Zanzibar Food Guide: Must-Try Dishes & Drinks

Why Explore Zanzibar’s Cuisine?

Zanzibar’s food scene is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting its history as a spice trade hub. Swahili food in Zanzibar combines fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices like cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Whether you’re savoring street food or dining by the ocean, the island’s cuisine offers something for every palate. This guide highlights what to eat in Zanzibar, from traditional dishes to refreshing local drinks, ensuring you experience the island’s culinary soul.

Must-Try Zanzibar Traditional Dishes

Zanzibar’s traditional dishes are packed with flavor, blending coastal ingredients with bold spices. Here are the top dishes you shouldn’t miss:

• Zanzibar Pizza: A street food favorite, this isn’t your typical pizza. It’s a savory crepe filled with ingredients like minced meat, eggs, veggies, or even Nutella for a sweet twist, cooked on a hot griddle.
• Urojo Soup: A tangy, spicy street food soup made with potatoes, mango, tamarind, and crispy bhajias. It’s a must-try at Forodhani Night Market.
• Biryani and Pilau: Fragrant rice dishes infused with Zanzibar’s famous spices, often served with chicken, goat, or fish. These are staples at local eateries.
• Nyama Choma: Grilled meat, often goat or beef, marinated with spices and served with sides like ugali or chapati.
• Octopus Curry: A creamy, coconut-based curry showcasing Zanzibar’s seafood and spice heritage, best enjoyed at coastal restaurants.
• Coconut Beans (Maharage ya Nazi): A vegetarian dish of beans cooked in rich coconut milk, often paired with rice or chapati.

Popular Local Drinks in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s local drinks are as refreshing as its beaches. From tropical juices to spiced teas, here’s what to sip:

• Tamarind Juice: A tangy, sweet drink made from tamarind fruit, perfect for cooling off in the tropical heat.
• Sugarcane Juice: Freshly pressed and often mixed with lime or ginger for a zesty kick.
• Coconut Water: Straight from the coconut, this hydrating drink is sold by street vendors across the island.
• Dawa Cocktail: A coastal favorite with vodka, lime, honey, and a touch of spice, inspired by Kenya’s famous cocktail.
• Tangawizi (Ginger Tea): A spiced tea with ginger and sometimes cardamom, ideal for a cozy evening.

Where to Eat in Zanzibar

Zanzibar offers a range of dining experiences, from bustling markets to upscale restaurants. Here are top spots to try:

• Forodhani Night Market: Stone Town’s evening market is a foodie paradise, offering Zanzibar Pizza, grilled seafood, and Urojo Soup.
• The Rock Restaurant: Perched on a rock in the ocean near Michamvi, this iconic spot serves seafood and Swahili-inspired dishes with stunning views.
• Lukmaan Restaurant: A Stone Town favorite for affordable, authentic dishes like biryani, pilau, and coconut-based curries.
• Emerson on Hurumzi: Enjoy rooftop dining in Stone Town with traditional Swahili set menus and live Taarab music.
• Beachfront Restaurants in Nungwi: Savor fresh seafood and cocktails at places like Essence Restaurant or Fisherman’s Grill.

Zanzibar Spices Cuisine: A Flavorful Journey

Zanzibar’s nickname, “The Spice Island,” comes from its rich spice trade history. A spice tour is a must-do to understand how cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla shape the island’s cuisine. Visit a spice plantation to see, smell, and taste these ingredients, then enjoy a home-cooked Swahili meal. Capable Africa Tours offers guided spice tours that pair perfectly with culinary exploration.

Tips for Enjoying Zanzibar’s Food Scene

To make the most of your culinary adventure, keep these tips in mind:

• Eat at Busy Spots: Choose restaurants or stalls with high turnover for fresher, safer food.
• Try Street Food Safely: Stick to cooked dishes and avoid raw salads or tap water to stay healthy.
• Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when dining in Stone Town, as Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim.
• Book Spice Tours Early: Popular tours fill up fast, so plan ahead with Capable Africa Tours.
• Carry Cash: Many local eateries, especially at markets, don’t accept cards.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s cuisine is surprisingly vegetarian-friendly. Dishes like Coconut Beans, Vegetable Curry, and Chapati are widely available. Vegan travelers can enjoy fresh fruits, coconut-based dishes, and rice at most restaurants. Stone Town’s eateries, like Lazuli Cafe, often have dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus.

Food Festivals and Cultural Events

Zanzibar’s culinary scene comes alive during festivals. The Zanzibar Food Festival (July) showcases local chefs, street food, and spice-inspired dishes. The Sauti za Busara music festival (February) also features food stalls with Swahili favorites. Check event schedules to align your visit with these vibrant celebrations.