Zimbabwe Food and Drink
Zimbabwean cuisine is simple, hearty and based largely on staple ingredients such as maize, vegetables and meat. Meals are filling rather than heavily spiced, and food is generally freshly prepared. In cities and tourist areas, there is a good range of restaurants serving local and international dishes, while safari lodges often offer high-quality dining as part of the overall experience.
Tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities and hotels, but visitors often prefer bottled or filtered water, particularly in rural areas. Food hygiene standards are usually good in established restaurants and lodges. Street food is less common than in some other African countries, but visitors should still choose busy, reputable places when eating outside hotels.
Sadza: A thick maize porridge that is the national staple, usually served with meat, vegetables or relish.
Nyama: Grilled or roasted meat, commonly beef or goat, often enjoyed socially at gatherings.
Dovi: A rich peanut butter stew typically cooked with vegetables or meat.
Kapenta: Small dried fish, usually fried and served with sadza.
Roadrunner chicken: Free-range chicken cooked slowly in traditional stews.
Zambezi Lager: Zimbabwe's most popular beer, crisp and refreshing.
Bohlingers: A locally produced lager widely available in bars and restaurants.
Maheu: A traditional non-alcoholic drink made from fermented maize or millet.
Chibuku: A traditional opaque beer made from sorghum or maize.
Tipping is not compulsory in Zimbabwe but is appreciated, particularly in the tourism sector. In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary if the service is good.
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