Zanzibar’s spice-laden breezes whisper tales of sultans and sailors, a culinary crossroads where Swahili tradition dances with global flavors.

Imagine dining on a rock amidst the turquoise tide, or savouring cardamom-infused curries under a starlit, ancient courtyard. Here, every meal is an adventure, a vibrant tapestry woven with the island’s rich history and intoxicating aromas. Here are 25 exceptional restaurants that offer unique dining experiences on the island, located in Tanzania:

1. The Rock Restaurant

Perched atop a rock in the Indian Ocean near Michamwi Pingwe, The Rock offers diners panoramic sea views. Accessible by foot during low tide or by boat during high tide, this iconic spot specializes in fresh seafood dishes like grilled lobster and octopus. Its intimate setting, with only 12 tables, ensures a personalized dining experience. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity. 

2. Emerson on Hurumzi

Located in Stone Town, Emerson on Hurumzi provides a rooftop dining experience with sweeping views of the city and ocean. The menu blends Swahili and Persian flavors, featuring dishes like Zanzibar spiced fish and date-stuffed chicken. Evening meals are often accompanied by traditional taarab music, enhancing the cultural ambiance. Advance bookings are advised for sunset dinners. 

3. Forodhani Gardens

Situated along Stone Town’s waterfront, Forodhani Gardens transforms into a bustling street food market each evening. Visitors can sample local delights such as Zanzibar pizza and freshly grilled seafood skewers. The lively atmosphere and variety make it a must-visit for an authentic taste of Zanzibari street cuisine. 

4. Lukmaan Restaurant

A favorite among locals and tourists alike, Lukmaan in Stone Town serves traditional Swahili and Tanzanian dishes. Known for its beef biryani and coconut fish curry, the restaurant offers a casual setting where guests can enjoy flavorful, home-style cooking at affordable prices. It’s particularly lively during lunchtime. 

5. Bahari Restaurant

Located on Kendwa Beach, Bahari Restaurant combines beachfront dining with a diverse menu featuring seafood, Italian, and Swahili dishes. Signature offerings include grilled prawns paired with coconut rice. Diners can relish their meals with feet in the sand while watching the sunset over the ocean, creating a romantic ambiance. 

6. Zanzibar Coffee House Café

Nestled in Stone Town, this charming café is a haven for coffee enthusiasts. Beyond its specialty brews, the café offers light meals and homemade pastries. The Swahili spiced coffee and rooftop terrace provides a serene escape from the bustling streets below, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. 

7. Emerson Spice Tea House Restaurant

Another gem from the Emerson collection, this rooftop restaurant in Stone Town offers an elegant dining experience. The menu fuses Swahili, Arabic, and Indian flavors, with standout dishes like tamarind-glazed prawns and saffron-infused rice. The panoramic views of Stone Town’s rooftops enhance the romantic setting. 

8. Upendo Beach Zanzibar

Situated in Michamvi, Upendo Beach Zanzibar blends luxury dining with a relaxed beach vibe. The menu emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, featuring dishes like tuna tartare and wood-fired pizza. Guests can enjoy oceanfront dining accompanied by live DJ sets in the evening, making it a hotspot for both day and night activities. 

9. The Silk Route

In the heart of Stone Town, The Silk Route is renowned for its rich Indian cuisine. Signature dishes include butter chicken and garlic naan, served in an interior that reflects Zanzibar’s Indian influences. The flavorful offerings and warm ambiance make it a popular choice for those craving Indian flavors. 

10. Beach House Zanzibar

Located along Stone Town’s waterfront, Beach House Zanzibar offers a blend of Mediterranean and Swahili cuisine. Diners can enjoy dishes like grilled calamari and the Swahili seafood platter while taking in ocean views and watching traditional dhows sail by. The stylish beachfront setting adds to its appeal. 

11. La Taverna

For those seeking Italian flavors, La Taverna in Stone Town delivers with its wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas. Fresh ingredients, some imported from Italy, ensure authentic tastes. The family recipes and extensive international wine list enhance the dining experience in a cozy atmosphere. 

12. House of Spices

A nod to Zanzibar’s spice trade history, House of Spices occupies an 18th-century building in Stone Town. The restaurant serves Mediterranean dishes and tempting pizzas. Its historical significance and aromatic ambiance make it a unique dining destination. 

13. Emerson Spice Café

Set within a restored 19th-century Swahili sultan’s palace in Stone Town, Emerson Spice Café offers a rooftop dining experience. The menu features dishes like lobster on green papaya salad and coconut chili kingfish baked in banana leaves. Reservations are essential due to its limited seating and popularity. 

14. Abyssinian Maritim

Bringing Ethiopian flavors to Stone Town, Abyssinian Maritim offers traditional dishes served in a communal style, emphasizing friendship and loyalty. Guests can enjoy injera with various stews and the renowned fresh-roasted Ethiopian coffee, all in a thematic setting that immerses diners in Ethiopian culture. 

15. Stone Town Café

Conveniently located near Stone Town’s popular attractions, Stone Town Café provides a relaxed environment to observe daily life. The café supports local families through its ‘Pack for a Purpose’ charity project, allowing diners to contribute to the community while enjoying their meals. 

16. Loulou Restaurant

Offering a Belgian twist in Zanzibar, Loulou Restaurant in Stone Town serves European-style dishes. The menu includes Belgian waffles, chocolate mousse made with imported Belgian chocolate, and Blanc Bleu Belge steaks, providing a unique culinary experience on the island. 

17. Swahili House Restaurant

Situated in the heart of Stone Town, Swahili House is a boutique hotel featuring a rooftop terrace restaurant. Guests can enjoy panoramic city views while dining on a fusion of Swahili and international cuisine. The menu emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering dishes like spiced grilled fish and coconut-infused curries. The historic building and its traditional décor enhance the cultural dining experience. 

18. Maru Maru Restaurant

Located atop the Maru Maru Hotel in Stone Town, this rooftop restaurant provides stunning vistas of the city and ocean. The menu blends Indian and African culinary traditions, featuring dishes such as tandoori prawns and Zanzibar biryani. The elegant setting, combined with live music on select evenings, creates a memorable dining atmosphere. 

19. Cape Town Fish Market Restaurant

Situated on the waterfront in Stone Town’s Forodhani Garden, Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar specializes in fresh seafood. The menu offers a variety of fish, prawns, calamari, and lobster sourced from local fishermen. Additionally, the restaurant features meat and vegetarian dishes, as well as sushi and Japanese-inspired options. The vibrant setting and ocean views make it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. 

20. Puzzle Coffee Shop

For coffee aficionados, Puzzle Coffee Shop in Stone Town offers a cozy retreat. Adorned with local artwork, this café serves excellent coffee made from freshly sourced Tanzanian beans, alongside homemade pastries. It’s an ideal spot to relax and recharge after exploring the city’s narrow alleys and bustling markets. 

21. Livingstone Beach Restaurant

Located near Tembo House Hotel in Stone Town, Livingstone Beach Restaurant offers a diverse menu of local and international cuisines. Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in grilled prawns, lobster, and fish curry. The beachfront setting allows diners to enjoy meals with their feet in the sand, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean. The restaurant also organizes activities like snorkeling and sunset dhow cruises. 

22. 6 Degrees South Grill

6 Degrees South is a modern restaurant in Stone Town known for its contemporary international cuisine. The menu features burgers, Italian pizzas, and salads, alongside seafood and meat options. Its relaxed atmosphere and prime location make it an excellent spot to watch the sunset over the ocean while enjoying a delicious meal. 

23. Zanzibar Serena Inn

Close to the beach and historical sites of Stone Town, Zanzibar Serena Inn offers a rooftop terrace restaurant with breathtaking views of the bay. The menu excels in fresh seafood dishes, featuring daily catches like kingfish, sea bream, and lobster. The sophisticated setting and attentive service make it a preferred choice for those seeking an upscale dining experience.  

24. Sunset Beach Bar & Restaurant

Located along a pristine stretch of coastline, Sunset Beach Bar & Restaurant is famed for its mesmerizing sunset views. The venue serves fresh, locally caught seafood alongside innovative cocktails. Its relaxed vibe, occasionally paired with live local music, makes it a top choice for romantic dinners or casual beachside gatherings.

25. Pongwe Beach Inn Restaurant

Nestled in the tranquil cove of Pongwe, this restaurant is celebrated for its laid-back beach vibe and intimate setting. The menu offers fusion dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients, including tropical fruits, freshly caught seafood, and aromatic spices—perfect for a peaceful culinary escape by the Indian Ocean.