Stone Town, the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its old narrow alleys, stunning architecture, History and vibrant local souvenirs shops. It’s also home to some of the best restaurants on the island, serving a variety of cuisines from local Zanzibari dishes to international cuisines.
Here are the best restaurants in Stone Town you should try.
Emerson Spice
Emerson Spice is an iconic restaurant in Stone Town, located in a beautifully restored 19th-century merchant’s house. The restaurant serves Swahili and fusion cuisine and offers stunning views of the Stone Town and Indian Ocean from its rooftop terrace.
There are two different restaurants in the same Hotel, the first one on the ground called The Secret Garden Restaurant and the second one on the rooftop called Tea House.
Swahili House Restaurant
Swahili House is a boutique hotel and restaurant located in the heart of Stone Town. The restaurant is situated on the rooftop terrace, offering stunning views of the city.
Their menu features a fusion of Swahili and international cuisine, with a focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Darajani Market. This Hotel was designed inside to reflect the theme of its name ‘Swahili House’.
Maru Maru Restaurant
Maru Maru is a stylish boutique hotel and restaurant located in the heart of Stone Town. The restaurant is situated on the rooftop terrace, offering stunning views of the Stone Town. Their menu features a fusion of Indian and African cuisine, with a focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the local markets and beach.
Cape Town Fish Market Restaurant
Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar is a seafood restaurant located on the waterfront in Stone Town, at Forodhani Garden. The restaurant is part of the Cape Town Fish Market chain, which has several locations throughout Africa, including South Africa and Namibia.
As the name suggests, Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar specializes in fresh seafood, with a menu featuring a variety of fish, prawns, calamari, and lobster. The restaurant sources its seafood from local Markets and fishermen, ensuring that only the freshest and highest quality ingredients are used in their dishes.
In addition to seafood, the restaurant also offers a selection of meat and vegetarian dishes, as well as sushi and other Japanese-inspired dishes. Including different fresh juices made by the tropical fruits from Zanzibar Islands
Lukmaan Restaurant
Lukmaan Restaurant is a local and tourists favorite, known for its mixture of delicious and affordable Zanzibari and Indian cuisine. Located on Mkunazini Street in Stone Town, this bustling restaurant is always busy, but the food is worth the wait.
Their signature dishes include Mchuzi wa Pweza, Ndizi, and the Zanzibar Mix, which isa popular street food dish made with spiced meats, potatoes and some salad.
The Silk Route
Located just behind Forodhani Garden, The Silk Route serves up authentic Indian cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant has a contemporary, minimalist decor, and their menu features a range of tandoori dishes, curries, and biryanis that are cooked to perfection.
The restaurant is located on the second floor of the building, the ground floor of the building. There are a variety of Gemstone shops. You can check them out if you are interested. Check our guide on Shopping in Stone Town.
Puzzle Coffee Shop
If you are looking for the best coffee restaurant, then this is for you. The Puzzle Coffee Shop is a cozy and colorful cafe in Stone Town, serving excellent coffee and homemade pastries. The cafe is decorated with local artwork and is a perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of exploring Stone Town.
Livingstone Beach Restaurant
This is the famous restaurant in Stone Town located close to Tembo House Hotel. The restaurant serves a variety of local and international cuisines, including fresh seafood dishes such as grilled prawns, lobster, and fish curry.
The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan options, catering to a variety of dietary needs. In the ground floor of the restaurant, you can organize activities such as snorkeling, Sunset Dhow Cruise, scuba diving, and fishing.
6 Degrees South Grill
6 Degrees South is a popular restaurant, modern designed, that serves contemporary international cuisine, including burgers, Italian pizzas, and salads. Also, you can order different seafood and meat options. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and stunning location for the sunset in Stone Town.
La Taverna Restaurant
This is the best Italian restaurant in Stone Town, located at Mkunazini street close to Darajani Market and Jamhuri Garden. The restaurant offers a wide variety of Italian cuisine, including pizza, pasta, and seafood dishes. The atmosphere of the restaurant is cozy and romantic, even though it is not a quiet place, but still worth visiting with your partner or a family.
Zanzibar Coffee House Cafe
Zanzibar Coffee House is a perfect destination for coffee and food lovers in Stone Town. The cafe is known for its excellent coffee, which is made from the fresh beans sourced from Tanzania mainland, and its wide variety of breakfast, lunch, and stunning dessert options. If you are curious about Zanzibar cuisines, we highly recommend you visit this restaurant.
FAQ about restaurants in Stone Town
What types of cuisine can I order in Stone Town restaurants?
Restaurants in Stone Town offer a variety of cuisines, including seafood, African, Indian, Italian, and local Zanzibar foods.
Are there vegetarian restaurants in Stone Town?
Yes, there are a lot of vegetarian restaurants, if you are vegan in Stone Town, we recommend you try a restaurant which is inside the Hotel in case you don’t find one.
What is the average cost of a meal in Stone Town?
The cost of a meal in restaurants in Stone Town is relatively cheaper compared to other places. Around $15 – $45.
Do I need to make reservations before visiting restaurants in Stone Town?
Not necessary, but It’s a good idea to make a reservation especially during peak tourist season. Learn more about When to visit Zanzibar.
What are some of the must-try dishes in Stone Town?
Some of the must-try dishes in Stone Town and Zanzibar as a whole are seafood platters, grilled lobster, and coconut curries. If you are a food lover, book our snorkeling tour which includes Seafoods lunch.
Do restaurants in Stone Town accept credit cards?
Some restaurants do accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry cash when visiting Zanzibar as there are many places that don’t accept cards.
Check our guide For Travelers about Currency in Zanzibar.
Do I need a guide in Stone Town?
Though you can visit by yourself, it is a good idea to book a guide for Stone Town. this way you will confidently explore the Stone Town.
Is it worth visiting Forodhani Night Market?
If you are in Stone Town or any other beach, it’s worth visiting Forodhani Night Market, where you can try some foods which are not in the Hotel. Foods like Zanzibar Pizza, Fried Breadfruits, and Urojo.
