Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island, and its cooking shows it. Swahili food blends African, Arabian, Indian and Portuguese influences, and uses coconut, spices and the freshest seafood.
What to try
- Grilled fish and seafood: Caught that morning, served simply with lime and spices.
- Octopus in coconut: Tender and creamy, a coastal favorite.
- Biryani and pilau: Fragrant spiced rice with meat or fish.
- Urojo: A tangy Zanzibar mix soup with potatoes, chutney and crunchy toppings.
- Zanzibar pizza: A folded, fried street-food parcel with egg, meat and cheese, or sweet fillings.
- Mchuzi wa samaki: Fish in a coconut and tamarind sauce.
- Mandazi: Lightly spiced fried bread, ideal at breakfast with tea.
Where to eat
In Stone Town, the Forodhani Gardens night market sets out grills, sugarcane juice and snacks beside the sea each evening. Rooftop restaurants offer sunset views, and the old town's small cafes serve Swahili lunches. Along the coast, beach restaurants and hotel dining rooms serve fresh seafood, and many have a local menu.
Drinks
Try fresh coconut water, sugarcane juice, passion fruit and tamarind juice. Spiced tea (chai) often includes cardamom, cinnamon or ginger, and Swahili coffee is served in small cups. Local beer and wine are sold in hotels and tourist restaurants.
A spice tour
A visit to a spice farm lets you see, smell and taste cloves, vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon growing, and often ends with a fresh fruit and lunch. It is one of the best ways to understand the island's cooking.
Tips
- Eat where food is fresh and busy.
- Ask about spice level, as dishes are usually mild to medium.
- Tell us about allergies or dietary needs and we will arrange suitable meals.