
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
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Arusha Coffee Lodge is surrounded by the endless acres of berry-laden coffee bushes of Tanzania's largest coffee plantations is designed around the original plantation houses but completely renovated to achieve the highest standards of comfort.
A legendary lodge that is a must-visit / stay for all that pass through this East Africa town in the heart of Tanzania's safari industry.
Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Serengeti Sopa Lodge with all her 79 suites is located in the Nyarboro Hills in the southwest of the National Park and is the only tourism development in this section of the Park, one of the best lodges in Serengeti when on a budget.
Tarangire Simba Lodge
Tarangire Simba Lodge located within Tanzania's amazing Tarangire National Park is an attractive option for those interested in experiencing all that this region has to offer.
Tarangire Simba Lodge is ideal for small groups, couples and families.
Serengeti Simba Lodge
Serengeti Simba Lodge offers up views out over the surrounding plains and wildlife from almost every vantage point and room. An excellent option for budget-oriented travellers.
A comfortable and rustic option in a magnificent location with outstanding Serengeti wildlife and birdlife sightings year-round.
Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge
Lake Manyara Kilimanjaro Lodge with her exceptional views of Lake Manyara National Park, Mount Meru and in the distance, Mount Kilimanjaro is positioned on the rim of the "Great Rift Valley" and offers travellers 52 luxurious suites and villas.
Lake Manyara Kilimanjaro Lodge is the perfect destination and lodge for those looking for something a little bit more budget-friendly without losing out on the wildlife experience.
Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge
Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge is centrally located to the Ngorongoro Crater, Oldeani, Lake Eyasi, Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Highlands, all of which are just a short drive away.
The lodge offers guests luxury and amazing 360-degree panoramic views out over the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, set high on the saddle of a ridge commanding panoramic views over the rolling reaches and volcanic reefs of the Reserve, is the ultimate fusion of traditional African architecture and world-class style.
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.