Lantern Village Resturant — Restaurant in Dar es-Salaam

A Disappointing Experience

I had a very bad experience at this restaurant, and I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone. Despite being a menu-based restaurant (not a buffet), the owner enforced a mandatory 20,000 bill per head—just for food, excluding drinks. This charge was neither mentioned on the menu nor communicated clearly beforehand. Instead, the owner claimed there was a barely readable notice at the gate, as if that justified the hidden charge.

When questioned, he insisted that we were paying for "using his venue," as if simply sitting in his restaurant was some sort of privilege. There was no live music, no entertainment, and nothing unique to justify this excessive charge—just basic seating.

To make matters worse, the food was below average—small portions, nothing special in taste, and absolutely not worth the price. The service was equally disappointing; our waitress messed up our order twice.

In the end, we had to argue with the owner just to understand the unfair charges, and we left feeling completely disappointed. I strongly advise against visiting this place unless you enjoy being overcharged for an...

Went here with a large group and the whole experience was amazing. At first I was apprehensive seeing the variety on the menu and the sheer number of dishes but as they started appearing they were all consistently excellent.

The meats were all cooked to perfection, something I had not experienced in Tanzania where a lot of other restaurants overcooked the red meats, chicken and fish. At Lantern Village the mutton was soft, the chicken was tender and the fish was flaking just as it should be.

The thing that sets this place apart though is the creativity and flavours. Deep rich gravies with the curry, the complimentary mix of ingredients, the vibrant spices all combine with a homely service where you made to feel welcome.

If I lived in Dar es Salaam I would be a regular here and if you are a visitor wanted in authentic East African inspired Indian culinary experience those is THE place!

Special mention to the owner who has been part of the community for generations and there chefs who create magic in...

Food is good. But the management is worst. They have placed a rule of paying 20,000 tanzanian shillings per person for food. I had guests come over from abroad. Total of 5 people had dinner there. A bill of 150,000 tanzanian shillings was paid for food and drinks that we had ordered. I was approached by the owner stating that we had not met the criteria of 20,000 tanzanian shillings per person on food. I have never heard of such a rule in a restaurant. Having respected the owner's age, I did not make a fuss and honored his rule. I will never visit this restaurant again. Such a dissapointment. There are better restaurants in dar es salaam that have to enjoy a fine dinner....