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Food and Drink in Namibia

Namibia-Food and Drink

Traditional Namibian Food and Drink

A rich and varied cultural heritage in Namibia is vividly displayed through cultural dress, and is even more evident in the varied cuisine found throughout Namibia.
 

Local Cuisine

The Herero are fond of preparing large fleshy mushrooms called omajowa. They are also known as anthill mushrooms, appearing at the foot of termite hills shortly after the February rains. Some of these mushrooms grow as large as 1kg and a delight when fried in butter or made into a soup.
 

The Kalahari Truffle is another favourite amongst the Nama people in Namibia. It grows primarily in the red sands of the Kalahari regions.
 

Asparagus is farmed 15km inland of Swakopmund and is a delicacy in this desert region. The conditions in Namibia are perfect for the dates and olives that are farmed commercially, delicious condiments to any meal.
 

Fish is plentiful along the coastline of Namibia and fresh fish and seafood are often the daily specialty at the coastal hotels, resorts, cafes and restaurants. Abalone, locally referred to as perlemoen, is another sought after variant of shellfish that can be cultivated successfully in the cold waters off Namibia’s coast.
 

Namibian oysters are by far the most popular delicacy – whether enjoyed fresh ‘on the rocks’, or lightly grilled on a beach Barbeque with a dash of lemon and Tabasco sauce. Rock Lobster is also readily available, and visitors have the opportunity to fish for their own dinner during lobster season.
 

For visitors with a bit of a sweet tooth, handcrafted Springer Chocolates must be tried, tasted and taken home. Top favourites are the liqueur, marzipan and praline varieties.
 

Local Drinks

Namibia is well known for its local beer, brewed by Namibia Breweries.

Popular beers to enjoy include Windhoek Premium Lager, Windhoek Export, Windhoek Special, Windhoek Light, Tafel Lager and Urbock.