Antananarivo (Tana) is often a mandatory stopover for anyone visiting Madagascar, the bustling capital city is an interesting mix of the melting pot of cultures that have passed through the island nation. After exploring the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga by bicycle or haggling for unique souvenirs in the Artisanal Market you may have worked up quite the appetite. To keep you abreast of the latest trendy establishments of Tana, we’ve compiled a list of the new and upcoming restaurants to visit while in the capital city.
Oyster lovers are in for a treat at l’Arrivage a French-style bistro and oyster bar which is found in the Faravohitra Quarter, about 50 meters from the Palisandre Hotel. The fresh oysters are flown in from Fort Dauphin (in Southeast Madagascar). Besides oysters, guests can enjoy more fresh seafood and French cuisine. The location is especially convenient for travellers who are staying at Le Palisandre.
Giardino di Lorenzo is a delightful garden restaurant on a hill that serves delicious Italian and Malagasy dishes. Pizza, pasta, and paninis are their specialities. The views of Tana are wonderful from the restaurant and it’s especially popular on the weekend for a leisurely afternoon lunch in charming surroundings.
Le B is a hip Buddha Bar style restaurant and bar where, in quite a modern twist for Tana, the menus are displayed on iPads. They serve fusion food mixing French cuisine and local Malagasy fare. The fish mille-feuille is highly recommended as well as the Zebu carpaccio. Guests can also enjoy a draught beer or glass of wine at the bar.
Another great restaurant fusing French cuisine and Malagasy flavours is KUDéTA at the Lapasoa Hotel. The restaurant is known for having a great chef who works with the freshest seasonal ingredients. The decor pays homage to Madagascar’s history and culture with beautiful photographs and paintings on the wall, as wells as traditional woodwork.
For travellers with a craving for authentic Indian food, La Terrasse Exotic on the 7th floor of the Anjary Hotel is a great spot to enjoy some curries, naan bread and lassis as well as good vegetarian food. The windows have a good view of the city and the TV screens on the wall play Bollywood movies.
As you can see there’s something for everyone depending on your taste and what you’re in the mood for. When dining in the evening it is better to book a taxi for a door to door service as a safety precaution.
