A quiet culinary revolution is brewing in a city famed for its safari adventures. Five Chutneys, a family-owned restaurant in Arusha, Tanzania, has carved out a unique place in the city’s food scene. Known as the only restaurant in Arusha that offers a significant selection of gluten-free and vegan Indian street food dishes, Five Chutneys is redefining what it means to dine healthily and authentically in East Africa.
The story behind Five Chutneys is as flavorful as its menu. Founded by Indian couple Jagat and Roshni Vyas, Five Chutneys emerged from their journey as lifelong vegetarians, committed to serving fresh, healthy meals inspired by India’s vibrant street food. For tourists seeking wholesome vegetarian options, the restaurant offers a refreshing break from standard safari fare. And for those with special dietary needs—whether gluten-free, vegan, or Jain—the Vyases have made it their mission to ensure every visitor feels satisfied and cared for.
A Hidden Gem for Health-Conscious Travelers
Five Chutneys stands out for its commitment to vegetarianism and remarkable range of options for those with dietary restrictions. Visitors will find gluten-free dishes, vegan options, and Jain-friendly meals (which avoid ingredients like garlic and onion) made fresh and customized to each guest’s preferences. As word of these options spread, Five Chutneys quickly rose to the top of Tripadvisor’s rankings, becoming one of Arusha’s premier restaurants since 2022—a title they’ve maintained through a unique blend of hospitality and dedication to healthy dining.
What makes Five Chutneys truly special is the hands-on approach of its owners. Jagat’s warm presence is often the first thing guests notice as they step inside. He greets every visitor with a smile, offering menu suggestions and sharing stories. Jagat’s goal is simple: to make each guest feel like family, whether they’re there for a quick bite or an extended conversation. Meanwhile, Roshni brings her culinary expertise to the kitchen, blending spices sourced from India to create authentic and fresh flavors. Each ingredient is carefully selected and prepared daily to ensure fresh, flavorful meals.
A Dining Experience with Purpose and Passion
Five Chutneys isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a platform for promoting a healthy lifestyle. Roshni’s careful selection of ingredients, sourced from local markets, adds a layer of authenticity to every meal. Her dishes are cooked without preservatives or excess oils, offering a lighter, healthier take on Indian cuisine. While most restaurants rely on bulk ingredients, Five Chutneys prides itself on using fresh, natural foods in every dish, from tangy Pani Puri to soft Aloo Paratha.
Even when new ingredients are introduced, Five Chutneys maintains its vegetarian ethos. Mayonnaise, for example, is made in-house without eggs, staying true to the restaurant’s commitment to pure vegetarian cooking. And with each dish crafted to order, tourists can request any dietary adjustments. It’s a dedication to detail that has built Five Chutneys a loyal following.
Expanding to Karatu: A New Stop for Safari-Bound Tourists
Seeing the success of Five Chutneys in Arusha, the Vyases decided to extend their reach to Karatu, near the Ngorongoro Crater. Now, travelers en route to safari parks in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Manyara have access to a freshly cooked, vegetarian meal. This new location brings the flavor of Five Chutneys to a popular tourist route and reinforces the restaurant’s mission to provide healthy, diet-conscious options to visitors across Tanzania.
Creating a Welcoming Space for Global Visitors
For Jagat and Roshni, Five Chutneys is about more than food—it’s about creating an experience that celebrates a healthy lifestyle and Indian tradition. They believe that food should be a source of nourishment and joy, a philosophy that resonates with every guest who walks through their doors. With an unwavering commitment to purity, freshness, and flexibility, Five Chutneys has proven that a small family restaurant can make a big difference, meeting the needs of health-conscious travelers while offering a genuine taste of India.
Five Chutneys is where dietary needs are met with care, every meal is crafted with purpose, and hospitality is as abundant as the flavor of the spices in each dish. For anyone visiting Tanzania, this family-run gem is more than just a restaurant; it’s an invitation to experience the premier Indian cuisine made with heart, health, and a commitment to excellence.
Published By: Aize Perez
