Top 10 Zanzibar Food Dishes To Try For Your Luxury Visit

Zanzibar is also known as the spice island, the place is a culinary heaven which has dishes from Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe. The rich history and the tropical setting of the island are showcased in its flavorful cuisine which makes the island a must-visit place for food enthusiasts. Below is a guide about the top 10 must-try dishes during your visit to Zanzibar

•  Zanzibar Pilau

It is aromatic and flavourful, the Zanzibar pilau is the symbol of the spice heritage of Zanzibar food.

What it is: The dish is a spiced rice dish cooked with cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg powder usually mixed with meat, fish, or vegetables.

Why try it: Its twisted flavours and sweet-smelling aroma make it one of the top dishes to try in Zanzibar.

Where to enjoy: You can enjoy this dish at Emerson on Hurumzi.

•   Urojo (Zanzibar Mix)

This dish is known as the ultimate street food Zanzibar.

What it is:  It is a flavoursome soup made with coconut milk, spices, potatoes, and fried snacks such as bhajis and samosas topped with chutneys.

Why try it: It is a vibrant and spicy dish which showcases the combination of culinary traditions of food in Zanzibar.

Where to enjoy: You can try this dish at Lukmaan Restaurant which provides you with a gourmet flavour of this locally favourite dish.

• Nyama Choma (Grilled Meat)

The traditional food in Tanzania cuisine, nyama choma is given a Zanzibar touch with a unique kind of marinatio.n 

What it is: It is grilled with goat or chicken, the meat is usually grilled on charcoal and marinated in the local spices. 

Why try it: The smoky and juicy flavours of the meat are increased by mixing the meat with the special spices of Zanzibar. 

Where to enjoy: You can have Nyama Choma at some of the most prominent beachfront restaurants such as The Rock in Michamvi.

• Octopus Curry

Octopus curry is Zanibar must try a typical seafood dish 

What it is: It is a fresh octopus which is cooked in creamy coconut milk with turmeric, curry leaves, and lime.

Why try it: It is a blend of juicy seafood and rich spiced sauce 

Where to enjoy: You can have octopus curry at Forodhani Gardens and Park Hyatt Zanzibar.

• Samaki wa Kupaka (Fish in Coconut Sauce)

The dish represents the Tanzanian traditional food.

What it is: It is a freshly caught fish which is grilled and coated with thick coconut milk which is flavoured with lime and garlic.

Why try it: The dish is a mix of rich and spicy flavours 

Where to enjoy: You can have it at Kisiwa House or boutique resorts.

• Zanzibar Pizza

The dish is a local innovation of the place 

What it is: It is a thin dough stuffed with fillings such as minced meat, vegetables, and cheese, pan-fried until crispy. The sweeter version of the Zanzibar pizza is filled with Nutella or bananas which is also quite popular 

Why try it: It’s a tasty and unique take on pizza like no other.

Where to enjoy: You can have it  prepared by the chef at top-tier resorts.

• Cassava with Coconut Milk

Cassava is a major side dish in Zanzibar cuisine.

What it is: It is boiled and slowly cooked in coconut milk and mixed with spices and a hint of chilli.

Why try it: The delicate flavour and the creamy texture of the dish complement it with any dish. 

Where to enjoy: You can have it at some of the Local high-end eateries such as Zanzibar Serena Hotel.

•  Mandazi (Zanzibari Doughnuts)

These lightly fried pastries are one of the favourite snacks of Zanzibar foods.

What it is:  It is a dough made with coconut milk and spiced with cardamom, the doughnuts are deeply fried till it is golden. 

Why try it: They are quite alluring and delicious, usually paired with tea

Where to enjoy: You can have mandazi at luxury brunches or boutique cafes such as  Stone Town Café.

• Biryani

The biryani showcases the influence of Indian cuisine in Tanzania food culture.

What it is:  It is a layered rice dish which is cooked with spiced meat or seafood, saffron, and fried onions.

Why try it: The bold flavours and texture of the biryani make it a culinary gem. 

Where to enjoy; You can have biryani at some of the fine dining spots such as The Tea House Restaurant at Emerson Spice Hotel.

•  Tropical Fruit Platters

A variety of fruits grows in the tropical climate of Zanzibar

What it is: It is a platter which comprises mangoes, pineapples, jackfruit, passion fruit, and the famous red bananas of Zanzibar.

Why try it: The juiciness and natural sweetness of the fruits are quite matchless.

Where to enjoy: You can have tropical platters at most of the luxury hotels and resorts in Zanzibar.

Drinks to Pair with Zanzibar Dishes

• Sugarcane Juice: The sugarcane juice is refreshing and naturally sweet and usually spiced with ginger 
• Spiced Tea: It is an aromatic combination of  cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, which is usually served hot 
• Fresh Coconut Water: Coconut water is a tropical delight 

Conclusion 

The Zanzibar food scene is a colourful blend of dishes inspired by Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe. From the spicy Zanzibar Pilau to the creamy, vibrant Octopus Curry, each dish holds a story that reflects the island’s rich history. Whether you crave the much-loved street food delight Urojo, the exotic Zanzibar Pizza, or a refreshing tropical fruit cocktail, Zanzibar is the ultimate culinary destination. Pair these delectable offerings with sugarcane juice or spiced tea to savour the rich, endemic flavours of the island’s culture.

Not only does Zanzibar offer dishes with immense flavours, but the experience is enhanced by stunning scenery, including ocean-side restaurants, unique boutique hotels, and lively local eateries. For food lovers, exploring Zanzibar recipes is more than a meal—it’s a journey into the heart of its culture and cuisine. Missing out on these top dishes means missing the essence of Zanzibar on your luxury visit.