The Desi Bistro ~ Indian Restaurant & Bar — Restaurant in Dar es-Salaam

We recently had the pleasure of dining at Desi Bistro in Dar es Salaam, and it was a remarkable experience from start to finish. Nestled in the vibrant Masaki area, this restaurant offers an authentic slice of India with a delightful Tanzanian twist. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Desi Bistro is a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine Indian flavors coupled with a warm and lively atmosphere.

Ambiance: The moment you step into Desi Bistro, you’re greeted with an inviting atmosphere that immediately sets the tone for an enjoyable evening. The decor is thoughtfully curated to reflect the rich cultural heritage of India, with a modern touch that makes it both elegant and comfortable. What really sets the ambiance apart, though, is the live music that fills the air. During my visit, a live band played an array of sufi style music, adding an extra layer of charm to the dining experience. It’s clear that the restaurant goes the extra mile to create a memorable environment, making it more than just a meal, but a full sensory experience.

Service: The service at Desi Bistro is top-notch. The staff is attentive without being overbearing, knowledgeable about the menu, and eager to make recommendations. Our server was particularly helpful in guiding us through the extensive menu, ensuring that we ordered a well-balanced meal that catered to everyone’s tastes. The promptness of the service was also commendable, with our food arriving at just the right intervals, allowing us to enjoy each dish at a leisurely pace.

Food: Now, onto the star of the show—the food. We began our meal with the corn cheese tikka, a perfect appetizer that was both crispy and creamy, with the sweetness of the corn beautifully complemented by the richness of the cheese. This dish set the stage for what was to come—a feast of flavors that stayed true to traditional Indian cooking.

The butter chicken was everything you’d hope for in this classic dish—tender chicken pieces bathed in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce, with just the right amount of spice. Paired with the garlic naan, it was an indulgent treat that left us craving more. The chicken tikka was another highlight, perfectly grilled with a smoky flavor that was enhanced by the accompanying mint chutney.

The paneer maharani, a vegetarian delight, was equally impressive. The paneer was soft and fresh, and the gravy was a complex blend of spices that was both comforting and exciting. It was a bit too spicy but that was okay for us. We rounded off our meal with a serving of fragrant basmati rice, which was the ideal base to soak up all the delicious gravies.

To wash it all down, we enjoyed a lassi that was refreshingly cool and balanced in sweetness. It was the perfect palate cleanser amidst the rich and spicy dishes.

Overall Experience: Desi Bistro is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Indian cuisine. The combination of excellent food, superb service, and a vibrant atmosphere makes it a standout choice for dining in Dar es Salaam. Whether you’re there for a quiet meal with family or a lively evening with friends, Desi Bistro caters to all occasions with finesse.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for an authentic Indian dining experience in Dar es Salaam, Desi Bistro should be at the top of your list. From the first bite to the last note of the live music, everything about this place is designed to delight. I’m already looking forward to...

Food was amazing, ambience was nice. They have bollywood night mostly on every Saturday. Service was also up to the mark. Must visit place

About recent may 2024 visits- We enjoyed live band a lot. Indian band is just stupendous, the singer, both guitarists and drumist are pro.

About food- Sorry to say but disappointed this time. We ordered- veg manchow soup, paneer chilly, paneer Tikka, cheese corn tikki, crispy masala roomali roti, cheese toast, masala chips. And everything tasted different and the bad smell was of palm oil.

We have complained the staff in our last 2 visits, but they didn't...

Desi Bistro Bar and Restaurant in Dar Es Salaam is an absolute gem! The Indian cuisine is incredibly tasty, and the ambiance is top-notch. The music adds a delightful touch, creating a perfect dining experience. From the moment you step in, you're greeted with an impressive environment that complements the fantastic flavors. Highly recommended for anyone craving an authentic and delightful Indian dining experience in...