Zanzibar is not simply a mere island, it’s a sensory delight. The aroma of cloves fills the atmosphere in the market and the waves crash on the shore with their own rhythm, everything feels magical. But for food lovers, the real adventure begins at the table.
Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island,” a nickname that conjures up images of unique cuisine whose origins trace back to centuries of trade with Arabs, Indians, Persians, and Europeans. Zanzibar’s culinary landscape is vibrant and derived from a rich heritage of flavorful spices, tropical ingredients, and coastal cuisine.
Whether you’re strolling through the markets of Stone Town or enjoying a lazy afternoon by the beach, food is never just food in Zanzibar—it’s an experience. And if you’re lucky enough to be staying at one of the best resorts in Zanzibar, you’ll find that local cuisine is not only accessible, but often part of the stay itself.
Here’s a look at 10 traditional Zanzibar dishes that every food enthusiast should try when visiting this incredible island.
1. Zanzibar Pizza
Let’s kick things off with one of the island’s most iconic street foods—Zanzibar pizza. Don’t expect mozzarella and marinara. This version is more like a savory stuffed pancake, with fillings that range from minced beef, onions, and egg to mayo and cheese. It’s fried to a crispy golden brown and served hot off the pan. There are also sweet variations with Nutella, mango, or banana that hit the spot for dessert.
2. Urojo (Zanzibar Mix)
Urojo is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a thick soup made from flour, turmeric, mango, and tamarind, ladled over a chaotic mix of boiled potatoes, cassava fritters, bhajias, hard-boiled eggs, and sometimes pieces of meat or seafood. The gentle heat from the chili sauce adds a perfect burst of flavor.
Served warm in a bowl, it’s the kind of dish that fills you up and makes you feel at home, even if you’re 5,000 miles away from your own.
3. Pilau
A celebration dish that’s become a daily favorite, pilau is spiced rice often served with meat or vegetables. What sets Zanzibari pilau apart is the deep aroma—thanks to cloves, cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom—that fills the air before your first bite. The rice is fluffy, the spices are warm, and when paired with stewed meat or fresh salad, it’s simply perfect.
4. Octopus Curry
Living so close to the ocean has its advantages, not the least of which is the abundance of seafood. Octopus curry, local favorite, is a unique treat that develops its flavor profile from a slow simmer in coconut milk, along with fresh garlic, lime juice, turmeric, and other ingredients. The meat becomes tender, and absorbs a rich and tropical taste. It is served with rice or chapati, providing a creamy meal that is very comforting and flavorful as a representation of island life.
5. Mchuzi wa Pweza (Octopus Stew)
While octopus curry is coconut-based, Mchuzi wa Pweza uses a tomato base and leans into the savory side. The dish is made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and chili. The flavors are deep, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying. Try it with steamed rice or even plantains for a traditional pairing.
6. Mishkaki
If you love grilled meat, then Mishkaki is your dish. Succulent skewers loaded with marinated beef or chicken are grilled over open flames until they’re perfectly charred and juicy. They’re typically sold by street vendors and served with a side of spicy sauce. Grab a few sticks, find a spot on the beach, and enjoy the flavors as the sun sets—it’s a simple pleasure that hits just right.
7. Samaki wa Kupaka (Grilled Fish with Coconut Sauce)
Samaki wa Kupaka is one of Zanzibar’s standout dishes. It’s a whole fish, usually freshly caught, marinated and grilled, then smothered in a rich coconut sauce flavored with lemon, garlic, and chili. It’s the perfect mix of smoky, creamy, spicy, and citrusy.
There’s nothing quite like enjoying this dish with your feet in the sand and the ocean breeze in your hair.
8. Vitumbua
Vitumbua are sweet, spongy rice cakes made with coconut milk, cardamom, and a hint of sugar. They’re prepared in a unique pan that creates a golden, crispy outside while keeping the center soft and fluffy. Often enjoyed at breakfast or as a tasty snack, they go perfectly with a cup of spiced tea.
They may look small, but they pack a lot of flavor and nostalgia for many Zanzibaris.
9. Fresh Seafood Mix Platter
For seafood lovers, this one’s a dream. A mix platter often includes prawns, lobster, calamari, grilled fish, and octopus—all fresh from the sea and cooked to bring out their natural flavors. Usually served with sides like rice or salad, it’s a must-try if you want a little bit of everything the ocean has to offer.
10. Biryani ya Zanzibar
Zanzibari biryani is a celebration in itself. The dish is elaborate and often served during weddings or festivals, but you can also find it in many local restaurants. The meat—usually chicken, beef, or goat—is cooked separately in spices, while the rice is parboiled and layered with the meat, fried onions, raisins, and sometimes hard-boiled eggs. The final result is fragrant, colorful, and absolutely delicious.
Where to Eat & Stay
Zanzibar’s food is best enjoyed where it’s made with heart—and that can be anywhere from a roadside stall to a beachfront resort. If you’re seeking a place that combines great local flavors with relaxing luxury, Azao Resort and Spa offers an unforgettable experience. The resort is nestled along the northeast coast of the island, and it’s not only one of the best resorts in Zanzibar, but also home to Palma Court Restaurant, a beautiful Zanzibar ocean view restaurant. Experience the island’s culinary heritage against the backdrop of panoramic Indian Ocean vistas.
Whether you’re indulging in a rich octopus curry or a sweet Vitumbua, enjoying these flavors against a backdrop of swaying palms and turquoise waters makes the experience all the more memorable.
To read more blogs, click here: Zanzibar’s Hidden Beach Gems: Lesser-Known Paradise Spots
