What to Eat in Zanzibar: Swahili Cuisine Guide
Zanzibar isn’t just about pristine beaches and turquoise waters ,it’s also a food lover’s paradise. Thanks to centuries of cultural blending from Arab, Indian, Persian, and African influences, Swahili cuisine in Zanzibar is rich, aromatic, and unforgettable.
At Mandari Travel, we believe tasting the local food is a key part of experiencing the real Zanzibar. Here’s your ultimate guide to the must-try dishes that define Swahili cuisine on the island.
Top Traditional Foods to Try in Zanzibar
1. Zanzibar Pizza
A local street food legend but don’t let the name fool you. Zanzibar pizza is more like a stuffed crepe filled with savory ingredients like beef, cheese, vegetables, or even seafood. There are also sweet versions with banana and chocolate.
Where to try it: Forodhani Night Market in Stone Town
2. Pilau
This spiced rice dish is cooked with cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and cumin, often served with meat or vegetables. It’s a celebratory dish and a staple at weddings, festivals, and family meals.
3. Biryani
Indian influence shines in Zanzibar’s biryani. Expect fragrant rice layered with marinated chicken, beef, or fish in a rich, spicy sauce. Every family has their own twist on it!
4. Urojo (Zanzibar Mix)
This tangy street food soup combines crispy fritters, potatoes, boiled eggs, and coconut chutney ,all in a curried broth. It’s flavorful, spicy, and incredibly unique.
Where to try it: Local food stalls in Darajani Market or outskirts of Stone Town
5. Seafood Platters
Zanzibar’s coastal location means you’ll enjoy the freshest seafood. Grilled lobster, calamari, octopus, and prawns are often served with coconut sauce or spicy tomato chutneys.
Best enjoyed at: Beachfront restaurants in Nungwi, Kendwa, or Paje
6. Octopus Curry
A creamy coconut milk curry featuring tender, spicy octopus a local delicacy in coastal villages.
Sweet Treats & Snacks
- Vitumbua – Rice flour coconut pancakes, slightly crispy outside and fluffy inside
- Mandazi – Lightly sweet Swahili doughnuts, often served with tea
- Kashata – Coconut or peanut brittle, perfect for a quick sugar fix
Spice It Up: Visit a Spice Farm
Zanzibar isn’t called the Spice Island for nothing. Touring a local spice farm is a must-do ,you’ll see (and taste!) fresh cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, turmeric, and more.
Eat Like a Local with Mandari Travel
At Mandari Travel, we include authentic food experiences in every itinerary ,from guided spice farm tours to street food tasting in Stone Town and seafood dinners by the beach.
Email: info@mandaritravel
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811
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