Tanzania · tool
Zanzibar food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Zanzibar.
Photo by Majkl Velner on Unsplash
What to eat in Zanzibar
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Zanzibari Pizza
$2–$5
Not a true pizza, this is a savory or sweet crepe filled with ingredients like minced meat, egg, onions, and spices, or sweet versions with banana and chocolate. It's a popular street food snack.
Where to try: The Forodhani Gardens night market in Stone Town
Seaweed Salad (Saladi ya Mchanga)
$1.5–$4
A refreshing salad made from locally harvested seaweed, often mixed with tomatoes, onions, chili, and lime juice. It highlights the island's coastal bounty.
Where to try: Seafood stalls and local eateries along the coast, especially in Paje and Jambiani
Grilled Octopus
$8–$15
Freshly caught octopus marinated in spices and grilled to perfection, often served with a side of rice or ugali. The smoky char and tender texture are irresistible.
Where to try: Beachfront restaurants in Nungwi and Kendwa
Pilau
$3–$7
A fragrant rice dish cooked with a blend of aromatic spices, meat (often beef or chicken), and sometimes potatoes. It's a staple at celebrations and family meals.
Where to try: Local restaurants and homes throughout Stone Town and beyond
Mishkaki
$0.5–$2
Skewers of marinated meat (beef, chicken, or goat) grilled over charcoal. These flavorful street food snacks are perfect for a quick bite.
Where to try: Street food vendors, particularly around Darajani Market and Forodhani Gardens
Urojo
$1–$3
A flavorful soup or 'street soup' made with a potato and coconut milk base, spiced with turmeric and ginger, and topped with cassava fritters, bhajis, and sometimes minced meat. It's a hearty and complex dish.
Where to try: Street vendors in Stone Town, especially near the main square
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Stone Town
Historic, bustling, sensory overload
Street FoodHistoric EatsNight Markets
Forodhani Gardens
Lively night market, vibrant atmosphere
Street FoodSeafood GrillsLocal Snacks
Nungwi & Kendwa
Relaxed beachside, sunset views
Fresh SeafoodBeachfront DiningCocktails
Paje & Jambiani
Chilled-out, kite-surfing hub, local life
Seaweed DishesLocal CafesAuthentic Bites
Dietary notes
The cuisine is generally meat and seafood-heavy, with rice and ugali (a stiff maize porridge) as common starches. Vegetarian options can be found, often featuring lentils, beans, and vegetable curries, but may require specific requests in more local eateries. Gluten-free options are usually available with rice-based dishes.
Local etiquette
- •Dress modestly when exploring Stone Town, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites.
- •Bargaining is expected in markets and with street vendors, but do so respectfully and with a smile.
- •Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service, typically around 10% in restaurants.
- •Cash is king, especially at markets and smaller local eateries. Have smaller denominations handy.
- •Eating with the right hand is customary for communal dishes, though most prepared meals are eaten with cutlery.
Plan the rest of your Zanzibar trip
Food guides elsewhere