Tasting Zanzibar food is a must during your holiday visit to Zanzibar, and this is a given due to the many restaurants available around the place.
This is why deciding which ones are worth your time and money can be challenging. Since we also know that eating delicious food while on vacation is essential, we’re here to break down the top 10 things to eat in Zanzibar.
The top 10 best Zanzibar food on holiday: What to eat
hen you set foot in Zanzibar, you’ll be greeted by a culinary paradise that promises to tantalize your taste buds. The island’s diverse cuisine offers various delectable options, from fresh seafood dishes bursting with flavor to aromatic and hearty curries that showcase the region’s rich heritage.
Here, we’ve curated a list of Zanzibar’s top 10 best foods, drawing from their popularity and irresistible taste. Get ready for a culinary journey that celebrates the vibrant flavors and cultural diversity of this enchanting island destination.
Zanzibar food #1: Zanzibar pizza
Zanzibar pizza is a delicious take on the classic Italian dish. It starts by filling a dough ball with your desired pizza toppings and then cooking it like a crepe. Once crispy on the bottom and top, it is cut into bite-sized squares! The great thing about Zanzibar pizza is that it can be a vegetarian dish, too!
This dish will make your taste buds soar if you’re a classic pizza lover. Zanzibar Pizza is available at local Zanzibar restaurants, such as Mr. Nuttellas Zanzibar Pizza.
The Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town is also a great place to find this classic dish. Head to Mama Mia, an authentic Italian restaurant for regular wood-fired pizza.
Zanzibar food #2: Biryani and pilau
For another authentic Zanzibar Island experience, consider grabbing a plate of this delicious dish. While biryani and pilau are slightly different, both are heavily flavored rice dishes made from a blend of spices and other ingredients.
Biryani from the Middle East boasts fragrant rice cooked with various spices and meat, offering flavor in every bite. With its roots in East Asia, Pilau features seasoned rice cooked with meat and vegetables, creating a savory dish that locals and visitors love.
These iconic African dishes have stood the test of time, continuing to be cherished staples of Zanzibar cuisine, reflecting the island’s rich culinary heritage.
Zanzibar food #3: Indian ocean seafood
Wherever it is situated, the availability of fresh seafood is complemented by gorgeous views and swaying coco palms in Zanzibar. In Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town, you can choose from delicious octopus and hake, simply some dishes containing fresh ocean flavors.
However, since the crowds in the garden are overwhelming, many are pre-cooked. Thus, enjoying the coastal marvels, one may observe distinctive appetizing servings and consume their tasty food.
Zanzibar food #4. Urojo soup
Zanzibar Mix, also known as Urojo soup, embodies the fusion of African and Indian culinary influences, resembling the comforting consistency of ramen. This iconic dish features a delightful medley of flavors and textures, incorporating falafels, egg, onion bhajis, bread, meat, coconut, or chutney. All heightened with fiery hot peppers.
Whether strolling through the bustling streets of Stone Town or exploring the quieter corners of Zanzibar’s towns, you’re bound to encounter this flavorful delight. Take advantage of the opportunity to savor this beloved dish, which reflects Zanzibar’s rich cultural heritage and culinary diversity.
Zanzibar chocolate
Imagine you and your sweetheart enjoying a moment of romance at a Zanzibar beach while staring at the spectacular oceans. To make the experience even more unique, order a typical Zanzibar chocolate served in every part of the island.
It is not like your regular type of chocolate since Zanzibar chocolate is a bar with sesame instead. To be more specific, the chocolate has its enthusiast taste of sweetness and nutty. For a warm and homely affair on the beach, you and your lover can share the sweetened chocolate with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Mishkaki
Mishkaki is a usual Zanzibar dish and one of Stone Town’s famous street foods. The BBQ-flavored meat is grilled to create the perfect smoky, savory flavor every time you put it in your mouth.
It is served kebab-style, and it is everyone’s favorite meal. The meal is a bit of an adventure. Take your time to walk the streets of Stone Town and enjoy the tasty and mouth-smelling food.
Chips mayaii
One of Tanzania’s renowned street foods, this East African delight is none other than the tasty combination of potato chips and egg in an omelet. Widely available at street food stalls, it’s a beloved choice for locals as part of their everyday cuisine.
Combining the fulfilling crunch of potato chips with fluffy eggs, it’s a flavorful treat enjoyed by many. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Zanzibar or elsewhere in Tanzania, try this famous dish to taste authentic East African street food culture.
Zanzibar coffee
Renowned for its superb quality, coffee from East Africa, particularly Tanzania, has long been cherished by locals and coffee enthusiasts worldwide. With coffee farming deeply rooted in village life, Tanzania has honed its techniques to produce exceptional beans. Indulge in a cup of Tanzania’s world-renowned coffee before strolling along its pristine sandy beaches, completing your sensory experience of this East African gem.
Mandazi
Mandazi, reminiscent of a donut, is a delectable East African delicacy crafted from a blend of sugar, coconut milk, local nuts, flour, and yeast. Found in every nook and cranny of Zanzibar, indulging in this delightful treat is a culinary essential for visitors and locals alike. While exploring Stone Town on day tours, grab a batch of these mouthwatering delights to savor the authentic flavors of Zanzibar’s culinary heritage.
Persian food
Influenced by Persian cuisine, Tanzanian culture and travelers’ palates have embraced a variety of Persian dishes. From creamy baba ghanoush to savory hummus and beyond, the flavors of Persia can be found gracing menus across Stone Town. When exploring this vibrant city, take advantage of the chance to seduce your taste buds with the delicious offerings of Persian cuisine readily available at local restaurants.
Conclusion: Why visit Zanzibar?
Whether you come in the rainy or dry season, Zanzibar beach holidays are the epitome of relaxation and comfort. You can expect beautiful beach walks under palm trees, luxury beachfront accommodation options with your private beach, and exotic day tours through Zanzibar cities.
If you’d like to experience a beach holiday in Zanzibar and go on day tours to experience Stone Town, delicious Zanzibar food, and other unique activities, contact Easy Travel today. Our team of professional experts will aid you in crafting the most beautiful holiday from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What makes Zanzibar Coffee House stand out in terms of coffee experiences?
Embark on a sensory adventure at Zanzibar Coffee House, where every sip tells a story of the island’s rich cultural heritage. Their coffee beans, meticulously sourced from local farms and skillfully roasted on-site, ensure a brew of unparalleled freshness and superior taste.
Set within a historic building exuding traditional charm, the coffee house provides a nostalgic escape to yesteryears, enveloping guests in an ambiance of timeless elegance. Let the scent of brewed coffee and the quaint allure of the surroundings transport you to a past era, creating an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
2. How are toasted sesame seeds used in Zanzibari cuisine?
Discover the versatile charm of toasted sesame seeds, a beloved ingredient in Zanzibari cuisine renowned for its nutty flavor and satisfying crunch. These seeds lend their distinct character to various dishes, from salads and soups to rice dishes and sweet treats.
In signature dishes like pilau rice and biryani, toasted sesame seeds are generously sprinkled atop, infusing each bite with a delightful nuttiness and enhancing the dish’s visual appeal. Elevate your culinary creations with the irresistible addition of toasted sesame seeds, a hallmark of the Zanzibari culinary tradition.
3. What sets Zanzibar biryani apart from other types of biryani?
Savor the exquisite blend of Indian, Arab, and Swahili influences in Zanzibar biryani, a culinary masterpiece steeped in cultural heritage. This aromatic dish boasts fragrant rice infused with a medley of spices, tender meat, and occasionally potatoes or hard-boiled eggs.
Incorporating locally sourced spices like cloves, cardamom, and creamy coconut milk imparts Zanzibar biryani’s unique and unmistakable flavor, setting it apart from its counterparts. Embark on a flavorful journey through Zanzibar’s rich culinary tapestry with each irresistible bite of this iconic dish.
4. How are fried mashed potatoes prepared in Zanzibari cuisine?
Fried mashed potatoes, known locally as “viazi karai,” are a popular street food snack in Zanzibar. They are made by boiling potatoes until soft, mashing them, and then shaping them into patties or balls.
After shaping, the potato patties are coated in a seasoned batter and fried until they achieve a golden, crispy exterior. Typically served piping hot, they accompany spicy dipping sauce or chutney for added flavor.
5. What makes octopus curry a must-try dish in Zanzibar?
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of octopus curry, a culinary delight highlighting Zanzibar’s bounty of fresh seafood. Slow-cooked in a fragrant curry sauce infused with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and aromatic spices, the octopus becomes tender and succulent.
With its rich and creamy sauce, this food offers a harmonious balance of flavors that perfectly complements a serving of fluffy rice or warm flatbread. Immerse yourself in the essence of Zanzibari cuisine with every savory bite of this aromatic delicacy.
6. How are French fries prepared and served in Zanzibar?
Savor the crispy indulgence of French fries, known as “chips” in Zanzibar, a beloved accompaniment enjoyed across the island. Crafted from thinly sliced potatoes, these fries are expertly fried until they achieve a golden, crispy perfection.
Whether paired with succulent grilled meats, nestled within a burger, or savored alone, French fries are a versatile and irresistible treat. Dive into a culinary adventure and elevate your dining experience with these flavorful fries, perfect for dipping in tangy ketchup or spicy chili sauce.
7. What makes Zanzibar pizzas unique compared to traditional pizzas?
Explore the culinary charm of Zanzibar pizzas, a delightful fusion of local flavors and international appeal. These pizzas offer a unique twist on the Italian classic with a thin, crispy crust enveloping a tempting array of fillings like minced meat, vegetables, cheese, or seafood.
What distinguishes Zanzibar pizzas is their inventive use of local ingredients and their traditional cooking method, where each pizza is expertly grilled over an open flame. Go on a gastronomic adventure and treat your palate to the savory delights of Zanzibar pizzas, a must-try street food sensation on the island.
8. How is chili sauce used in Zanzibari cuisine?
Experience the fiery kick of chili sauce, an essential flavor enhancer in Zanzibari cuisine that elevates dishes with its bold taste. Crafted from fresh chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, and spices, this sauce boasts a smooth texture and intense heat.
Whether used as a zesty dipping sauce for fried treats like samosas and french fries or as a marinade in various dishes, chili sauce adds depth and complexity to every bite. Delight your taste buds with the lively flavors of Zanzibar, where chili sauce reigns as a beloved condiment cherished for its fiery zest.
9. What role does coconut chutney play in Zanzibari cuisine?
Coconut chutney is a versatile condiment that adds flavor and texture to many Zanzibari dishes. It is made from grated coconut, green chilies, garlic, cilantro, and spices, which are ground together to create a thick, creamy sauce.
Coconut chutney is often served alongside rice dishes, curries, grilled meats, or fried snacks like samosas and bhajias. Its refreshing flavor and cooling properties help balance the heat of spicy dishes and add depth to savory flavors.
10. Where can I find the best Zanzibar Coffee House experience?
For an unforgettable coffee experience in Zanzibar, look no further than Zanzibar Coffee House, nestled in the heart of Stone Town. Here, you can savor freshly roasted coffee from local farms, expertly brewed to perfection.
The historic ambiance of the coffee house, adorned with traditional decor and cozy seating areas, provides the ideal spot to enjoy your coffee. Whether you’re a coffee lover or simply seeking a delightful pick-me-up, Zanzibar Coffee House promises a memorable experience for all.
11. How are toasted sesame seeds incorporated into traditional Zanzibari recipes?
Toasted sesame seeds are a versatile ingredient in Zanzibari cuisine. They add a gratifying crunch and nutty flavor to various dishes. They are often sprinkled on salads, rice dishes, and stir-fries for added texture and taste.
Additionally, toasted sesame seeds are used as a garnish for desserts and baked goods, enhancing their taste and visual appeal. Toasted sesame seeds are a beloved staple in Zanzibari kitchens with their rich flavor and nutritional benefits.
12. What are the critical ingredients in Zanzibar biryani, and how is it traditionally served?
Delight in the aromatic allure of Zanzibar biryani, a culinary symphony of fragrant spices and succulent meat. Crafted with basmati rice, tender chicken, beef, or goat, and a medley of onions, tomatoes, and yogurt, each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors.
Complemented by a melange of spices like cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon, Zanzibar biryani is a sensory delight that captivates the palate. Traditionally served with raita, fried onions, and hard-boiled eggs, this dish offers a tempting array of textures and tastes, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Zanzibar.
13. Can you share the traditional recipe for fried mashed potatoes in Zanzibari cuisine?
Fried mashed potatoes, or “viazi karai,” are a popular street food snack in Zanzibar, loved for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior. To prepare them, boiled potatoes are mashed and seasoned with salt and spices, then shaped into patties or balls.
These potato patties are coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs and spices and then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Served hot and crispy, fried mashed potatoes are often enjoyed with tangy tamarind sauce or chili sauce for dipping.
14. What sets octopus curry apart from other seafood dishes in Zanzibari cuisine?
Octopus curry is a beloved seafood dish in Zanzibar, known for its rich and aromatic flavors. The tender octopus is cooked in a fragrant curry sauce made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, garlic, turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
What sets octopus curry apart is the unique texture and flavor of the octopus, which becomes tender and succulent when slow-cooked in the curry sauce. Served with rice or flatbread, octopus curry is a satisfying dish that holds the essence of Zanzibari cuisine.
15. How are Zanzibar pizzas traditionally served, and what toppings are popular?
Zanzibar pizzas are a beloved street food snack in Zanzibar, and they are enjoyed for their crispy crust and flavorful fillings. Traditionally, Zanzibar pizzas are served folded over a filling of your choice, such as minced meat, vegetables, cheese, or seafood.
Popular toppings include spicy beef, chicken tikka, seafood mix, and vegetarian options like spinach and cheese. The pizzas are then grilled on a hot skillet until golden brown and crispy, resulting in a delicious and satisfying snack that captures the essence of Zanzibari street food culture.
