This is a very good Black owned restaurant in downtown Newark. The food was amazing. The drinks were strong and tasty. I loved the art and decor. Plus our server was attentive and friendly.

The ambiance is always a hit at Swahili Village. There is always amazing music playing. The decor is a celebration of black and African culture. The staff is very helpful. Last night after a rough week, 5 of us got together to eat, drink and unwind. The jollof rice is a must have. The lamb was cooked to perfection. The shrimp was very tasty as well. The beef was tender. The drinks were described by our waiter Freddy as sweet but strong which was not a lie. They were very strong. The only downside to Swahili Village is the parking however it is worth it! Car pool or take an Uber. You will not regret eating here.

Swahili Village is a gem. I will forever thank my cousin for bringing me here. The interior is better in person, and the low lights contribute to it being a sultry, brown, and glowing environment. The drinks were 10/10 and the food is somehow even better. I had the suya and goat stew. The suya is a meat lovers dream; perfectly marinated, salted and charred steak cubes. I keep thinking about that dish in particular. The goat stew had an amazing and deep flavor. The music was afro-beats and a DJ came in to make the vibe even better. He was playing afrobeat hits, and even Kompa. It is on my list of places to come back to soon

Came here after work with some coworkers. Great atmosphere, music and service. Appetizers were the best part and the meal was decent. Drinks were also good! There were even a few vegetarian options for my vegetarian coworker.

I love this place on first visit. One evening before Christmas and the food was amazing along with the service. Great time to eat and make my show. Going back soon. I love the dim back too. Sexy atmosphere and music.

I came to pick up trays of pilau rice and collard greens for my cousin's wedding reception. What immediately caught my eye was the artwork in the lobby and throughout the restaurant. The music was at an even level where you could enjoy it and your company at the same time. I also noticed how spacious it is inside, with multiple areas to dine at. In terms of the food, the rice and collard greens paired well with the other dishes we had. I look forward to dining here to get the full experience.

Easy Yelp to make. Great location if you are looking for a place to eat and/or have drinks near NJPac. It is literally across the street! Great hospitality from the moment you open the door and walk in, to when you leave. Food and drinks were great but I mostly enjoyed the vibe. Everyone was dressed nice and just having a good time everywhere you looked. I look forward to visiting again. Oh and great vegetarian options

Dope experience! I was entertaining out of town colleagues after a busy week at work and wanted to make our last evening memorable. My cousins suggested this place and it hit the spot in almost every way. We spent the week hosting race equity retreats so how fitting to end it at an African restaurant surrounded by beautiful Black people?! Restaurant is located right across from NJPAC. Theoretically there is street parking but on a Friday evening good luck. We ended up parking across the street in the event lot. $28 ouchies but work is gonna slide me that reimbursement so I'll deal. Your tolerance for that pricing may be understandably reduced. The vibe is great - I was initially concerned that me at 44 entertaining folks who have a solid 15-25 years on me would not be in alignment with what had been described to me as a "festive" atmosphere but I was happy to see the intergenerational flavor of the place: teens, couples, elders, girls night, aunties, toddlers. Yes please! Food: The only African food I've really had is Ethiopian which I love. Didn't know what to expect from the flavors here but it all looked and tasted fantastic. I got the steak tips with jollof and collards. My colleagues got the red snapper which was gorgeously presented and a tilapia salad and sides. Prices: Whew! But I've eaten less quantity and quality for way more so I can dig it. $8 for a soda with refills smh. Picture: A camera person comes around and takes photos of you. You think you won't purchase it bc you can take a photo on your phone for free but something about the mood, the Blackness, and the psychological safety coaxes you to spend. The frames are nice lol. Fat things: The chair situation is varied. I was not impressed with the bar stool sturdiness so we opted for a floor table and were taken to a booth. The clearance between the table and bench was laughable imo and would have made a nice shelf for my breasts. Finally, in true Goldilocks fashion we got a regular table. Note to restaurant: Make more of those please!! They're accommodating for a wider range of bodies and disabilities. I will be back. I will spend a lot of money. I will be surrounded by Black people. And I will be happy.