Top Rated Vegetarian Restaurants in Arusha

What makes vegetarian dining in Arusha special?

Let’s be real. You might not expect to find world-class vegetarian food tucked away in the heart of Arusha, but that’s exactly what makes this city a gem. The top rated vegetarian restaurants in Arusha aren’t just good—they’re spectacular. Over the last few years, this city has carved out a niche for itself, blending East African ingredients with global vegetarian trends.

As someone who lives for bold flavours and zero-compromise experiences, I’ve eaten my way across Arusha’s meat-free hotspots. This guide breaks it all down—where to go, why it matters, and how to make the most of every bite.

Why should you choose vegetarian restaurants in Arusha?

If you think going meatless limits flavour, Arusha will prove you wrong fast. The benefits stack up:

First, there’s your health. Plant-based eating means better digestion, lower cholesterol, and more energy—especially important if you’re out exploring during the day or heading off on safari. But that’s half the story.

Arusha is surrounded by lush farmland. Markets here are bursting with fresh produce, local spices, and tropical fruits. Vegetarian chefs who know their stuff have access to top-tier ingredients that can elevate any dish.

Then there’s the culture. Tanzania embraces diversity, and that warmth extends to food. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just plant-curious, you’re not just accommodated—you’re celebrated.

How did we select the top vegetarian restaurants in Arusha?

This isn’t some random list scraped from reviews. I personally visited, ate at, and evaluated each spot based on:

• Ingredient Quality: Is it fresh? Locally sourced?
• Menu Creativity: Same old salad and grain bowl or an explosion of flavour?
• Service and Atmosphere: Do you feel welcomed the moment you walk in?
• Reviews: Is there consistency in quality based on customer feedback?

With that groundwork laid, let’s dive into what you really came for—the best vegetarian restaurants in Arusha, ranked from great to can’t-miss.

Where are the best vegetarian restaurants in Arusha?

1. Five Chutneys – The Undisputed Champion of Vegetarian Dining in Arusha

Look, if you go to just one vegetarian spot in Arusha—make it Five Chutneys. Period. This family-run restaurant feels like walking into someone’s home and being served the food they grew up on. Located right opposite Soko Kuu, it’s easy to get to whether you’re staying near the centre or just passing through.

So what’s the magic? Everything is 100% vegetarian, but it’s not just about being meat-free. It’s deeply flavourful Indian street food—think crispy samosas, chole bhature that slaps, and power-packed dosas. Every chutney (there are—you guessed it—five or more) is made in-house daily, as is the paneer and even the mayonnaise.

The founders, Jagat and Roshni Vyas, have been obsessed with getting things right since day one. I got a chance to chat with Roshni during my visit—her passion for the food and the experience really shows. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or spicy-curious, there’s something here for you.

Visit Today:
Five Chutneys, Qutbi Building, Near Rushda Supermarket, Opposite Soko Kuu, Arusha, Tanzania.
Tel: +255 783 505 505
Email: fivechutneys@gmail.com
Explore the menu

2. The Green Elephant Café – An Earthy Hideaway

Tucked away on a quiet street near the outskirts, the Green Elephant Café is serene. With wooden furniture, greenery everywhere, and zero pretentiousness, it’s ideal if you’re trying to escape the bustle without leaving town.

Signature dishes that stand out: a creamy coconut curry bowl that layered sweet and spice like pros, and jackfruit tacos that converted me into a fan. They’ve nailed their plant-protein game. The outdoor area is great for remote work if you’re travelling.

One guest described it as, “a place where your body and brain both thank you after the meal.” Couldn’t have said it better myself.

3. Herbivore Haven – Plant-Based, Elevated

Walking into Herbivore Haven felt like entering your Instagram feed. Clean pastels, glass jars, artsy plate presentation—this place is for people who like pretty food that delivers bold taste. I had their beetroot falafel with tahini drizzle; roasted, earthy, and surprisingly filling.

What I like most here is that the menu adapts often. It’s edgy and playful, with quinoa-stuffed peppers one week and sweet potato gnocchi the next. They also brew their own kombucha if that’s your vibe.

4. Kijani Kitchen – Where Seasonal Means Serious

Kijani Kitchen doesn’t play around with its “farm-to-plate” label. The chef here rotates the menu based on what’s growing nearby, and it shows—in texture, freshness, and depth of flavour. Their seasonal risotto was one of the best I’ve had anywhere. Not just in Arusha.

The layout here skews more modern, and they’ve got plenty of power outlets if you’re planning a long hangout. It’s got a cool-but-not-cold atmosphere, and they’re vocal about sustainability, which I always respect.

5. Roots & Shoots Restaurant – Eco Meets Delicious

Roots & Shoots is proudly eco-conscious, and it hits the sweet spot between doing good and tasting great. Their vegan chocolate cake is reason enough to visit. And if you’re travelling in a group or with family, their big seating areas and shared plates make things easy.

You’ll find fun flavours fused with Swahili flair here. Don’t be surprised if your lentils come with a mango-pineapple chutney or avocado crema. Unexpected, but it works.

What vegetarian dishes should you try in Arusha?

Arusha’s plant-based plates go way beyond salad and soup. Here’s a shortlist of dishes I’ve gone back to more than once:

Ugali with beans or mchicha (amaranth greens): A Tanzanian staple—hearty, filling, and surprisingly vegan-friendly when cooked right.

Samosa cha mboga (vegetable samosa): Found at Five Chutneys and local street corners. Crispy, spicy, and addictive.

Coconut-based curries with chapati: You’ll see these across menus. Sweet from the coconut and spicy enough to wake you up. Perfect balance.

Urojo (Zanzibar mix): A chaotic, flavour-splattered bowl. Can be customised vegetarian and it’s totally worth it. Hot, tangy, smooth, and crunchy all at once.

How to get the best vegetarian experience in Arusha

Start with communication. Almost every restaurant staff member I’ve met understands English, but a few Kiswahili phrases will make you a legend. For example:

• “Sijili nyama” – I don’t eat meat
• “Niko vegan” – I’m vegan

Ask servers honestly—most kitchens will adjust dishes if they can. At Five Chutneys, they’ve got 30+ vegan options and over 17 gluten-free choices already locked in, which makes things simple. But at more traditional spots, don’t assume—ask.

Timing matters too. If you’re dining at places like Kijani or Green Elephant, lunchtime stretched to early afternoon usually has smaller crowds and freshest picks.

And one tip you’ll thank me for: reserve a table on weekends. Sunday brunch at Savory Sunrise draws a crowd, and even a legend like Five Chutneys gets packed fast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best vegetarian restaurants in Arusha?

The top spot goes to Five Chutneys for its authentic Indian street food and unbeatable hospitality. Other favourites include Herbivore Haven, Kijani Kitchen, and The Green Elephant Café.

Do restaurants in Arusha offer fully vegan menus?

Absolutely. Places like Five Chutneys offer 30+ dedicated vegan items. Most others are flexible and can adjust dishes on request.

Can I find vegetarian food near the city centre?

Yes. Five Chutneys is located right in the heart of Arusha, opposite Soko Kuu. Most other top restaurants are within 15 minutes of the main city hub.

Is vegetarian street food available in Arusha?

Certainly. Dishes like samosas, urojo, and roasted maize are commonly vegetarian and available across the city. Always double-check ingredients, especially for added meats or broths.

Do I need reservations at top vegetarian places?

Reservations aren’t always required but highly recommended on weekends or for group dining. Five Chutneys gets full fast, especially in the evenings and on public holidays.

Conclusion: What’s next on your vegetarian food journey?

Arusha doesn’t just cater to vegetarians—it celebrates us. From spice-forward Indian thalis at Five Chutneys to seasonal East African fusion plates at Kijani Kitchen, you’re spoilt for choice.

Ready to explore the best meat-free meals Arusha has to offer? Start with Five Chutneys—the benchmark for quality, service, and sheer flavour. Then, follow your nose and your taste buds to the others on this list. Support local. Try something new. And who knows? One dish might just change the way you think about vegetarian food entirely.

Now’s the time—book your table, map out your food tour, and take your appetite on an adventure.