The Top 10 Restaurants In Zanzibar, Africa: A Foodie’s Guide : Zanzibar, a tropical island in the inviting Indian Ocean off the coast of Tanzania, is a place rich in culture and history. This magnificent East African archipelago is renowned for its fine white sand beaches, clear waters, and rich cultural history. Zanzibar is a culinary haven with a fusion of Swahili, Indian, and Arabic cultures. Travelers can eat in restaurants that are decorated in an Arabian style, on rooftop terraces, or even on a rock in the ocean. With our list of the top ten restaurants in Zanzibar, you can enjoy dining out on the Spice Island.
Zanzibar is home to many eateries that serve mouthwatering cuisine, ranging from traditional Swahili dishes to modern fusion cuisine. In this article, we’ll examine the best eateries in Zanzibar that you absolutely must go to. And here we go…
- The Rock, Zanzibar
One of Africa’s most picturesque restaurants is probably The Rock. This restaurant is one of the best-known in Zanzibar and a high-end stop for those who want to enjoy fresh seafood recipes in exotic settings. It is literally situated on a rock in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. The restaurant, which was formerly a fisherman’s post, only has 12 tables, and they get booked up quickly, so you might want to make reservations to guarantee that you get the best seats available. The menu features a variety of seafood specialties, including octopus salad, seafood spaghetti, squid, and queen prawns, as well as vegetarian options and kid-friendly menus.
- La Taverna
La Taverna is a great choice for travelers looking for authentic Italian cuisine, and it’s where you can get homemade pasta and crisp pizza. To maintain the flavors’ authenticity and originality, everything is made with fresh ingredients, some of which are even imported from Italy. Starting with tagliatelle bolognese, Panini, and pizzas made using family recipes in Zanzibar’s only wood-fired oven, the menu features all the delectable classics of Italian cuisine. A large selection of top international wines from France, Spain, Australia, South Africa, and Chile is also available at La Taverna.
- Zanzibar Serena Inn
The historical landmarks of the sultan’s palaces and the Portuguese architectural relics that dominate Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic district, are all close to Zanzibar Serena Inn. Visitors seeking chic experiences in this eclectic African town frequently visit this small, luxurious hotel. Its rooftop terrace restaurant excels at serving fresh seafood dishes based on daily catches of kingfish, sea bream, red and white snapper, barracuda, cobia, tuna, sailfish, rock cod, lobster, prawns, calamari, and crab. It also offers picturesque views of the bay from its rooftop terrace.
- Emerson Spice Cafe
One of the best restaurants in Zanzibar is Emerson Spice Cafe, which is housed in a former Swahili sultan’s palace from the 19th century that is now a hip hostel and occasionally attracts celebrities. Consider making prompt reservations, as this small restaurant fills up quickly. Serving dinner on its rooftop tea house is a wonderful opportunity to take in the warm colors of the sunset. Lobster on green papaya salad, Tambi prawns with grilled mango, and coconut chili king fish baked in banana leaves are all on the menu.
- House of Spices
The House of Spices is among Stone Town’s most well-liked restaurants and serves as a reminder of Zanzibar’s long-standing spice industry. One of the terraces where the spices were dried before being packaged is now a restaurant. The production and sale of this priceless item have previously been carried out in the other rooms of this three-story, 18th-century house. Mediterranean cuisine and tempting pizzas are among the international dishes offered by the restaurant.
- Emerson on Hurumzi
The House of Wonders, which is Stone Town’s second-tallest structure after the Sultan’s Palace, is home to this must-try restaurant. The House of Hurumzi, which offers exceptional panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the nearby mosques, is shrouded in mystery and legend, some of which even connect its name to the freedom of black slaves. Hurumzi House is now a small hotel that has been restored to its former splendor after years of neglect. Its rooftop restaurant is one of the best places in town to enjoy the exotic and unforgettable view of Stone Town and a fresh seafood-based menu.
- Upendo
White sands, coconut trees, and breathtakingly dramatic views are all features of Upendo that you would expect from an island getaway. This restaurant, which is a part of an opulent resort and is situated on a beach in the Michamvi Peninsula in southeast Zanzibar, is a true slice of tropical paradise and a must-visit for anyone who wants to sample crab, prawn, lobster, and fish recipes while taking in one of the most breathtaking views of this African island.
- Loulou
When visiting this tiny corner of tropical paradise, Loulou is the ideal choice for those who want to combine the seafood cuisine of Zanzibar with European-style dishes. In this African culinary landscape, this restaurant has a distinctive presence. With a menu that is primarily Belgian, Loulou offers some of the best-known culinary creations from this nation, including Blanc Bleu Belge steaks and traditional waffles made with imported Belgian chocolate.
- Stone Town Café
Stone Town Cafe is a treat for those who want to take their time and observe the daily activities of the area and is conveniently situated close to the most well-known attractions in Zanzibar’s historic center. Tourists who visit this well-liked destination can help out local families in need by taking part in its charity initiative, “Pack for a Purpose.”
- Abyssinian Maritim
In the center of Stone Town, there is a traditional Ethiopian restaurant called Abyssinian Maritim that is the go-to spot for tourists who want to learn as much as they can about African cuisine. The Ethiopian practices of eating with your fingers and sharing plates, which are traditional signs of friendship and loyalty, are both adopted by this theme restaurant. Try the Ethiopian bread injera and Maritim’s renowned freshly roasted coffee, two of its specialties.
FAQ ABOUT RESTAURANTS IN ZANZIBAR
What Are the Top 3 Best Restaurants in Zanzibar?
Zanzibar has many excellent restaurants, but if we had to choose the top 3, we’d pick The Rock Restaurant, Emerson Spice, and Zanzibar Serena Inn.
What Kind Of Cuisine Can I Expect To Find In Zanzibar?
Swahili, Arabic, Indian, and African influences are combined in the cuisine of Zanzibar. You can anticipate finding dishes like grilled seafood, biryani, curries, and classic Swahili fare like ugali, mseto, and Ndizi za Nazi.
Is Zanzibar a vegetarian-friendly destination?
Yes, Zanzibar offers a wide variety of vegetarian-friendly restaurants. To make sure they can meet your dietary needs, it is, however, best to inform the restaurant ahead of time.
Do I need to make a reservation to go to restaurants?
For some eateries, including The Rock Restaurant and Emerson Spices, reservations are always advised.
FINAL THOUGHTS: WHAT IS THE BEST RESTAURANT IN ZANZIBAR?
On the island of Zanzibar, delectable food is easy to come by. There are a ton of fantastic restaurants on the island that offer mouthwatering food and top-notch service. Use this guide to choose a meal at one of these outstanding Zanzibar restaurants on your upcoming trip there. You won’t be let down, I assure you!
