Zanzibar Food Guide: Top Dishes You Must Try

Zanzibar, also known as the Spice Island, has food like nowhere else in the world. As the best tour company in Zanzibar, we invite you to explore a regional cuisine that is a melting pot of Arabian, Indian, and Portuguese influences.

Must-Try Dishes: Advice from the Best Tour Company in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s culinary scene is a journey of flavors. Here are the top dishes you shouldn’t miss:

• Zanzibar Urojo (Zanzibar Mix): The most famous street food! This tangy soup is loaded with potatoes, bhajias, fried crispies, and coconut chutney. It’s a carb-filled meal that tastes best when served warm.
• Octopus Coconut Curry: This classic Zanzibari recipe is nourishing and tasty. The octopus is pre-boiled to tenderize it before simmering in rich coconut milk and local spices.
• Wali wa Nazi (Coconut Rice): A traditional delicacy of the coastal communities. It is prepared using fresh coconut milk, giving the rice a rich and creamy texture.
• Zanzibar Pizza: Unlike any pizza you’ve had before! Made with thin dough, ground meat, eggs, veggies, and cream cheese, it is one of the most popular snacks in Forodhani Gardens.

More Local Flavors to Explore

Our food tours, led by the best tour company in Zanzibar, will also introduce you to these staples:

• Chapati: A beautiful unleavened flatbread. It is versatile and pairs perfectly with almost any sweet or savory dish.
• Coconut Bean Soup: Blended with kidney beans and shredded coconut, this nutrient-rich dish is a favorite for both vegetarians and locals.
• Fresh Seafood: In Zanzibar, the seafood is so fresh it was likely swimming that morning! From lobster and kingfish to calamari and prawns, the variety is incredible.
• Ugali: The most common local staple made from white cornmeal. It’s easy to cook and perfectly complements vegetables, meat, or fish.

Ready to taste the real Zanzibar? Let the best tour company in Zanzibar guide you to the best local spots and hidden gems for an unforgettable food experience.