-friendly camp is the perfect base for exploring the rich biodiversity of the area. At Ohorongo Tented Camp, comfort and adventure go hand in hand. The camp features spacious, en-suite tents designed to blend effortlessly with the natural surroundings, providing modern amenities while maintaining an authentic safari charm. After days spent discovering the beauty of Damaraland, guests can unwind in the camp's lounge area or under the starlit sky, enjoying warm hospitality and delicious local cuisine.