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You won't find much truly Namibian food (although local venison, seafood, and Namibian oysters are superb); the cuisine is mainly European, often German, though international variety and standards increasingly are found in the larger towns. Lodges usually serve good homestyle cooking—pies, pastries, fresh vegetables, lots of red meat, mouthwatering desserts, and the traditional braai (barbecue). Because of its past as a German colony, Namibia is known for its lager. South African wine, which is excellent, is readily available.
The palm-shaded terrace at this classic little café is a good place to watch the world go by while you savor scrumptious home-baked cakes and pastries, or enjoy a late-afternoon tea with hazelnut triangles, custard-filled danish, or croissants. Breakfast (buffet or à la carte style) is served until 11 am, and a small selection of light lunch options, like toasted sandwiches and soups, are served from noon until 2 pm.
If you’re looking for something with a little local flavor, try the Zambezi bream fillet or the mielie pap and stew at this café on the main road through Katima Mulilo. Wash it down with a smoothie, shake, or gourmet coffee, as you watch indigenous birds frolicking in the luscious garden. While there are no airs or graces here, expect hearty, homemade food and friendly service. They also operate a small kiosk at the Katima Mulilo Airport that serves beverages and snacks to grab on the go.
