The 10 Best Restaurants of Zanzibar Archipelago

Zanzibar Archipelago, located off the coast of Tanzania, is a paradise for travelers who love beautiful beaches and exotic food. The former capital of the sultanate, Zanzibar City, is known for its rich culture and historical heritage. With a thriving nightlife and numerous incredible restaurants, Zanzibar Archipelago is the perfect place for any foodie.

The nightlife culture of Zanzibar Archipelago has a long history. During the sultanate’s reign, Zanzibar City was a cosmopolitan center of trade, with many cultures influencing its food, nightlife, and culture. Today, Zanzibar Archipelago is a blend of African, Arabic, Indian, and Chinese cultures, and its restaurants and nightlife reflect these influences.

If you are planning a trip to Zanzibar Archipelago, you must not miss out on the delicious food. Here are the 10 best restaurants you must try while you are there.

1. The Rock Restaurant

If you want to enjoy your meal in a unique setting, The Rock Restaurant is the place to go. Built on a rock in the middle of the ocean, The Rock Restaurant offers some of the most stunning views in Zanzibar Archipelago. Their seafood is fresh and delicious.

2. Emerson Spice

Emerson Spice is a boutique hotel with a rooftop restaurant that offers delicious Swahili cuisine. The restaurant has stunning views of Zanzibar City, and the staff is attentive and friendly. Their signature dishes include the famous Zanzibari spiced tea and biryani.

3. Lazuli

If you are looking for a romantic dinner with your loved one, Lazuli is the place to go. With candlelit tables and soft music, this rooftop restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner. Their cuisine is a blend of European and African flavors, and their lobster ravioli is a must-try dish.

4. The Terrace Restaurant

The Terrace Restaurant is located in the heart of Stone Town, and it’s famous for its authentic Zanzibari cuisine. Their chapati and fish curry are a must-try, and their staff is friendly and attentive.

5. The Market Kitchen

The Market Kitchen is a food hall with different food stalls offering various cuisines from around the world. From Mexican to Chinese, they have it all. The staff is friendly and the food is fresh and delicious.

6. Mercury’s Restaurant

Named after the famous rock star who was born in Zanzibar, Mercury’s Restaurant offers delicious seafood in a stunning setting. With a view of the ocean, Mercury’s is perfect for a romantic dinner or a family outing.

7. Puzzle Cafe

Puzzle Cafe is a cozy cafe located in the bustling streets of Stone Town. They offer fresh juices and smoothies, and their avocado toast is a must-try. The cafe also offers free Wi-Fi, making it a perfect spot for digital nomads.

8. Livingstone Beach Restaurant

Located on the beach, Livingstone Beach Restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere and delicious seafood. Their lobsters are famous, and their staff is welcoming and friendly.

9. Emerson on Hurumzi

Emerson on Hurumzi is a hotel with a restaurant that serves Swahili cuisine. With stunning views of Zanzibar City and a romantic atmosphere, this restaurant is perfect for a special occasion. Their grilled octopus is a must-try dish.

10. House of Spices

House of Spices is a rooftop restaurant that offers delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. Their hummus and falafel are a must-try, and their staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant also offers cooking classes for those interested in learning how to make Middle Eastern dishes.

Conclusion

Zanzibar Archipelago is a paradise for foodies, with a wide range of restaurants offering different cuisines from around the world. From seafood to Middle Eastern cuisine, Zanzibar Archipelago has it all. Whether you want to enjoy a romantic dinner or a family outing, there is a restaurant for everyone. Make the most of your trip to Zanzibar Archipelago by trying out these ten best restaurants, and you won’t be disappointed.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Zanzibar Archipelago

Zanzibar Archipelago, located off the coast of Tanzania, is a breathtakingly beautiful place. Its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and coral reefs make it a paradise for snorkelling and scuba diving. In addition to its natural beauty, Zanzibar has a rich history and culture that dates back to the 17th century. As an insider, here are some unique and exciting things to do and see in Zanzibar Archipelago.

Explore Local Attractions Beyond the Tourist Spots

While Stone Town and the beaches are popular tourist destinations in Zanzibar, there are still plenty of hidden gems that only the locals know. One of these is the Mangapwani Slave Chamber, which is a brutal reminder of Zanzibar’s dark past. The chamber was used to house slaves before they were transported to other parts of the world. Another unique spot is the Butterfly Centre, which is a conservation project that allows visitors to see and learn about the island’s beautiful butterflies. For a more cultural experience, you can visit the Mwanzo Mpya Women’s Group, where you can learn about the local handicrafts, fabrics, and jewellery.

Dining Spots & the City’s Food Culture

Zanzibar has a unique and diverse food culture that has been shaped by the many different nations that have inhabited the island. One of the most famous dishes is Zanzibar Spice Rice, which is a fragrant and flavourful rice dish made with a blend of spices and coconut milk. You can also try the local delicacy, octopus curry, which is spicy and delicious. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the Rock Restaurant, which is located on a unique rock formation in the sea. The restaurant offers stunning views along with an extensive menu of freshly caught seafood.

Cultural Experiences

Zanzibar is known for its vibrant culture, and one of the best ways to experience it is by attending a traditional Taarab music night. Taarab is a blend of Arab and African music that has been popular in Zanzibar since the 19th century. Another cultural experience is the Zanzibar International Film Festival, which is a week-long event that showcases films from all over the world. It’s a great opportunity to see some African films that you might not be able to find anywhere else.

Local History Stories

Zanzibar has a fascinating history, and one of the most intriguing stories is the legend of the Sultan’s Palace. The palace was built in the 19th century by Sultan Said Barghash as a gift for his wife, but it only stood for a few years before it was destroyed. It is said that the Sultan discovered his wife was having an affair with the palace’s architect and had him murdered, which led to the building’s demise. Another story is that of the old slave market, which is now a museum. It was one of the largest slave markets in East Africa and a poignant reminder of the island’s dark past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unique experience in Zanzibar, why not try a spice tour? Zanzibar is famous for its spices, and there are many tours available that allow you to explore the spice farms and learn about how they are grown and harvested. Another great off-the-beaten-path suggestion is visiting the Mnarani Natural Aquarium, which is a protected area where you can swim with endangered sea turtles and learn about their conservation.

In conclusion, Zanzibar Archipelago is a beautiful place with much more depth and character than meets the eye. It’s a place that offers a great mix of natural beauty, culture, and history that will captivate your senses and leave you wanting more. By exploring the off-the-beaten-path attractions, dining spots, and cultural experiences, you will get to see the real Zanzibar and come away with unforgettable memories.