Stone Town, or old town, was Zanzibar‘s first town. Even now, it boasts houses and structures crafted from stones. This picturesque island offers a wide array of activities to do and a restaurant or two at every street corner.

While both Zanzibarians and foreigners adore basking in the warm sea breeze, leisurely strolls across the island are equally rejuvenating.

Before we delve into dining options, let’s explore some distinctive facets of the city.

Unique Architecture

Zanzibar’s architecture holds a distinct charm. Almost all buildings, if not every one of them, are constructed primarily using stones.

During my time there, I observed a few construction sites where builders mixed fine white sea sand with cement.

This technique lends a sense of simplicity to the houses, likely leading to thicker walls. The plastering on these walls is smoother, offering an unusual touch when felt.

A Muslim school in Stone Town

Religious Beliefs

The majority of the people on the island practice Islam. It’s a common sight to see women and children wearing hijabs of various colors and materials.

While most men didn’t wear long robes and hats as I expected, many opted for traditional Muslim attire. This imparts a distinctive religious atmosphere to the city.

Additionally, mosques are scattered throughout the area, often found on nearly every street corner.

The island isn’t entirely tranquil due to the frequent loud calls to prayer broadcasted from these mosques.

There were around three mosques close to where I stayed. The loud prayer calls from outdoor speakers woke me up at 5 am every morning.

While taking a long walk, I noticed a few Catholic churches in the town center near Stone Town.

I tried to find an international church online, but none were easily located.

Language Barrier

The primary language spoken by most Zanzibar Islanders is Swahili. S

ome of them had a basic understanding of English, but they couldn’t engage in extended conversations using it.

Surprisingly, I encountered difficulties in communication.

Although some people were willing to help with directions, they couldn’t express themselves well and often chose not to speak.

Which restaurant should you go to?

The streets of the island are lined with an array of restaurants, each offering something unique for every kind of visitor. Whether you’re lounging by the waves at Jambiani or strolling through Forodhani Beach, there’s no shortage of dining options to tempt your taste buds. I found a mix of Italian restaurants and places with a more Western vibe, each providing a taste of something familiar but with a local twist.

What really stood out to me, though, was the effort each restaurant put into creating an atmosphere that went beyond just food. Many of the spots were decorated with intricate carvings and artistic pieces, turning the dining space into something more like a gallery.

The stylish décor was matched by carefully curated menus, and in some places, even the plates made me pause in awe before I took my first bite. It wasn’t just the flavors that captivated me—it was the artistry woven into every corner. From colorful paintings to detailed drawings adorning the walls, each place was a feast for the eyes as much as it was for the stomach.

Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar resturant

At the distinctive boat-shaped restaurant perched at the edge of Farodaha Beach, is the Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar restuarnt. I felt rejuvenated being so close to the water. The setting was stunning, with the ocean breeze adding a refreshing touch to the atmosphere. The prices, unsurprisingly, matched the fancy outdoor setup and high-end furniture, but the experience of working or chatting while feeling the gentle breeze made it all worthwhile.

On my first visit, I decided to try the lobster with cream sauce and fried potato chips from the menu. Within minutes, the server arrived with a generous serving— a lobster with its belly open, revealing a rich filling of shrimp bathed in a creamy sauce.

A side of sauce came along, though I couldn’t help but notice that the dish could have used a touch more salt to bring out the flavors. Despite that small detail, the meal was an enjoyable treat, especially with the beautiful beach setting.

On my second visit there, l drank only Coca-Cola while working. Acceptably, their internet was high speed and l peacefully worked as l watched the sunset.

Train House restaurant

Tucked away in the historic heart of Stone Town, there’s a charming restaurant housed in a grand train-like structure that has stood the test of time.

The wooden chairs, with their intricate carvings, offered both comfort and character, while the African-themed decor on the walls added a vibrant touch to the atmosphere. The Train House restaurant is a must-visit for the following reasons.

Whether I needed a spot to get some work done or simply wanted to enjoy a relaxed conversation, this place provided the perfect setting.

What truly caught my attention was their innovative approach to the menu. Instead of the usual printed version, they offered a scannable code that customers could use. To access the menu, I had to connect to their WiFi network, which made the experience feel modern and tech-savvy. It was a small detail, but it gave the restaurant a unique, forward-thinking vibe.

What did I order?

I opted for the grilled chicken and fries, but unfortunately, the wait was over an hour before my meal arrived. When it finally did, the chicken was slightly burnt and lacked seasoning or salt, which was disappointing. The salad seemed like an odd combination of cabbage, tomatoes, and cucumbers, all tossed together without much thought.

Although takeaways were offered, I found that dining in provided a better experience. The high-speed Wi-Fi was excellent, making it a great spot for both work and relaxation. Despite the potential noise from the nearby market, if you can tune it out, the atmosphere here is still perfect for enjoying a relaxing lunch or a refreshing drink.

Paje Ocean restaurant

The beachside restaurant had a simple, modest vibe, with a few worn wooden tables and chairs. What really caught my eye, though, was their breakfast buffet priced at 20,000 TSH, which seemed like a great deal given the variety it offered.The beachside restaurant had a simple, modest vibe, with a few worn wooden tables and chairs. What really caught my eye, though, was their breakfast buffet priced at 20,000 TSH, which seemed like a great deal given the variety it offered.

Despite the breathtaking view, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the restaurant offered reliable Wi-Fi. While I enjoyed the setting, I watched as they harvested coconuts from the many trees on the property. The coconuts were larger than those I had seen elsewhere, and the juice inside was wonderfully sweet.

The restaurant’s main wall featured a striking steel fishbone decoration, adding a unique touch that was both simple and eye-catching.

Mama Naa restaurant

For those seeking an affordable meal, Mama Naa Restaurant in Jambiani is an excellent option. Despite the basic plastic chairs and tables, I had a hearty meal of rice and potato soup with beef that only cost 5000 TSH—the most budget-friendly meal I’ve had at any restaurant in Zanzibar.

The portion was generous enough to satisfy my hunger, and I was truly impressed by how much food I got for such a low price.

On my second visit, I choose fried rice. Apparently, the quantity was sufficient for my stomach demands but the taste wasn’t delicious. I wasn’t too surprised I got just a slice of beef, but I should have expected so. 

Pilipili Restaurant

Located just a meter from Jambiani Beach, this restaurant offered an exceptional view. It’s one of two establishments near the expansive Pili Pili Hotel. I was particularly impressed by the wooden canoe-like tables set into the sand. It was paired with a solid cemented couch for seating.

The hut-style section of the restaurant was decorated with beautiful paintings on every wall, and the atmosphere was enhanced by pleasant, lively music, creating a perfect vibe for a relaxed dining experience.

The restaurant also offered a variety of local and international dishes, making it a great spot for any craving. I enjoyed the fresh seafood, which was perfectly cooked and served with a side of tangy dipping sauces. The staff were friendly and attentive, adding to the overall welcoming atmosphere. As the sun began to set, the view became even more stunning, with the golden light reflecting off the waves, creating a truly magical setting. Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, this spot provides a perfect mix of good food, great service, and breathtaking surroundings.

The restaurant had an open-air area with wooden chairs and tables, offering a perfect spot to enjoy the sea breeze. The waiter, Samuel, was exceptionally kind and even took me to their other location so I could check out their menu, which featured only tapas.

I decided to try the green banana fish tapas, served in a coconut shell plate. While the portion was small, the combination of banana and peanut fish paste was absolutely delicious. It made it a unique and flavorful dish.

Dhow Resort Jambiani Zanzibar

At the far end of Jambiani Beach sits the spacious Dhow Resort Jambiani Zanzibar restaurant. One evening, I relaxed on the outer bench-like seats, enjoying the soothing sea breeze. To add comfort, they provided soft cushions on the wooden seats, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Although I only ordered a drink, I was pleasantly surprised by a warm, unexpected treat. A waiter quickly handed me a wooden menu and took the time to explain their beverage options with great care.

The atmosphere at the restaurant was incredibly inviting, with the gentle sound of the waves in the background and the soft glow from lanterns lighting the space. The waitstaff were not only attentive but also took time to ensure I had everything I needed, creating a relaxing and welcoming environment.

As the evening wore on, the beach’s tranquility combined with the pleasant service made it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a peaceful moment by the sea. Uncertain about what to order, the waiter patiently listened to my preferences and offered me a drink to try at no charge. I chose the Stony Tangawizi, a Coca-Cola ginger soda. It had a distinctive taste, with a bold ginger flavor that really stood out.

To my surprise, the waiter also brought out complimentary popcorn and fried peanuts. However, the peanuts had a spice I couldn’t quite place, making it hard to continue enjoying the free snacks.

As you envision these tasty experiences, rest assured that finding a good restaurant here isn’t difficult. Beyond the spots I’ve mentioned, there are plenty of eateries scattered along the streets. Even the beaches, offering something for every taste.

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