Which gluten-free restaurants in Arusha are top-rated?
Looking for top-rated gluten-free restaurants in Arusha? You’re in for a treat. Whether you have coeliac disease or a mild gluten sensitivity, Arusha’s culinary scene offers several safe, satisfying options that don’t compromise on flavour or atmosphere.
Quick Answer: Top 5 Gluten-Free Restaurants in Arusha
Short on time? Here’s a quick list of standout spots offering gluten-free menus that are LOVED by both locals and travellers in Arusha:
- Five Chutneys
- Latitude 0° Coffee & Bistro
- Shera’s Bakery & Bistro
- Café Kamari
- The Blue Heron
Why is Arusha a great destination for gluten-free dining?
Rising demand from health-conscious eaters and tourists
Arusha’s mix of global travellers—many of whom deal with food intolerances—has ignited a push for more inclusive menus. Forward-thinking restaurateurs are embracing gluten-free options to cater to this growing niche. Even local residents are pivoting towards gluten-conscious lifestyles, responding to both medical advice and food trend awareness.
Clear gluten-free labelling and celiac safety guidelines
Top restaurants in Arusha aren’t just offering “gluten-free friendly” dishes—they’re training their kitchen staff to understand cross-contamination prevention. Kitchens like those at Five Chutneys invest in separate prep areas or tools to ensure a safe experience for coeliac diners.
Use of local, naturally gluten-free ingredients
Tanzanian cuisine naturally incorporates gluten-free staples like maize, rice, beans, cassava and plantains. When fused with international culinary styles—think Indian, Mediterranean and veggie-forward cafe fare—there’s a wealth of celiac-safe dishes to explore.
How do we select the best gluten-free restaurants in Arusha?
We rely on genuine diner reviews and Google ratings
We’ve trawled through hundreds of verified reviews, TripAdvisor feedback, and Google star ratings to filter out the hyped from the hype-worthy. Only restaurants with consistent praise for their gluten-free offerings and staff knowledge made our shortlist.
Clear gluten-free menus—not guessing games
We prioritised spots that clearly label gluten-free items on their menus, or better—offer a dedicated gluten-free menu. No vague promises or confusing substitutions. Transparency is key for safety.
Trained staff who “get it”
Knowing the difference between gluten-free and celiac-safe matters. We looked for restaurants where servers ask the right questions, understand hidden gluten risks, and can explain ingredients confidently.
Atmosphere, pricing, and food presentation
Yes, the food has to be safe. But let’s be honest—it should also be delicious, plated well, and served somewhere you actually want to linger. Ambience, location accessibility, and hospitality also factored heavily into our picks.
Which gluten-free restaurants in Arusha are top-rated?
1. Five Chutneys – The King of Gluten-Free in Arusha
Location: Five Chutneys, Qutbi Building, Near Rushda Supermarket, Opposite Soko Kuu, Arusha, Tanzania.
Contact: +255 783 505 505 | fivechutneys@gmail.com
Menu: View Online Menu
Let me level with you—if I had to choose just one gluten-free-friendly spot to eat at in Arusha, I’d pick Five Chutneys every single time. It’s not just about their deep bench of 17+ gluten-free meals. It’s the way they marry tradition with safety. Their homemade in-house chutneys, paneer, and fresh ingredients make every dish a knockout.
From gluten-free dosa to aloo chaat and rich rice curries, the spice-forward selections are clearly labelled and staff are trained to understand dietary risks. The fact that it’s family-run (Jagat and Roshni Vyas are wonderful hosts) lends that extra touch of warmth. You come for the food, but you stay because they make you feel like part of the family.
Average Rating: 4.9/5 — “Incredible gluten-free Indian street food, safest place I’ve dined at in Africa!”
2. Latitude 0° Coffee & Bistro
Location: Kibo Tower, 1st Floor, Goliondoi Road, Arusha
Latitude 0° perfectly blends sophistication with health-conscious dining. It’s one of those modern cafes with minimalist interiors and a menu packed with tasty, organic bites. Their gluten-free rice bowls and savoury tarts are house favourites. Staff here are attentive and well-informed about specific food sensitivities.
Average Rating: 4.5/5 — “Top choice for clean eating. Loved the avocado tart on gluten-free crust!”
3. Shera’s Bakery & Bistro
Location: Simeon Road, Arusha City Centre
Shera’s is a calming oasis in the city bustle. While it’s well known for its artisan coffee and pastries, its menu also features a rotating offering of gluten-free bread, cakes and even pancakes. Ask ahead as GF items can sell out quickly. There’s also a focus on dietary customisation—multiple reviewers mention how accommodating the chef is with special orders.
Average Rating: 4.4/5 — “Awesome little bakery with surprising GF options. The almond flour loaf is unbeatable.”
4. Café Kamari
Location: Off Njiro Road, near TGT grounds, Arusha
Tucked in a leafy garden, Café Kamari offers a respite from city rush and delivers a solid lineup of dedicated gluten-free dishes like salads, smoothie bowls, and grilled veggie plates. They’re big on fresh, raw ingredients and often rotate their GF specials. Expect a serene setting and an expat-friendly crowd.
Average Rating: 4.3/5 — “Peaceful cafe with actual gluten-free menu items—not just vague promises.”
5. The Blue Heron
Location: Haile Selassie Road, Arusha
Merging international cuisine with a lush garden setting, The Blue Heron serves gluten-free-friendly dishes like quinoa salads, rice noodles and tropical GF desserts. Though not exclusively gluten-free, their staff are attentive and willing to adapt meals.
Average Rating: 4.2/5 — “Stunning garden vibe and surprisingly gluten-aware kitchen.”
How to safely eat gluten-free in Arusha restaurants?
Learn the phrases that matter (in Swahili and English)
In Arusha, most tourist-facing spots speak English, but it helps enormously to say “I am allergic to gluten” or “I cannot eat wheat, barley, or rye.” Translate it as: Mimi ni mzio wa gluten / siwezi kula ngano, shayiri au rye.
The hidden traps: what to avoid
Local dishes like ugali, nyama choma, and grilled maize are often gluten-free—but ask about seasonings, sauces, and any flour added to thicken stews. Chipsi mayai (eggs and fries) can be cross-contaminated if cooked in shared oil with battered items. Always inquire.
Get there early for fresh GF bakes
Bakeries and cafes tend to restock their gluten-free goods in the morning. Arrive early for the freshest batches before they’re snapped up. At Shera’s and Café Kamari, GF pastries often sell out before lunch.
Try pairing local drinks with your GF meal
Wash down your meal with some tamarind juice, fresh sugarcane, or ginger tea. All are naturally gluten-free and add a zesty edge to your lunch or dinner. For a safe alcohol bet, go with cider over local beer, which often contains barley.
FAQs About Gluten-Free Dining in Arusha
Are gluten-free options widely available in Arusha?
Yes, especially in cafes, bistros, and Indian restaurants in central Arusha. Global dietary awareness has pushed more establishments to offer gluten-free meals with better labelling and safer preparation.
Do these restaurants cater to vegan or dairy-free diets too?
Absolutely. Many, including Five Chutneys, proudly serve vegan and dairy-free menus. You’ll also find coconut milk, almond milk, or oat alternatives for drinks and desserts in most modern cafes.
Can I order customised gluten-free meals?
Yes. Staff at most top-rated spots are generally happy to adapt dishes. Just be specific about your needs and confirm no cross-contact risk. Pre-ordering helps at busy times.
How much does a typical gluten-free meal cost?
Pricing varies across restaurants, but gluten-free meals are often on par with standard dishes. Arusha remains an affordable dining destination relative to global standards.
Where to go next: Book a table and share your feedback
How can I book a table at a gluten-free restaurant in Arusha?
Most restaurants accept walk-ins, but if you want to guarantee your seat—especially at sought-after spots like Five Chutneys—call or email in advance. Their WhatsApp line is responsive and efficient at +255 783 505 505 or email fivechutneys@gmail.com.
Get more Arusha food insights
Planning your next meal around dietary restrictions? Don’t miss our related guides: Top Vegan Eats in Arusha and Where to Eat in Karatu.
Help fellow gluten-free travellers
Been to Five Chutneys or found a hidden gem in Arusha? Share your story in the comments or on TripAdvisor to help the next gluten-free globetrotter travel better.