Best Places to Eat in Zanzibar Town

Street Food Heaven: Best Places to Eat in Zanzibar Town

Zanzibar Town (also known as Stone Town) is a culinary gem on the island of Unguja in Zanzibar. The town’s narrow streets and alleys are filled with a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls serving up delicious local cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Zanzibar Town:

Street Food Stalls

  • Darjala Hall: This bustling street food market is located near the Darjala Beach Hotel and offers a wide variety of local dishes, including grilled fish, seafood, and meats.
    • Try: Grilled Fish with Spices (TZS 3,000 - 5,000 / ~USD 1.50 - 2.50)
  • Forodhani Night Market: This popular night market takes place every evening in the center of Stone Town and features a range of street food vendors selling everything from grilled meat skewers to fresh seafood.
    • Try: Meat Skewers with Peppers and Onions (TZS 5,000 - 7,000 / ~USD 2.50 - 3.50)

Local Restaurants

  • Kokota Restaurant: This family-run restaurant is located in the heart of Stone Town and serves up delicious local cuisine, including seafood, meats, and vegetarian options.
    • Try: Coconut Crab Curry (TZS 15,000 - 20,000 / ~USD 7.50 - 10)
  • Zanzibar Coffee House: This cozy coffee shop is a great place to grab a snack or light meal, including sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
    • Try: Fresh Fruit Salad (TZS 5,000 - 7,000 / ~USD 2.50 - 3.50)

Tips and Essentials

  • The best time to eat street food in Zanzibar Town is during the late afternoon or early evening when the sun is not too hot.
  • Be sure to try some of the local fruits, such as mangoes and pineapples, which are often sold by street vendors.
  • If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, consider trying some of the local seafood dishes, such as grilled fish or seafood curry.

Budget Breakdown

  • Street food: TZS 3,000 - 5,000 (~USD 1.50 - 2.50) per meal
  • Local restaurants: TZS 10,000 - 20,000 (~USD 5 - 10) per meal
  • Coffee shops and cafes: TZS 5,000 - 7,000 (~USD 2.50 - 3.50) per snack or light meal