The island of Zanzibar is one of those wonderfully exotic names which conjures up mystery, spices and tropical heat. It is all those things and more. It is likely to be your beach destination of choice if you have been on safari in mainland Tanzania or even Kenya.
There exist many all-inclusive beach resorts on the island but for those who are more adventurous, there is a historic, tropical island to discover and meals to eat! Our team has compiled a list of five restaurants that are gastronomically good or are in interesting locations.
Our list of the Top 5 restaurants in Zanzibar is as follows;
1. Mercury's Bar
Stone Town
Named after the eponymous band leader of Queen, this seafood restaurant is the only one in town with a seaside location (mainly views of the harbour). The food is more wholesome than gastronomic but the atmosphere and cold drinks more than make up for it.
Information link: Mercury's Bar
2. Mangapwani Beach Grill and Restaurant
Sea Cliff Resort and Spa
Located on the less-developed northwest coast of Zanzibar near the historically interesting Mangapwani Slave Caves, this is a great place to chill out whilst waiting for your grilled seafood on the beach. If you can imagine sipping a fresh cocktail on a white tropical beach with clear blue water, you have arrived at this destination!
Information link: Mangapwani Beach Grill and Restaurant
3. The Rock
Pingwe, Zanzibar
Located on the southeast of the island, on the Michamwi Pingwe peninsula, about 45 minutes from Stone Town. In a short space of time, this restaurant has become an iconic destination for travellers to Zanzibar. As the name suggests, this thatched restaurant is perched on a rocky outcrop, walkable at low tide and reached by boat at high tide. Excellent seafood but also surprisingly good pasta and more international dishes. Comparatively expensive for Zanzibar but worth every penny.
Information link: The Rock
4. Mtoni Marine's Restaurant and Sports Bar
Stone Town
This beachside restaurant is located just outside of Stone Town and is a short stroll to the Mtoni Palace. It has a casual atmosphere and is frequented by locals and tourists but it is always a pleasure to dine on a beach by candlelight with your toes in the soft white sand. Highly recommended.
Information link: Mtoni Marine's Restaurant and Sports Bar
5. Terrace Seafood Restaurant
Zanzibar Serena Hotel
Gastronomically speaking, one of the best on the island. The restaurant is located on the roof terrace overlooking the bay in Stone Town and features an excellent selection of freshly-caught seafood. Expect to pay nearer international prices but you will not be let down by the quality nor the location.
Information link: Terrace Seafood Restaurant
Top 5 restaurants in Zanzibar by Uyaphi.com
Sand Rivers Selous
Sand Rivers Selous on the banks of the Rufiji River in one of Africa's largest reserves offers a blend of classic safari elegance and that rugged bush adventure feel.
A small and intimate Selous camp with just eight rooms and suites and more activities that one can shake a stick at.
Ngorongoro Farm House
Ngorongoro Farm House with 52 cottages is a fantastic base from which to explore all the surrounding attractions of Tanzania's "Northern Circuit" whilst offering good value for money to-boot.
The lodge is situated halfway between Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara whilst offering activities locally that include mountain biking, hiking and cultural visits.
Zanzibar Serena Hotel
Zanzibar Serena Hotel is located in the heart of Stone Town; this stunning property is set in two historic seafront buildings that have been integrated and restored into a unique single property echoing the grandeur of days past.
One of the better hotels for those looking for something in the heart of Stone Town.
Plantation Lodge
Plantation lodge's location promises maximum safari enjoyment: a stone's throw from the entrance to the Ngorongoro crater, a short hop from the Tarangire and Lake Manyara national parks, and just a short journey from the Serengeti.
Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge comprises 12 superior rooms decorated in an elegant African style of a bygone era incorporating local materials from the region, within Africa's largest game reserve, the Selous Game Reserve, a proclaimed world heritage site.
The Selous lodge is situated on the Rufiji River in the Selous and offers fantastic game drive options in the area where Wild Dog is often spotted.
Four Points By Sheraton Arusha
The Arusha Hotel is set in beautifully landscaped gardens with all the amenities and luxury for the discerning traveler.
The tropical gardens are home to many birds and exotic plants, an ideal setting for wedding receptions and outdoor functions. Located in the heart of downtown Arusha, close to bars and restaurants.
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge with 98 rooms is located on the eastern side of the crater rim; this Ngorongoro crater lodge offers fantastic views of the rim from the main dining area, the swimming pool area is where you can swim and watch the wildlife in the crater below.
The perfect Ngorongoro crater lodge for those looking for something more budget orientated,
Jabali Ridge
Jabali Ridge in the Ruaha, with the most stunning of views is positioned on top of a rocky outcrop overlooking the Mwagusi River and Ikuka escarpment in the Ruaha.
Jabali Ridge, a Ruaha luxury safari camp that offers guests a luxury stay combined with magnificent wildlife sightings and experiences all with this great Ruaha National Park.