3 Best Restaurants in Zambia

Background Illustration for Restaurants

In Zimbabwe, game meat can be found on almost any menu, but it's something of a delicacy in Zambia; superior free-range beef and chicken are available everywhere. The local bream, filleted or whole, is excellent, and the staple starch, a thick porridge similar to polenta—sadza in Zimbabwe and nsima in Zambia—is worth a try; use your fingers to eat it (you'll be given a bowl for washing afterward). Adventurous? Try macimbi or vinkuvala (sundried mopane worms) or inswa (flash-fried flying ants) during the flood season.

Meals are taken at regular hours, but during the week, restaurants close around 10. Dress is generally casual, but this part of Africa easily lends itself to a little bling, so you'll never be out of place in something more glamorous.

Livingstone Island Picnic

$$$$ Fodor's Choice

Available throughout the year whenever the water levels are low enough, this is a spectacular dining option especially if you want to see Devil's Pool. Livingstone Island is perched right on the edge of the void, where you'll dine at a table dressed with linen and gleaming silver on a delicious organic lunch (with salads) served by attentive waiters. You get there by boat (two engines, just in case). Brunch and afternoon tea are US$130 and US$175, respectively, and lunch is US$190, including transfers and a dip in Devil's Pool. The trips are run by Green Safaris, with a maximum of 24 guests. 

Livingstone, Zambia
0213-327–450
Known For
  • Unparalleled proximity to the Falls
  • Unique, spectacular location
  • Delectable sweets
Restaurant Details
Closed a couple of months around Mar.–June, depending on water levels. No dinner
Reservations essential

Something incorrect in this review?

Golden Leaf

$$

The Moghuls themselves might declare a meal here a feast. Spicy but not hot, the curries are lovingly prepared from ingredients imported from India. The chicken tikka masala is a house speciality, and the handmade saffron kulfi is an inspired dessert at the end of another hot day in Africa. You'll do well to find better curry anywhere in Zambia, and portions and prices are reasonable.

110 Mosi-oa-Tunya Rd., Livingstone, Zambia
0213-321–266
Known For
  • Authentic ambience and food
  • Good variety of curries
  • Great service
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon.

Something incorrect in this review?

Olga's Italian Corner

$

This restaurant delivers a double whammy. Not only does it serve genuine house-made Italian food prepared from fresh local ingredients, it's also part of an NGO project that trains and benefits the local youth. Open six days a week, Olga's features house-made croissants and muffins with Italian espresso for breakfast and seasonal delights for lunch and dinner. All the Italian pastas and pizzas are prepared on the premises and served with flavorful sauces made to order.

20 Mokambo Rd., Livingstone, Zambia
0977-229–083
Known For
  • Its strong social conscience
  • Probably the best pizza in Zambia
  • Good value for money

Something incorrect in this review?

Recommended Fodor's Video