Unique Dishes to Taste in Zanzibar : Tanzania offers unforgettable safari experiences. You can marvel at its famous wildlife destinations, like Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, or hike Kilimanjaro. While the mainland is blessed with wildlife, its semi-autonomous state, Zanzibar, is well-known for its pristine beaches, rich cultural history, and diverse marine wildlife.
If you’re looking for a destination to relax, Zanzibar is the top priority in East Africa. In this article, we’ll unveil some unique dishes to try while in Zanzibar. Let’s dive in!
Zanzibar Pizza
Zanzibar Pizza is entirely different from the original concept of pizza. It’s a savory flatbread mostly referred to as a crispy crepe, and it’s filled with various ingredients. These can be beef, chicken, onions, and tomatoes; the possibilities are endless.
Its flavors and ingredients tell the story of Swahili, Indian, and Arab all mixed together. Thus, the flavor with assorted textures is magnificent. Any guest should try this food. Whether classic combination or more adventurous, the Zanzibar Pizza would satisfy all your taste buds.
Mishkaki
Treat yourself to a street walk, stop by a local food point, and taste the Mishkaki. It’s among those favorite street foods in Zanzibar. It is a skewer of delicious grilled meat, usually beef or chicken. The meat is marinated in the aromatic spice mix of cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
When grilled over charcoal, it cooks the meat tender and juice, while a smoky char caramelizes and adds depth to the dish. Mishkaki is often served with a side of kachumbari (refreshing tomato and onion salad) and warm, fluffy chapati. This humble yet pleasing meal is a culinary gem that echoes the vibrancy of Zanzibar’s street food.
Biryani and Pilau
Biryani and pilau are the two famous rice meals on the island. It’s a fragrant rice course interlayered with tender meat, aromatic spices, and vegetables. The rice is prepared in a tasty broth, thereby making it moist and full of flavor.
On the other hand, pilau is rice, much drier, and is so often seasoned with cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Usually, these meals are served with raita, a yogurt-based sauce.
Octopus soup
This soup is common in the coastal regions of Tanzania. It’s a delicious soup prepared with tender pieces of octopus in a tasteful broth mixed with some spices like ginger, garlic, and chili peppers.
Sometimes, fresh herbs like coriander and parsley may be used for garnishing to add freshness.
Coconut bean maharage
The coconut bean maharage is simply a mouthwatering dish. This is one hearty stew of tender beans in rich and creamy coconut sauce.
The spices give the meal depth and complexity, and the coconut milk provides a subtle sweetness. It is often served with rice or ugali (a maize flour porridge).
Urojo Soup
Probably the most popular street food in Zanzibar, Urojo Soup is a fizzy hot spicy soup. This soup is made from potatoes, tomatoes, and spices like chili peppers and cumin. The soup is usually finished with fresh herbs like coriander and parsley.
Urojo Soup is normally served with a side dish of bread or chapati—just perfect for sopping up the flavorsome broth.
Mandazi
Mandazi are sweet, fluffy doughnuts and deep-fried. They’re a popular snack in Zanzibar. A dough is simply made of wheat flour, sugar, and yeast. It’s then cut into small portions and then deep-fried until golden brown.
Mandazi is usually served for breakfast. And more often, it goes with a cup of tea or with coffee.

Zanzibar chocolate
Zanzibar Chocolate is manufactured from local bean varieties of cocoa with a peculiar flavor. These are usually mixed with spices like cardamom and cinnamon that give it an exotic flavor.
Whether you want dark, milk, or white chocolate, Zanzibar chocolate is a rich delight to be indulged in.
Fresh seafood
Located along the coast, Zanzibar has all the fresh seafood that any seafood lover can ever dream of, from grilled fish to succulent lobster; the options just go on.
Normally, seafood can be prepared through grilling, frying, or steaming and is usually served with either chips or rice. Be you a gourmet in seafood or just looking for something new, you really should not miss this fresh seafood stored for you by Zanzibar.
Best places for local foods in Zanzibar
Taste the delicious dishes in the busy streets of Zanzibar. Local restaurants will serve you many options for lunch, dinner, or just snacks. The Stone Town has vibrant streets that cook delicious dishes.
The Forodhani Gardens also offer delicious dishes. It’s nestled in the heart of Stone Town. This open market is charming. You’ll meet local restaurants offering unique culinary experiences.
If you haven’t tried your experience with local dishes, we suggest you should. Focus East Africa Tours will craft your wonderful trip either on the mainland or in Zanzibar.