List of popular restaurants in Zambia and common foods prices

Here is a list of some prominent restaurants in Zambia, particularly in Lusaka, which is the hub of the country’s culinary scene:

List of popular restaurants in Zambia
Image Credit: Gourmet restaurant.

  1. Lilayi Lodge Restaurant (Lusaka)
    Known for blending traditional Zambian flavors with modern cuisine, Lilayi offers a refined dining experience with ingredients sourced from its own game farm and gardens.

  2. The Retreat at Roma (Lusaka)
    This is a tranquil dining spot offering a mix of local and international dishes in a serene outdoor setting.

  3. Four Seasons Bistro (Lusaka)
    A European-inspired restaurant focusing on fresh, locally sourced, and organic ingredients. It frequently updates its menu with seasonal specials.

  4. Misty Restaurant and Jazz Café (Lusaka)
    Offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music and continental cuisine.

  5. The Deli (Lusaka)
    Known for its artisan breads, gourmet sandwiches, and fresh, organic ingredients, The Deli is a favorite for casual dining.

  6. Rhapsody’s (Lusaka and other locations)
    A well-established name offering a mix of Zambian and international cuisines, featuring beautifully presented dishes.

  7. The Hussar Grill (Lusaka, East Park Mall)
    Renowned for its perfectly aged steaks and upscale yet welcoming atmosphere.

  8. Dil Indian Restaurant (Lusaka)
    A premium spot for Indian cuisine, offering authentic dishes in an elegant setting.

  9. Chang Thai Restaurant (Lusaka)
    Specializing in authentic Thai cuisine, Chang provides both indoor and outdoor dining options

  10. Marlin Restaurant (Lusaka)
    Famous for its steaks, seafood, and Creole-inspired cooking.

  11. Plates Restaurant & Wine Bar (Lusaka)
    A sophisticated dining experience near Arcades Shopping Centre, focusing on American and Mediterranean cuisine.

  12.  Hungry lion. A fast food provider in Zambia with large customer base especially in Lusaka. Know for chicken and chips in different packages at varying prices.

  13. KFC.  The international eating place also exist in Zambia. Offering various foods and is a major competitor to Hungry Lion

These establishments reflect Zambia’s diverse culinary offerings, combining local traditions with international influences.

List of Pizza shops/ restaurants in Zambia

Here is a list of notable pizza establishments in Zambia, particularly focused on Lusaka, the capital:

  1. Debonairs Pizza
    A popular chain with multiple outlets across Lusaka and other cities like Kitwe, Ndola, and Solwezi. Known for affordable combo deals and a variety of pizza flavors.

  2. Pizza Hut
    Internationally recognized, Pizza Hut offers a range of classic and specialty pizzas in Lusaka, featuring dine-in, delivery, and takeaway options.

  3. Panarottis
    Known for its Italian-style pizzas, Panarottis operates at locations like Manda Hill, Waterfalls, and East Park Mall. It emphasizes fresh ingredients and a family-friendly atmosphere.

  4. Roman’s Pizza
    Located in malls such as East Park and Cosmopolitan, Roman’s Pizza specializes in fast-food-style pizzas with customizable options.

  5. Eataly Pizzeria
    Offers a more artisanal pizza experience with fresh, high-quality toppings and an Italian-inspired menu.

  6. Il Portico
    A mix of Italian cuisine with a focus on pizza, this restaurant offers a cozy setting and consistently high ratings from diners.

These establishments reflect the variety of pizza styles available, ranging from fast-food to gourmet options. For detailed menus or specific locations, platforms like TripAdvisor and OpenTable can be helpful some restaurants also have drinking facilities

Common foods at Zambian restaurants

Zambian restaurants often serve a mix of traditional and modern dishes. Common foods include:

  1. Nshima: A staple dish made from maize meal, often served with sides like relish, vegetables, or meats.
  2. Kapenta: Small dried fish, usually fried or stewed, paired with nshima.
  3. Chikanda: Known as "African polony," this is a vegetarian dish made from wild orchid tubers.
  4. Grilled Meats: Beef, chicken, or goat are popular options.
  5. Vegetable Dishes: Pumpkin leaves (chibwabwa) and okra (delele) are common.
  6. International Options: Pizza, pasta, and Indian or Chinese dishes.

These dishes showcase Zambia's rich culinary heritage.  restaurants have access to different farm products to diversify favorite dishes for local people. 

Food prices in most restaurants.

Food prices in Zambian restaurants vary depending on the type of establishment, location, and menu offerings. Here's an overview of common prices:

  1. Casual Dining and Local Restaurants:

    • Basic meal in a local restaurant: Around 75 ZMW -120 ZMW
    • A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: About 375 ZMW 
    • Combo meals (e.g., fast food like chicken and chips meal): Approximately 79 ZMW - 150 ZMW

  2. Fast Food and Snacks:

    • Cheeseburger: Roughly 18 ZMW 
    • Fries or small side dish: 12–20 ZMW 

  3. Beverages:

    • Domestic beer (0.5 L): 23 ZMW
    • Coffee in a café: 25–40 ZMW 
    • Bottle of water (500 mL): 10–15 ZMW

These prices may fluctuate based on location, with urban centers like Lusaka often slightly more expensive than smaller towns. For travelers or diners, understanding local currency rates (1 USD ≈ 27.5 ZMW) is helpful when budgeting. 

10 things to consider when choosing a restaurant in Zambia

Choosing a restaurant in Zambia involves considering various factors to ensure a satisfying dining experience. Here's a guide to help you:

1. Determine Your Purpose

  • Casual Dining or Special Occasion: Decide if you want a casual meal, a fine-dining experience, or a place to celebrate a special event.
  • Business Meeting or Family Outing: Look for places with suitable ambiance, such as quiet spots for meetings or family-friendly venues.

2. Cuisine Preference

  • Zambia offers a mix of local and international cuisines. Choose based on what you’re craving:
    • Local: Try restaurants serving nshima with traditional sides like chikanda or bream.
    • International: Italian, Chinese, Indian, and American cuisines are widely available in urban areas like Lusaka and Livingstone.

3. Budget

  • Restaurants range from affordable local eateries to high-end establishments. Set a budget and explore options within that range.
  • Many online platforms or reviews provide price ranges for restaurants.

4. Location

  • Proximity matters, especially if you want to avoid long commutes.
  • Look for well-reviewed restaurants near your area or tourist attractions.

5. Reviews and Recommendations

  • Use platforms like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, or social media to check ratings and reviews.
  • Ask locals or frequent travelers for their suggestions.

6. Menu Options

  • Check if the restaurant caters to dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, halal, etc.).
  • Explore menus online or call the restaurant to confirm availability.

7. Ambiance and Atmosphere

  • Consider whether you prefer an open-air experience, live music, or a quiet setting.
  • Many top-rated Zambian restaurants boast beautiful gardens, views, or cultural décor.

8. Hygiene Standards

  • Choose places with a reputation for cleanliness. Reviews often highlight hygiene practices.

9. Special Features

  • Some restaurants offer unique features such as:
    • Wildlife Views: In tourist hubs like Livingstone, you might find restaurants with scenic views of Victoria Falls or wildlife.
    • Cultural Entertainment: Traditional dances or local music may be part of the experience.

10. Reservations and Accessibility

  • Fine dining or popular venues may require reservations, especially during weekends or holidays.
  • Ensure the location is easily accessible and check for parking facilities.