The Slow Leopard on Chole Road, Dar es Salaam is unequivocally the most popular bar amongst young expatriates on the Msasani peninsula. Owned by a pair of well-travelled young men (Eddie the Kiwi, and Henry the Brit), it is the recognized watering hole for the local rugby team, netball cohort, peninsula runners, as well as starting stomping ground for most young backpackers in the area.
While their Dar es Salaam location has more than ample room for backpackers and travelers venturing into Tanzania, their most recent development in Kilwa Masoko, Lindi region, holds even more prowess in this area.
Why Kilwa?
Much more rustic, and still holding an unspoken wildness to it, Kilwa is the haven of local fishermen, snorkelers and boating enthusiasts. The perfect setting for backpackers, or locals just wanting a bit of peace and quiet. For those not wanting to sit back and enjoy the coastline ALL day, the Slow Leopard team can organise snorkelling trips, fishing charters, or visits to the famous Kilwa Ruins via the resident boats. Depending on whether you are interested in a more relaxing, luxurious holiday, or a true backpackers, ‘the Slow’ cam accommodate; offering accommodation and tourism options at both Mwangaza Hideaway, as well as their own backpacker location, right on the beach.
Differing slightly from the somewhat-more-developed South Beach, Kilwa retains a true sense of the Swahili coastline; cellphone reception can be sketchy at times, power outages are not uncommon, and the lack of development gives holidaymakers a chance to catch their breath after the non-stop bustle of Dar es Salaam.
How’s the food?
The boys take great pride in their food, and feeding people well. The chefs at all Slow Leopard locations are Tanzanians, and they successfully incorporate an eclectic mixture of East African flavors with more well-established staples. The majority of the ingredients are sourced locally, making sure you get the most life in each bite!
At their Chole road location, check out their specials menu for the most interesting finds. Failing that, their regular menu has a solid tried-and-tested range of burgers and salads to suit most palettes. Not to mention breakfast foods, snacking staples, and tid-bits to tide you over until dinner.
For info on Kilwa food? Chat with Henry about what is currently on the menu, as it rotates depending on the season and availability.
To add icing to the cake; they can and do cater for a number of dietary requirements (I can vouch, as the resident vegan of the area!)
Who will be there?
While you are quite likely to see either Henry or Eddie manning the fort in person, it is also not improbable that you will be hosted completely by their wonderful staff members, who are packing friendliness and helpfulness in abundance.
For more information on the Slow Leopard, or if you are interested in coming to one of the famous Slow Sessions at their Chole Road location, check out their Facebook page and Instagram.
