2 Best Restaurants in Namibia

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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.

Hansa Hotel Main Restaurant

$$$ Fodor's Choice

Full of old-world charm, the restaurant in this perfectly restored 1905 German colonial building looks out onto the manicured garden. This is the perfect place for that special-occasion dinner because the service is impeccable, the wine list excellent, and the menu is a broad selection of good, rich food such as venison steak and Namibian seafood delicacies. Whatever you do, make sure you start with the Kalahari cappuccino (a creamy soup made from Kalahari truffles) and end with the theatrical boozy coffee in the adjoining bar. It is on the pricey side, but certainly worth it.

3 Hendrik Witbooi St., Swakopmund, Namibia
264-64-414–200
Known For
  • Quaint and cozy, old-school decor
  • Generous portions
  • First-class service
Restaurant Details
Reservations essential

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Leo's at the Castle

$$

Arguably Windhoek's only true fine-dining establishment—with a price tag to match—Leo's is literally in a castle on a hill. The small chandelier-dazzled dining room has fabulous views of the city and the haute cuisine is both gorgeously prepared and presented. Inside, it's all Champagne and taupe elegance, and sepia prints of early-20th-century photographs of the castle. The seasonal menu is not large but focuses on meat, with a couple of fresh fish and vegetarian options. The wine list is an impressive tome with at least 9,000 bottles available to choose from at any given time.

22 Heinitzburg St., Windhoek, Namibia
264-61-249–597
Known For
  • Outstanding service
  • Excellent wine selection
  • The outside seating is delightful
Restaurant Details
Reservations essential

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