It’s late in the evening, and you crave African cuisine’s rich spices and vibrant flavors. If only there were a way to satisfy that hunger without hopping on a plane, right?
Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll take you on a delicious journey through Vancouver’s top authentic African restaurants, each offering unique dishes celebrating the continent’s diverse culinary heritage.
Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey as we unveil the best spots to savor authentic African cuisine in Vancouver. So grab a snack and settle in—your next favorite meal is just a scroll away!
1. Nando’s Davie & Howe
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Website: https://www.nandos.ca/find/davie-howe-downtown
Address: 828 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2S2, Canada
Contact details: +16046781217
Operating hours: 10:30 AM–11 PM
Nando’s Davie & Howe brings a fiery taste of Africa to the city. With its roots in South Africa, this popular restaurant chain has carved a niche by specializing in flame-grilled chicken marinated in their signature PERi-PERi sauce.
The PERi-PERi sauce, made from African chili peppers, is the star of the show, and customers can choose from different spice levels. Beyond the chicken, Nando’s offers a selection of sides and accompaniments that perfectly complement the main dish.
Pro tip:
Don’t be shy about customizing your order. Try the PERi-PERi chicken with a side of creamy mashed potatoes—a classic combination and crowd-pleaser that showcases the signature sauce’s versatility.
2. Harambe Ethiopian Restaurant
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Address: 2149 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4B3, Canada
Contact details: +16042161060
Operating hours: 12–10 PM
Harambe Ethiopian Restaurant’s warm, orange-hued interior is adorned with colorful artwork that transports diners to the heart of Ethiopia. Meat lovers will appreciate options like the tender Awaze Tibs, while vegetarians can indulge in plant-based dishes.
One of the most distinctive aspects of dining at Harambe is the communal style. Traditional Ethiopian meals are served on a large, shared platter, encouraging diners to share and savor the various flavors.
Pro tip:
Embrace the communal dining experience by sharing dishes with your companions. It’s a fantastic way to connect with others and savor the delicious flavors of Ethiopia.
3. Jambo Grill
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Website: http://www.jambogrill.ca/
Address: 3219 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5R 5K3, Canada
Contact details: +16044335060
Operating hours: 11 AM–10 PM
Jambo Grill is a culinary adventure that takes you on a flavorful journey with its innovative fusion of East African and Indian cuisines. The menu is a delightful blend of traditional recipes and modern interpretations, resulting in a distinctive taste profile.
The chefs expertly combine time-honored cooking techniques with contemporary flair, creating authentic and innovative dishes. The extensive menu offers various options, from vegetarian delights to succulent meat-based entrees.
Pro tip:
Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new from the East African section of the menu. Order a variety of small plates to share and immerse yourself in the full Jambo Grill experience.
4. Simba’s Grill
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Website: http://www.simbasgrill.com/
Address: 3300 Boundary Rd, Burnaby, BC V5M 4A4, Canada
Contact details: +16049740649
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Simba’s Grill is an unassuming eatery that offers a captivating journey through the vibrant flavors of East Africa. With its warm, family-run atmosphere, Simba’s Grill invites diners to experience authentic cuisine that is both comforting and exhilarating.
The menu at Simba’s Grill is a treasure trove of tempting dishes. Every bite celebrates East African flavors, from succulent grilled meats marinated to perfection to aromatic curries bursting with complex spices.
Pro tip:
Don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Simba’s Grill offers a variety of dishes that you may not have encountered before. Trust your server’s recommendations and embark on a culinary adventure.
5. Fassil Ethiopian Restaurant
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Website: http://www.fassil.ca/
Address: 736 E Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5T 1X9, Canada
Contact details: +16048792001
Operating hours: 12–10 PM
Fassil Restaurant is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Vancouver. It offers an authentic taste of Ethiopian cuisine. The menu at Fassil showcases the diversity of Ethiopian flavors, with a tempting array of meat and vegetable stews known as wat.
One of Fassil’s most distinctive aspects is its commitment to preserving the essence of Ethiopian dining. The restaurant eschews traditional cutlery in favor of the iconic injera, a spongy, slightly sour flatbread that serves as both plate and utensil.
Pro tip:
Fassil’s combination platters offer a perfect opportunity to explore different tastes and textures. Don’t hesitate to ask your server for recommendations based on your preferences.
6. Moltaqa Moroccan Restaurant
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Website: https://www.moltaqarestaurant.ca/
Address: 1002 Mainland St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6J8, Canada
Contact details: +16048411182
Operating hours: 12–11:30 PM
Moltaqa Moroccan Restaurant’s menu is a treasure trove of traditional Moroccan dishes, meticulously prepared with the freshest ingredients and a blend of time-honored spices.
From the delicate, flaky pastilla to the hearty and flavorful tagines, each dish is a testament to Morocco’s rich culinary heritage. The restaurant often hosts live Qanun music and belly dance performances, adding a layer of cultural richness.
Pro tip:
Order a pot of Moroccan mint tea to complement your meal. This refreshing and aromatic beverage is a quintessential part of the Moroccan dining experience.
7. Gojo Café Ethiopia
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Website: http://www.gojocafe.com/
Address: 2838 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4C6, Canada
Contact details: +16047085394
Operating hours: 4–10 PM
Gojo Café Ethiopia is a culinary gem offering an authentic Ethiopian cuisine taste. The menu showcases a wide array of traditional Ethiopian dishes prepared with time-honored recipes and using the freshest ingredients.
From hearty stews simmered to perfection to flavorful vegetarian options, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The cornerstone of Ethiopian dining, the spongy injera flatbread, is made in-house daily, ensuring its distinctive texture and taste.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the opportunity to try the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a time-honored ritual that involves roasting, grinding, and brewing coffee beans in a traditional clay pot.
8. Safari Snack House
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Website: https://safarisnackhouse.com/
Address: 5121 Canada Way, Burnaby, BC V5E 3N1, Canada
Contact details: +16045159211
Operating hours: 10 AM–4 PM
Safari Snack House is an unassuming eatery a world away from the typical Vancouver dining experience. It transports patrons to the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of countries like Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya.
The menu is a delightful fusion of East African and Indian culinary traditions. The menu boasts a variety of grilled meats, including the tender beef mishkaki and flavorful beef ribs, all marinated with a secret blend of Indo-African herbs and spices.
Pro tip:
Order the combo platter to sample everything the restaurant offers. It’s the perfect way to sample grilled meats and discover your new favorite dish.
9. Axum Restaurant
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Website: http://axumrestaurant.ca/
Address: 1279 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1S4, Canada
Contact details: +16042532986
Operating hours: 12–10 PM
Axum Restaurant is a culinary gem offering an authentic taste of Ethiopian cuisine. The restaurant’s interior is adorned with traditional Ethiopian artifacts, creating a visually captivating ambiance to complement the dishes.
The menu boasts a wide array of traditional Ethiopian dishes, from hearty stews to savory vegetarian options, catering to diverse palates. The restaurant also offers a selection of Ethiopian-inspired beverages, providing a complete cultural immersion.
Pro tip:
Engage in conversation with the friendly staff. They are often eager to share their knowledge of Ethiopian culture and cuisine, enhancing the overall dining experience.
10. Kilimanjaro Snack House and Catering
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Website: http://www.kilisnackhouse.com/
Address: 789 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5V 3C2, Canada
Contact details: +16045597050
Operating hours: Sunday, 11 AM–7 PM
Kilimanjaro Snack House and Catering’s menu is a flavorful journey through the heart of East Africa. The restaurant’s dedication to preserving traditional cooking methods shines through in the quality and taste of its offerings.
One of the standout features of Kilimanjaro Snack House is its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The chefs meticulously prepare each dish, ensuring an explosion of authentic flavors in every bite.
Pro tip:
Don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone and try something new from the menu. Pair your meal with a refreshing beverage to complete the authentic dining experience.