Zanzibar Island
Eating & Drinking in Zanzibar
Zanzibar's cuisine is a flavorful fusion of African, Arab, Indian, and Portuguese influences, reflecting its history as a major trade hub. Spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger are integrated into dishes alongside fresh seafood.
Must-Try Local Dishes
Zanzibar Pizza
A popular street food pancake filled with minced meat, egg, onion, cheese, mayonnaise, and chili sauce (or sweet options like banana and chocolate), pan-fried on a griddle.
Urojo (Zanzibar Mix)
A tangy, yellowish soup made from a potato and flour base, filled with crispy potato fritters, boiled egg, grated cassava, and topped with coconut and hot mango chutneys.
Pweza wa Nazi
Tender octopus cooked in a rich, creamy sauce of freshly squeezed coconut milk, infused with curry powder, cardamom, and local spices.
Spiced Biryani & Pilau
Fragrant rice dishes flavored with cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, and pepper, served with beef, goat, or fish curry.
Recommended Dining Experiences
Average Food & Beverage Costs
| Dining Tier | Price Range | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food (Forodhani) | $1 - $5 USD | Zanzibar Pizza, Urojo Mix, Cane Juice |
| Casual Beachside Dining | $8 - $18 USD | Fish & Chips, Seafood Curry, Beer |
| Fine Dining / Rooftop Banquets | $35 - $60+ USD | Rooftop Swahili Banquet, The Rock meals |
Food Safety & Etiquette Advice
- Always clarify the price of seafood skewers at Forodhani Gardens before they cook it for you to avoid overcharging.
- Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island; while alcohol is widely available in tourist resorts and Stone Town hotels, it is not served in local Swahili eateries.
- Drink only bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice at street food stalls.