Where Should Vegan Travelers Eat in Arusha?
Why Is Arusha a Good Place for Vegan Food?
If you’re wondering where vegan travellers should eat in Arusha, you’re in for a string of solid options that blend authenticity and taste. I’ve spent time digging into the food scene here, and let me tell you—Arusha’s not just a stopover to the Serengeti or Kilimanjaro; it’s a foodie goldmine for vegans too. The city balances local Tanzanian staples with international flavours, and best of all, plenty of it is naturally plant-based or easily adapted.
Markets brim with fresh produce, restaurants have upped their vegan game, and even safari lodges are catching on. Whether you’re here for a couple of days or longer, there are exciting dishes and hidden gems to uncover. You just need to know where to look—and that’s what this guide is for.
What Are the Top 5 Vegan Eats in Arusha?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick snapshot of the best vegan restaurants in Arusha:
- Five Chutneys — Pure vegetarian Indian street food with 30+ vegan options.
- The Blue Heron Café — Known for smoothie bowls and coconut dhal.
- Art Café Arusha — Try the vegan pizza and raw desserts.
- Café Rehema — Famous for fresh salads and vegan cooking workshops.
- Silk Route Ethiopian Restaurant — Classic injera with shiro and greens.
What Are the Best Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Arusha?
Is Five Chutneys the Best Vegan Restaurant in Arusha?
Absolutely. Five Chutneys is hands down the top spot if you’re serious about flavour, authenticity, and variety. Located right in the heart of Arusha at the Qutbi Building, near Rushda Supermarket and opposite Soko Kuu, this place sets the bar for what vegan food in East Africa can be.
It’s a pure vegetarian restaurant with over 30 clearly marked vegan dishes on the menu. Their focus is on Indian street food—think hearty curries, made-in-house chutneys, sizzling dosa, and perfectly spiced lentils. The story behind it is just as rich. Founders Jagat and Roshni Vyas built the place out of a passion for home-style Indian cooking. They even handcraft their own paneer and mayonnaise daily—though the vegan mayo is a favourite.
The staff here actually understand veganism. You won’t have to explain what “no ghee, no honey” means. Just walk in, ask what’s vegan, and you’ll be treated like royalty. A must-try? The paneerless vegan samosas and their legendary chutney platter.
Contact:
Five Chutneys, Qutbi Building, Near Rushda Supermarket, Opposite Soko Kuu, Arusha, Tanzania.
Tel: +255 783 505 505
Email: fivechutneys@gmail.com
View their full vegan menu here: fivechutneys.com/menu
What Vegan Options Does The Blue Heron Café Offer?
The Blue Heron Café is a popular brunch and café spot tucked away in lush surroundings. Its serenity gives big yoga-retreat vibes, and the food backs it up. They specialise in plant-based breakfasts—smoothie bowls, grilled veggie platters, and of course, their standout dish: the spiced coconut dhal.
It’s a great hangout spot for digital nomads or anyone who wants a calm vegan-friendly escape just steps from the main town area. Pull up a seat under the trees, order a turmeric latte and dhal, and you’ll see why it’s loved.
What Makes Art Café Arusha Good for Vegans?
This is Arusha’s artsy hub—it combines good food, open-air seating, and a chill atmosphere. The highlight here is their vegan pizza topped with almond cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Not into pizza? Try their raw vegan desserts for something lighter. Think coconut-date bars and fruit tarts.
Seating is casual and laid back. You might even catch a live artist session or eco-market while you’re there. If rustic, creative, and organic appeal to you, this place nails it.
How Vegan-Friendly Is Café Rehema?
Here’s a place with heart. Café Rehema is more than a café—it’s a social enterprise that trains and supports disadvantaged youth. Their vegan selection leans toward lighter meals: fresh salads loaded with avocado and kale, and hearty veggie wraps that won’t leave you missing meat.
Bonus? They host weekly vegan cooking workshops. It’s a great way to learn how to recreate local vegan meals at home, from plantain stews to coconut bean curries.
Does Silk Route Ethiopian Restaurant Offer Vegan Staples?
Ethiopian food is underrated magic for vegans, and Silk Route does justice to tradition. The base is soft, spongy injera (made from teff, naturally gluten-free), paired with rich, spicy vegetable stews. Top picks include shiro (chickpea paste) and sautéed greens called gomen.
No need to second-guess ingredients—most of the menu is either naturally vegan or can easily be veganised. Great for group dinners or when you need a serious dose of umami.
Where Can You Find Vegan Street Food & Markets in Arusha?
What’s Good for Vegans at Arusha Central Market?
If you’re exploring on foot, don’t skip Arusha Central Market. It’s a labyrinth of fresh produce, local spices, and plenty for vegans to snack on. Load up on seasonal fruits like mangoes, papayas, and avocados. You’ll also find roasted maize, groundnuts, and fresh sugarcane juice.
Want something hot and local? Look for street vendors grilling veggie skewers or mishkaki. Don’t expect signs—ask around and you’ll likely find a woman near the banana stall doing amazing things with tofu or jackfruit.
Which Tanzanian Street Snacks Are Vegan?
Some of the best vegan eats in Arusha don’t even have a storefront. Here are a few street snacks to try (make sure to confirm ingredients):
- Samosas – Fried triangles stuffed with lentils or potatoes. Just ask for no beef, no chicken.
- Mahamri – Coconut doughnuts that are egg-free and served with beans or chai.
Are There Vegan-Friendly Lodges and Day Trips Around Arusha?
Which Safari Lodges Cater to Vegans?
Think you’ll be stuck with white rice and sad salad on safari? Think again. Eco-conscious lodges like Ol Donyo Lodge are changing the game. They’re happy to create full vegan menus—everything from grilled tofu dishes to lentil patties with papaya salsa.
Always give advance notice, though. Some camps are remote and may need time to prepare vegan ingredients. The sooner you let them know, the better your meals will be.
What Can Vegans Eat During a Kilimanjaro Day Trip?
On Kilimanjaro routes or Moshi day trips, you’ll want to plan ahead. A solid pitstop is Café Kibanda—a 100% vegan bakery known for its power-packed peanut bars and cinnamon rolls. Located in Moshi town, it’s perfect for fuelling up before or after a trek.
How to Request Vegan Meals in Remote Camps?
Be direct. Say you’re vegan and clarify no dairy, no eggs, no meat, no honey. Use simple phrases and follow up. If you want to be polite but firm, message camps at least a week in advance and remind them again at check-in. It prevents surprises like fish broth in your soup or honey drizzled over fruit.
What Are the Best Tips for Vegan Dining in Arusha?
How to Say “I’m Vegan” in Swahili?
Knowing a few phrases goes a long way. Here are a couple to memorise:
- Mimi ni vegan. – I am vegan.
- Sili nyama, maziwa, mayai, au asali. – I don’t eat meat, dairy, eggs, or honey.
How to Spot Non-Vegan Ingredients?
In Tanzania, hidden animal products can sneak in. Here’s what to look out for:
- Ghee – Common in Indian dishes. Ask for oil instead.
- Fish or beef stock – Often added to soups and stews.
- Honey – Frequently used in desserts or drinks.
If unsure, just ask. Most kitchens are happy to accommodate—especially when you know what to say.
What Are the Best Apps to Find Vegan Food in Arusha?
Be smart; let your phone do some of the heavy lifting. Here are a few top apps and tools for finding vegan food in Arusha:
- HappyCow – Always the MVP for worldwide vegan spots.
- Google Maps – Search “vegan restaurant Arusha” and read recent reviews.
- Local Facebook Groups – Type “Vegans in Tanzania” or “Arusha Foodies.” Great for current recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is It Easy to Find Vegan Food in Arusha?
Yes. Especially compared to other African cities. Between dedicated restaurants like Five Chutneys, flexible cafés, and easy street eats, vegan food in Arusha is surprisingly accessible.
Which Traditional Tanzanian Dishes Are Naturally Vegan?
Several Tanzanian staples are vegan by default. Try maharage (bean stew), ugali (maize meal), ndizi (stewed plantain), and sauteed greens. Just double-check that they’re cooked without margarine or meat stock.
Where Can I Buy Vegan Groceries or Supplements?
Local supermarkets like Shoppers or Nakumatt stock basics like almond milk, soy-based products, and oats. For supplements, check pharmacies or international health stores.
Conclusion: Where’s the Top Vegan Food in Arusha?
Which Places Should Be on Every Vegan Traveller’s List?
Here’s the bottom line. If you’re looking for where vegan travellers should eat in Arusha, make Five Chutneys your first stop. The variety, quality, and authenticity are unbeatable. After that, the Blue Heron Café and Art Café offer great atmosphere and solid meals. For cultural eats, hit up Silk Route or the buzzing central market.
Any Final Tips for Sustainable, Vegan Travel in Tanzania?
Support local businesses that serve the community. Bring a reusable water bottle. Be polite but firm when asking about your dietary needs. And above all, be open-minded—some of your best meals will come from unexpected places.
Vegan life in Arusha? Absolutely worth it.