Swaziland — Food and Dining
Cuisine
Restaurants are found mainly in Mbabane and in tourist areas such as the Ezulwini Valley. Portuguese cuisine (an influence from nearby Mozambique) including seafood, and especially prawns, can be found in areas like Big Bend. African staples such as stew and pap can be sampled in more remote locations. Other international food available includes Indian, German, Swiss and French.
Things to know: There are no formal licensing hours.
National specialties:
• Food stalls in the local markets sell traditional Swazi meat stew and maize meal or stamped mealies and roasted corn on the cob (in season).
• Prawns and other seafood cooked in Portuguese style.
National drinks:
• There is a good selection of spirits, beers and wines.
• Traditional Swazi beer can be tasted in rural areas, but be careful - it packs a punch!
Tipping: 10 to 15% of the bill is customary in restaurants and hotels.
Nightlife
In the main centers of Mbabane and Ezulwini Valley, there are nightclubs and discos, some with live music and cabaret. The Sun hotels are the place to head in the Ezulwini Valley for discos and bars. The main attraction in Ezulwini Valley is the casino at the Royal Swazi Hotel. There is also a cinema there.
