Are you a food lover planning to visit Zanzibar? This guide is for you. Zanzibar offers a unique mix of flavours influenced by African, Arabic, Indian, and European cuisines.
From rich, spiced rice dishes to delicious street snacks and fresh seafood, Zanzibar’s food scene invites you on a flavorful adventure. In this guide, you will discover the best foods to try during your Zanzibar holiday and truly experience the taste of the island.
Zanzibar Island, located off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa, is famous for more than just its white sandy beaches and clear ocean waters. It’s also known as the “Spice Island,” thanks to the abundance of spices grown on the island, which add a distinct and delightful taste to the local cuisine.
If you plan to visit Zanzibar, make sure to explore its incredible food scene. Let’s dive into the most delicious and famous dishes you need to try during your stay.
List of Zanzibar Foods
Zanzibar’s cuisine reflects a blend of African, Arabic, Indian, and European influences. The rich history of trade and cultural exchange has shaped the island’s food into something extraordinary. From aromatic rice dishes to tantalizing street snacks, here are some must-try foods when visiting Zanzibar.
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Urojo (Zanzibar Mix)
Urojo, also known as Zanzibar Mix, is a local favourite and a dish you cannot miss. It’s a type of soup made with small pieces of boiled potatoes, cassava chips, bajias (fried chickpea balls), mashed potatoes, grilled meat (mishkaki), and boiled eggs.
It gets a kick from hot chilli and coconut chutneys. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to ask for Urojo without the meat. The dish still packs plenty of flavour.
Pilau
Pilau is a popular dish across many Asian countries and parts of East Africa. In Zanzibar, it’s a favourite of locals and often served in hotels and resorts.
Zanzibar’s Pilau consists of rice, mixed with meat (like chicken, beef, or goat), potatoes, onions, garlic, and various spices. The aromatic blend of spices gives Pilau its irresistible fragrance. People typically make this dish for special occasions, like weddings, holidays, or when guests arrive.
Mishkaki
Mishkaki, a popular East African BBQ snack, offers a delicious treat of marinated meat (such as beef, chicken, or goat) skewered and grilled to perfection.
In Zanzibar, cooks marinate the meat with a blend of spices like ginger, cumin, garlic, and fresh chilli, giving it a bold and spicy flavour. You’ll find Mishkaki at various tourist spots throughout the island, so it’s easy to try.
Zanzibar Pizza
Zanzibar Pizza, a popular street food, differs from the Italian pizza you might expect. The dough is stretched thin and filled with ingredients such as meat (chicken, beef, or seafood), an egg, vegetables, and sometimes cheese.
The dough is folded over the filling and fried until it turns crispy. For a sweet treat, you can try a dessert version filled with Nutella and bananas. The best place to sample Zanzibar Pizza is at the Forodhani Night Market in Stone Town.
Zanzibar Biryani
Zanzibar Biryani is another well-loved rice dish, offering a delicious variation of the classic. Cooks layer spiced rice with marinated meat (such as chicken, beef, or fish) and cook it together to infuse the flavours.
The dish includes spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, creating a rich and aromatic taste. Locals often serve Biryani during special events, and many restaurants feature it on their menus.
Octopus Curry
Seafood plays an important role in Zanzibar’s diet, and octopus curry is a local favourite. The dish features tender octopus cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce with spices such as turmeric, curry powder, and garlic.
Usually, locals enjoy this dish with rice or chapati (a type of flatbread). It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that will surely leave a lasting impression.
Mandazi
Mandazi is a popular snack across Zanzibar. This fried bread has a sweet taste, flavoured with coconut milk and cardamom.
People enjoy Mandazi with tea or coffee. You can find it at markets and street stalls, making it a convenient and delicious option for breakfast or a mid-day snack.
Maharage ya Nazi
Maharage ya Nazi is a comforting dish of red kidney beans cooked in rich coconut milk. Cooks slow-cook the beans with onions, garlic, and mild spices, resulting in a creamy, flavorful dish.
Typically, people serve it with rice or chapati, and it’s a staple food among locals.
Ugali wa Muhogo
Ugali wa Muhogo is a traditional cassava porridge. To prepare it, cooks boil cassava flour in water until it thickens into a smooth consistency.
This dish is a staple in many East African countries and is commonly served with stews, vegetables, or grilled meats. Ugali wa Muhogo offers a simple yet satisfying meal.
Mkate wa Boflo
Mkate wa Boflo is a soft, fluffy bread that locals often enjoy. It has a mild sweetness, which makes it perfect for pairing with tea or dipping into rich stews and curries.
The bread is made using wheat flour, sugar, yeast, and milk. Its light and buttery texture make it a popular choice for breakfast or an accompaniment to hearty meals.
Vitumbua
Vitumbua are small, fluffy rice cakes that offer a sweet, soft interior with a slightly crispy exterior. Made from rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, these treats are a perfect snack or breakfast item.
Street food stalls across Zanzibar typically sell Vitumbua, and you’ll find them at various locations on the island.
Ufuta (Sesame Brittle)
Ufuta is a crunchy sesame brittle made from toasted sesame seeds and caramelized sugar. The rich, nutty flavour makes it a delightful snack or dessert.
Many locals and tourists alike enjoy Ufuta after meals for a simple yet delicious treat.
Chips Mayai
Chips Mayai is a popular Tanzanian dish that has made its way to Zanzibar. It combines French fries (chips) with whisked eggs, creating a delicious omelette.
The dish often comes with tomato sauce or chilli, making it a filling and satisfying meal. Street vendors across the island serve Chips Mayai, so it’s easy to find.
Wali wa Nazi
Wali wa Nazi, or coconut rice, is a beloved side dish in Zanzibar. The rice is cooked in coconut milk, giving it a rich and creamy taste.
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetable curries, enhancing the flavours of any meal.
Seafood BBQ
Zanzibar is famous for its fresh seafood, and a seafood BBQ is the perfect way to enjoy it. Street vendors and restaurants grill lobster, prawns, squid, and fish, all seasoned with local spices.
Seafood lovers can’t afford to miss this must-try experience while on the island.
Sugarcane Juice
To quench your thirst, try fresh sugarcane juice. Vendors press sugarcane stalks to extract the sweet juice and often add a splash of lime or ginger to enhance the flavour.
This refreshing drink is ideal for cooling off on a hot day. You can find sugarcane juice vendors in local markets and near the beach.
Where to Find the Most Famous Food in Zanzibar?
Zanzibar offers a food lover’s paradise, with delicious dishes available throughout the island. Whether you crave authentic street food, a seafood feast, or fine dining with Zanzibari flavours, you’ll find many great places to explore.
Forodhani Night Market (Stone Town)
Forodhani Night Market is the best place to experience Zanzibar’s vibrant street food scene. Every evening, locals gather at Forodhani Gardens to serve a variety of dishes. Try Zanzibar Pizza, Mishkaki, seafood BBQ, Urojo, sugarcane juice, and many other local favourites.
Lukmaan Restaurant (Stone Town)
Lukmaan Restaurant is a must-visit for authentic Swahili food. Sample dishes like Biryani, Pilau, Maharage ya Nazi, Wali wa Nazi, and Mandazi. It’s a favourite among both locals and tourists, offering fresh home-style meals at affordable prices.
The Rock Restaurant (Pingwe Beach)
For a unique dining experience, visit The Rock Restaurant, which is built on a rock in the middle of the ocean. The restaurant specialises in fresh seafood dishes like octopus curry, grilled lobster, and prawn skewers, offering an unforgettable setting and atmosphere.
Zanzibar Coffee House (Stone Town)
Enjoy a traditional Swahili breakfast at Zanzibar Coffee House, where you can try Vitumbua, Mkate wa Boflo, and Ufuta while sipping on Zanzibar coffee. It’s the perfect spot to experience the local coffee culture.
Street Food Stalls (Across Zanzibar)
Many street vendors serve dishes like Chips Mayai, Vitumbua, Ugali wa Muhogo, and sugarcane juice across the island. Look for them near markets, beaches, and bustling streets.
Emerson Spice (Stone Town)
For a fine-dining experience, Emerson Spice offers multi-course Swahili meals. Dishes like spiced rice, seafood, and coconut-based curries highlight Zanzibar’s rich flavours.
Local Fishermen’s BBQ (Kendwa & Nungwi Beaches)
If you love seafood, visit the northern beaches of Zanzibar, where local fishermen grill fresh catches such as fish, prawns, and octopus right on the beach.
Final Verdict
Zanzibar’s food offers a delightful mix of flavours influenced by its rich history and diverse cultures. From spicy rice dishes to sweet coconut treats, there’s something for every palate.
When you visit Zanzibar, make sure to try these dishes to experience the island’s rich culinary traditions.
FAQs
What is the most famous food in Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is famous for dishes like Zanzibar Mix (Urojo), Biryani, Pilau, and Zanzibar Pizza.
Where can I try these foods in Zanzibar?
You can try these foods at street food markets, local restaurants, and beachside BBQ spots.
Is Zanzibar food spicy?
Yes, many dishes feature local spices. However, you can always request a milder version if you prefer less heat.