Yaoundé, the bustling capital of Cameroon, offers a vibrant dining scene that reflects its cultural diversity. From upscale hotel eateries blending international flavours with local staples like ndolè and grilled seafood, to casual spots serving hearty Cameroonian dishes and international cuisines, the city's restaurants cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're a visitor exploring the hilly landscape or a local seeking a new spot, Yaoundé's food options highlight fresh ingredients, bold spices, and a mix of African, European, and Asian influences.
Our Cameroon group tours visit Yaoundé, so if this list perks your interest, then check out our Cameroon group tour dates on our website.
1. Le Safoutier
Location & Hours: Hilton Hotel, Boulevard du 20 Mai, Yaoundé, Cameroon. Open 24 hours daily
At Le Safoutier, you’re stepping into the more polished side of Yaoundé dining: stylish décor, international buffet spreads, and touches of Cameroonian cuisine like ndolè and grilled gambas. It commands a higher price than many local spots, but you pay for ambiance, service, and variety. The buffet starts at around 25,000 CFA. If you want a refined evening out—this is a good bet.
2. Le Biniou
Location & Hours: BP 2083, near Lycée Charles Atangana, Bastos, Yaoundé, Cameroon. Open Tuesday–Friday 11:00 AM–11:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday 12:00 PM–11:00 PM; closed Mondays.
If you prefer something comfortable and somewhat familiar (European/French brasserie style) in Yaoundé, Le Biniou is a safe and pleasant choice. The leafy terrace and familiar menu - steak au poivre, wood-fired pizzas, salads - make it good for a lunch or relaxed dinner. It’s rustic and warm and pricing is reasonable with mains around 11,000 CFA.
3. La Paillote
Location & Hours: 452 Rue Joseph Essono Balla (Elig-Essono), Yaoundé, Cameroon. Open daily 12:00 PM–9:00 PM.
La Paillote is one of the go-to spots in Yaoundé for Vietnamese/Asian cuisine, something a little different from the usual. Famous for their pho and spring rolls, it is a surprisingly good standard and authentic for a Vietnamese restaurant in West Africa. Tucked away in a lane off the main road, which can make it slightly tricky to find.
4. Tchop & Yamo (Tchopetyamo)
Location & Hours: Rue 1.750, Nouvelle Route Bastos, Yaoundé, Cameroon (note: multiple locations across Yaoundé and other cities). Open daily 6:30 AM–11:00 PM.
Fast, casual, local flavour, large portions, great value. Tchop & Yamo mixes Cameroonian dishes with fast-food efficiency. Beignets, beans, fried chicken, hearty juices, and salads starting at 1,500 FCFA. So popular, Tchop & Yamo is now a chain with branches in Douala and Bafoussam.
5. Maison Blanche
Location & Hours: Rue Rodolphe Abessolo (Montée Mvog Ada), Yaoundé, Cameroon. Open daily 11:00 AM–12:00 AM.
For grilled fish, seafood, and a very Cameroonian dining experience, Maison Blanche stands out. You pick your fresh fish or seafood at the front and choose how you want it grilled or braised—a process that many diners appreciate for its authenticity. The price is moderate relative to upscale places, and the setting is comfortable though less polished than high-end hotel restaurants.
6. Cercle Vert
Location & Hours: Multiple branches; main one at Carrefour Hippodrome, Yaoundé, Cameroon. Open daily 11:00 AM–10:00 PM.
A beloved local chain for wallet-friendly African fare, Cercle Vert serves up generous portions of grilled chicken, fufu with eru sauce, and veggie sides in a clean, casual setting—mains hover around 1,500–2,500 FCFA. A great place to sample purely local fare at great prices. That being said it can get very busy due to the great value.
Yaoundé's restaurants showcase the culture and history of Cameroon. Local African staples combined with European styles and influences from other immigrant communities. From authentic local eats to sophisticated international fare. Whether you're indulging in fresh grilled fish at Maison Blanche or enjoying a themed buffet at Le Safoutier, there's no shortage of flavourful discoveries.
Check out our other African group tours available now on our website and we will show you all our hidden gem food spots across the continent!
To secure your spot, send us an email to [email protected] and we will answer any questions you have.
