best-places-to-eat-in-Zanzibar Town

Street Food Heaven: Best Places to Eat in Zanzibar Town

Zanzibar Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only famous for its stunning architecture and rich history but also for its vibrant food scene. The town offers a wide range of delicious street food options that showcase the island’s unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian flavors. Here are some of the best places to eat in Zanzibar Town:

1. Forodhani Food Market

Located on the seafront, Forodhani Food Market is a must-visit for any food enthusiast. The market offers a variety of street food stalls serving everything from fresh seafood to traditional Swahili dishes like urojo (a spicy soup) and vitumbua (coconut rice cakes). Try the grilled octopus or fish kebabs, which are cooked to perfection on wooden skewers.

2. Darajani Market

Darajani Market is another popular spot for street food lovers. The market offers a range of stalls selling fresh produce, spices, and local snacks like fried plantains and cassava chips. Be sure to try the Zanzibari-style biryani, which is made with a mix of rice, meat or fish, and a blend of aromatic spices.

3. Mkunazini Street Food

Mkunazini is a bustling street in the heart of Stone Town that’s lined with food stalls and restaurants. Try the popular dish, nyama choma (roasted meat), which is typically served with a side of kachumbari (a tomato and onion salad). You can also find vendors selling fresh coconut water, sugarcane juice, and traditional Zanzibari sweets like halwa.

4. Stone Town Night Food Market

Every evening, the streets of Stone Town come alive with food stalls and vendors selling a variety of street food options. The night market is a great place to try some local specialties like grilled meat skewers, fried doughnuts, and sweet potato fries.

5. Mwanzo Coffee Shop

Mwanzo Coffee Shop is a cozy café located in the heart of Stone Town that serves an excellent cup of coffee made from locally sourced beans. The shop also offers a range of snacks like samosas, chapatis, and Zanzibari-style pastries.

Tips and Precautions

  • Always eat at stalls or restaurants that are busy and have a high turnover of food to ensure freshness.
  • Make sure to wash your hands before eating and avoid eating from stalls that don’t follow proper hygiene practices.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines, especially during peak season.
  • Don’t be afraid to try new things and engage with the locals – they’re always happy to share their culinary traditions!

Conclusion

Zanzibar Town is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of street food options that showcase the island’s unique cultural heritage. From traditional Swahili dishes to fresh seafood and local snacks, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant town. So come and indulge your taste buds in the best places to eat in Zanzibar Town!