With a mixed cultural heritage, the freshest seafood and a tradition of great spices, Zanzibar is a foodie’s dream. Here we take a look at some of the most drool-worthy restaurants on the island, from casual beach grills, to elegant high-end eateries.

1. Bahari Lounge  

Part of the Pongwe Bay Resort is this stunning restaurant overlooking beach. You can enjoy the delicious flavors of Swahili cuisine made by some of the best local chef in Zanzibar.

2. Lazuli 

For good wholesome food head to Lazuli. This cute restaurant sell everything from freshly squeezed juices to yummy wraps at reasonable prices. Perfect for lunch or breakfast with your family.

3. The Rock  

On a rock off the shores of the beautiful Michanwi Pingw Beach, The Rock Restaurant is the most unique restaurant in Zanzibar. Feel the fresh breeze while you eat some of Zanzibar’s finest seafood. Reservations are essential as this restaurant is so popular.

4. Cafe at Emerson Spice  

With lunched served daily in the downstairs cafe and dinner and sunset cocktails served on the rooftop Tea House (by reservation only), this restaurant has a lot to offer. With an eclectic menu offset by the beautiful sunset from the rooftop, you’ll be coming back for more.

5. Mercury’s Bar & Restaurant

One of the only restaurants in Stone Town with a seaside location, Mercury’s has amazing views of the harbour. Not only is the view amazing, but the food is absolutely delicious too.

6. House of Spices  

With a wide variety of dishes including wood fired pizza, vegetarian dishes and freshly caught fish dishes flavoured with spices that are dried at the House of Spice, this restaurants food is scrumptious.

7. The Silk Route Restaurant

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner serving a mixture between local and Indian cuisine including fish curries, coconut fish and butter chicken with naan. Also in Stone Town, the restaurant is romantic and comfortable with nightly entertainment for guests.

8. Mangapwani Beach Grill and Restaurant 

Situated in the less popular north west coast of Zanzibar near the Mangapwani Slave Caves, is this simple restaurant. If you want freshly caught seafood beach BBQ then this is the place for you.

9. Mtoni Marine’s Restaurant and Sports Bar 

With a reputation of being one of East Africa’s finest restaurants and  dinners an amazing dining experience. With the sounds of resident band playing in the background, you can dine by candle-light under the stars right on the beach.

10. Terrace Seafood Restaurant at Zanzibar Serena Hotel 

With beautiful decor on this roof terrace restaurant, you’ll get an eyeful when dining here. The restaurant has a brilliant selection of freshly caught seafood at a reasonable price.

11. La Taverna  

With freshly baked bread, off-the-boat seafood, delicious coffee and great pastas, this Italian restaurant offers a breath of fresh air and an alternative to the standard local cuisine. They also have an excellent selection of wines from all over the world.

12. 236 Hurumzi 

On the rooftop of the second tallest building in Stone Town, the House of Wonders, this restaurant offers amazing panoramic views of the town below. The menu, like most menus in Stone Town, is seafood-based and delicious.

13. Upendo 

If you’re looking for an authentic island experience then Upendo is the place for you. Part of a resort on the Michamvi Peninsula, the restaurant has divine seafood with views of the open ocean to match.

14. Loulou  

The perfect mixture of local ingredients mixed with European-style dish, this restaurant is a firm favourite amongst tourists. You’ll get a fine dining experience in a comfortable setting.

15. Stone Town Café  

Situated in the heart of the city close to the historic centre with fish sellers walking by and bicycles packed with odds and ends zooming past, you can enjoy an afternoon just taking in the local culture in this cute cafe.

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