Wondering where to eat in Zanzibar on your island trip?
Whether you’re after oceanfront restaurants, street food stalls, or romantic sunset spots, this Zanzibar food guide reveals 12 must-try places to eat that will surprise you with flavor, charm, and atmosphere.
Still not sure where to eat in Zanzibar? Keep reading — these tips and spots will help you decide.
What to expect from food in Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s food culture is a vibrant blend of flavors and influences. If you love exotic and warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, or chili, you’re in for a treat — but don’t worry, the food isn’t overwhelmingly spicy. The Swahili cuisine combines African, Arab, Persian, and Indian influences, resulting in simple dishes made special through preparation and spice.
Seafood stands out across the island — grilled octopus, prawns, and fish curries are commonly served with rice or fries on large shared plates. Surprisingly, vegetables are not often part of the dish.
What struck me most was that there isn’t a single signature “Zanzibar dish”. Every meal felt like a flavorful journey — one day you’d eat pilau rice or chapati with Indian flavors, the next a grilled chicken with African seasoning, or an Arabic-style coconut curry.
Locals rarely eat in tourist restaurants. Instead, they grab food from tiny street vendors, open-air stands, or cook at home. We avoided cooked street food due to hygiene concerns, but the tempting aromas from the stands were hard to ignore. That said, we always bought fruit from local sellers — fresh mango and pineapple were peeled and packed right in front of us.
In Nungwi, food is everywhere — you don’t need to look for a place, just walk and choose what smells good. The stands aren’t listed on Google Maps, but trust me, you’ll find plenty of options from grilled chicken to fresh corn, from sunrise to long after sunset.
12 must-try places if you’re wondering where to eat in Zanzibar
1. Mamma Mia (Nungwi)
If you’re wondering where to eat in Zanzibar for sunset views and authentic Italian food, Mamma Mia should be at the top of your list.
Located right by the ocean in Nungwi, this charming restaurant serves some of the best pizza in Zanzibar, along with creamy gelato and tropical cocktails.
You can even pay by card without extra charges — a rare convenience on the island. The staff is welcoming, the atmosphere is relaxed yet stylish, and the view during golden hour is absolutely magical.
Tip: Make a reservation around sunset — it’s the perfect dinner spot after a beach day.
Check out Mamma Mia’s official website here to see their full menu and opening hours.
2. MJ Café (Nungwi)
While the view isn’t anything special, MJ Café makes up for it with delicious smoothies, affordable prices, and a friendly local team.
We came back here multiple times during our stay. The food is simple but flavorful, and the price–quality ratio is one of the best we found in Zanzibar.
3.Pizza Gourmet by Makofi (Nungwi)
Tucked behind the beach, this cozy open-air pizzeria offers wood-fired pizzas in the $12–20 range. You can watch your food being made in their mini show kitchen.
It’s a relaxed, fun spot — great for casual dinners with a touch of local charm.
For more information or to browse the full menu, visit the MakoFi Zanzibar website.
4.Rafiki’s Chickies (Nungwi)
Looking for the best fried chicken in Nungwi? Rafiki’s Chickies delivers crispy, juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken with a local Zanzibari flair. The casual, welcoming vibe makes it a favorite among both locals and tourists. Pair your chicken with their delicious sides like fries or fresh salads for a fulfilling meal after a day at the beach. Don’t miss out on this authentic, no-fuss spot that keeps everyone coming back
5. ZaVa Restaurant (Nungwi)
ZaVa is a popular restaurant in Nungwi known for its beautifully plated dishes and tropical decor. The seafood is fresh, the portions are generous, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet classy. It’s a great option for a sunset dinner by the ocean.
6. Kinanda Beach Club (Nungwi)
This beach club offers a modern, buffet-style dining concept where you can build your own meals. Fresh ingredients, beautiful beach views, and a laid-back vibe make it a unique experience compared to traditional restaurants.
For more details or to plan your visit, check out the Kinanda Beach Club’s official website.
7. Terrace Nungwi
Right next to the ocean, Terrace Nungwi is one of the most stylish places to eat in the area. With a modern menu and beautiful views, it’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a relaxed lunch with a view.
8.German Bakery (Nungwi)
Found just off the main road in Nungwi, this bakery is a hidden gem for sweet lovers. They offer freshly baked cookies, some of which are vegan — quite rare in Zanzibar! If you’re craving something other than tropical fruit, this place is worth a morning stop.
9.Local fruit stands (various locations)
Fresh fruit is a big part of the Zanzibar food culture, and we always bought ours from street vendors.
Mangoes, pineapples — they peeled and packed them for us right on the spot. They were juicy, full of flavor, and made for the perfect on-the-go snack. (Just skip the oranges bitter and dry)
10.Essence Restaurant (Kendwa)
Essence in Kendwa is a must-try if you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience. With a menu that blends local ingredients and international flair, and a serene beachfront setting, this is a top pick for a special night out.
You can explore the menu or make a reservation via the official Essence Restaurant website.
11. Sativa Cafe (Jambiani)
Sativa Cafe offers vibrant, colorful meals, great coffee, and a friendly atmosphere. Their smoothie bowls and brunch options are favorites among travelers, and the prices are very reasonable for the quality.
12.Emerson spice tea house (Stone Town)
This spot is more than just a café or restaurant—it’s an experience. With its stunning rooftop terrace, it’s one of the best places to catch the sunset in Stone Town.
They serve teas infused with local spices, light snacks, and refreshing drinks. The atmosphere is unique, and the authentic decor is truly captivating.
Whether you’re craving tropical fruit on the go, oceanfront pizza at sunset, or a candle-lit fine dining experience, Zanzibar’s food scene offers something for every mood and moment.
Personally, what I loved most was the contrast: from grabbing a spicy chapati on the street to sipping mango smoothies in trendy beach cafés.
Don’t be afraid to explore beyond your hotel – follow your nose, and you’ll discover Zanzibar’s true flavor, one bite at a time.
For an unforgettable dining experience, check out the Emerson Spice Rooftop Tea House. Located in a beautifully restored historic building, this hidden gem combines Zanzibari elegance with breathtaking views over Stone Town. Make sure to book ahead—the sunset dinners here are a sought-after highlight.
Practical tips for eating out in Zanzibar
Before you decide where to eat in Zanzibar, here are a few practical things to know that will make your dining experience smoother.
Zanzibar’s dining scene is diverse and flavorful — but it’s helpful to know a few practical things before you go. Whether you’re grabbing lunch at a beach café or trying out street food in Stone Town, these local insights will help you enjoy your meals safely and fully.
Cash or card?
From our experience, cash is the most reliable way to pay in Zanzibar. While some mid-range and upscale restaurants do accept card payments, many of them charge additional transaction fees — sometimes without prior notice.
We found it much easier (and cheaper) to pay with Tanzanian Shillings, as paying in US dollars often came with poor exchange rates. Local markets, beach vendors, and street food stalls almost always operate on a cash-only basis, so you’ll want to be prepared.
Tip: Always carry enough local currency for the day, and keep small bills handy for tips, fresh fruit, or small souvenirs.
Restaurant opening hours
Time runs a bit differently on the island. While sunset dinners are popular and most restaurants open in the evening, lunch hours can vary widely. Some places may close during the hottest part of the day or open late.
It’s best to check opening hours online or ask locals before heading out — especially in more remote villages.
Vegetarian and vegan options
Traditional Swahili dishes are usually centered around seafood or meat, and vegetables are rarely the star of the plate. However, vegetarian and vegan-friendly cafés are becoming more common, especially in touristy areas like Nungwi, Kendwa, or Stone Town. Look out for smoothie bowls, lentil curries, or international fusion spots.
Tip: Ask if dishes are made with ghee or animal stock, as even vegetable-based meals may contain these.
Drink bottled water only
The tap water in Zanzibar is not safe to drink, and even locals rely on bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.
Be careful with ice in drinks or smoothies — only consume them in places that use purified or filtered water (usually mid-range or upscale cafés).
We always bought sealed bottled water and avoided drinks made with crushed ice.
Street food hygiene
Zanzibar’s street food scene is tempting and aromatic, but hygiene standards vary.
If you’re unsure, stick to grilled items (like corn or chicken), freshly cooked chapati, or tropical fruit you can see being peeled in front of you.
We personally avoided cooked meals from open-air stands due to hygiene concerns but bought fruit daily — the mangoes and pineapples were fresh, juicy, and safely prepared on the spot.
Tip: Always carry hand sanitiser
Expect slow service — island time is real
Meals are usually made fresh, and that takes time. Don’t expect fast food-style service — especially if you’re dining at small, local spots. Use the wait as a chance to enjoy the views, chat with locals, or simply relax.
What not to expect from dining in Zanzibar
Don’t expect fast service- Island time is real. Meals are made fresh and from scratch, so don’t be surprised if you wait 30–45 minutes, even for something simple. That’s just how things flow here — slow, relaxed, and without pressure.
Tip: Use the time to enjoy the view, take a sunset photo, or chat with locals. It’s part of the charm.
- Don’t expect the full menu to be available
Menus in Zanzibar are more of a guideline than a guarantee. Depending on the catch of the day or supply chain delays, restaurants often run out of certain dishes. Especially when it comes to seafood, what’s available changes daily.
It’s not bad service — it’s just part of island life.
- Don’t expect lots of vegetables
Swahili meals are usually based around meat, rice, and seafood. Vegetables are often minimal or completely absent — and salads are usually simple (think: lettuce + tomato).
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, it’s best to stick to cafés and international-style spots that cater to special diets.
- Don’t expect Western hygiene everywhere
Especially when it comes to street food. Trust your gut (literally) and choose wisely.
- Don’t expect card payment
Even if they have a POS terminal, it might not work (no signal, power cut). Always bring cash.
Final thought: Zanzibar may not offer Michelin-star service, but it makes up for it with heart, flavor, and authenticity. Set your expectations right, go with the flow, and you’ll enjoy every bite so much more.
How to choose where to eat in Zanzibar
With so many tempting spots scattered across the island, choosing where to eat in Zanzibar can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re visiting for the first time. Here are a few tips based on our own experience to help you make the best choices while traveling.
Don’t rely too much on Google reviews
While reviews can help, we noticed that some great spots weren’t even listed on Google Maps, and others had low ratings due to irrelevant complaints (like “too slow” — which is normal here!).
Trust your instincts. If it smells good, looks busy, and feels inviting — give it a try.
Location matters
Beachfront restaurants often come with beautiful views but higher prices. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal, walk just a few minutes inland — you’ll often find hidden gems with better value and more local flavor.
That’s exactly how we found MJ Café in Nungwi — it’s not right on the beach, and there’s no ocean view, but the smoothies were amazing, the food was simple and tasty, and the prices were some of the best we saw in Zanzibar.
Sometimes, skipping the view means discovering something more authentic.
Watch where the locals go
One of the best signs of a good eatery is when it’s full of locals. If you see Zanzibaris queuing up at a food stall or gathering around a small café, chances are the food is fresh, affordable, and full of authentic flavor.
And don’t be shy to ask! Locals are usually very friendly and happy to recommend their favorite spots — whether it’s the best place for grilled chicken, mango smoothies, or pilau rice.
Some of our best meals came from asking a beach vendor or a tuk-tuk driver where they like to eat.
No matter where you eat in Zanzibar, the key is to embrace the unexpected — that’s where the real flavor lies.
Final tip: You don’t need a fancy setting to have an unforgettable meal. In Zanzibar, the best food is often served in the most unexpected places — follow your nose, trust your gut, and enjoy the discovery.
Final thoughts on where to eat in Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s food scene is not about luxury or perfection — it’s about connection, simplicity, and soul. Whether you’re tasting fresh mango from a beachside vendor, sharing grilled octopus under the stars, or sipping a tropical smoothie at a colorful café, every meal feels like a story in itself.
What made eating in Zanzibar so special for us wasn’t just the flavors — though the cinnamon, coconut, chili and lime certainly stole the show — but the atmosphere around it all. The slow pace, the hospitality, the unexpected recommendations from strangers… it all added up to unforgettable memories.
So if you’re still wondering where to eat in Zanzibar, my honest answer is: start with this list, then let your curiosity guide you. Try something new. Ask someone local. Trust your senses. You’ll likely find your favorite dish in the most unassuming place — and that’s the magic.
In the end, the best way to find out where to eat in Zanzibar is to stay curious, stay open, and stay hungry.
- And remember: food in Zanzibar isn’t just a meal — it’s part of the island’s rhythm. Once you let go of expectations and embrace the moment, you’ll taste more than just what’s on your plate.
- Planning your trip? Don’t miss my guide on 10 Best Day Trips in Zanzibar.
- Already in the mood for beach time? Here are Zanzibar’s Most Beautiful Beaches worth visiting.
- If you’re visiting for the first time, don’t skip my Zanzibar Travel Tips You’ll Wish You Knew.
