Zanzibar, the spice island of Tanzania, is a paradise for beach lovers and a heaven for foodies.
With its rich history and culture, Zanzibar offers a variety of cuisines and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
And if you are a seafood lover, you are in for a treat.
Zanzibar has abundant fresh seafood, from fish and prawns to octopus and lobster.
Whether you prefer grilled, fried, or stewed, you will find a seafood dish that suits your palate.
Keep scrolling as we introduce you to some of the top seafood dishes in Zanzibar and where to find them.
So, get ready to explore the culinary delights of this island with us!
Common Seafood in Zanzibar
Before we delve into the top seafood dishes in Zanzibar, we think you should know the various common seafood found on this island. They include:
1. Tuna
2. Snapper
3. Kingfish
4. Lobster
5. Octopus
6. Calamari
7. Prawns
8. Crabs
9. Barracuda
10. Grouper
11. Sailfish
12. Clams and oysters
Top Seafood Dishes To Try In Zanzibar
For the Grill Enthusiasts
1. Grilled Fish
Fresh fish is marinated in a blend of spices, including turmeric, ginger, and garlic, and grilled over an open flame.
It is typically served with rice and vegetables or french fries,, especially in the beach.
Try kingfish for its sweet and firm texture, barracuda for its bold flavor, or grouper for its meaty richness.
2. Grilled Lobster
This is the best seafood you should try in Zanzibar.
You can eat it from the hotel or activities like Mnemba Snorkeling or Blue Safari.
You can also find grilled lobsters on the beach at many seafood restaurants in Zanzibar.
Elevate your lobster feast with simple yet vibrant sides.
Grilled corn on the cob, roasted sweet potato wedges, or a refreshing mango salsa provide perfect counterpoints to the richness of the lobster.
Grilled lobsters are usually served with rice or grilled vegetables and often come with dipping sauces such as garlic butter, lemon juice, or chili sauce.
3. Grilled Calamari
Tender calamari tubes and tentacles are grilled and served with garlic butter, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of herbs. It is mostly served in Blue Safari and with French fries and rice.
You can pair it with vibrant and healthy sides like grilled pineapple slices, a refreshing tomato and cucumber salad, or crispy potato wedges.
Grilled calamari in Zanzibar celebrates fresh seafood, bold flavors, and island vibes.
4. Mashawi ya Baharini
A seafood barbecue extravaganza featuring skewers of grilled calamari, prawns, lobster, and fish marinated in spices and char-grilled to perfection.
For the Curry Adventurers
1. Prawn Curry
Zanzibar’s most famous prawn dish is the Zanzibari Prawn Curry, a spicy and flavorful dish made with prawns cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce with a blend of local spices and Vegetables.
Pair your prawn curry with fluffy coconut rice, fragrant pilau rice, or even crusty naan bread to scoop up the delicious sauce.
Other popular prawn dishes in Zanzibar include prawn skewers and Fried prawns.
2. Zanzibar Fish Curry
A spicy curry made with any fish type, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices, served with rice and chapati.
Tuna, Merlin, Mahi Mahi, and various Snappers are mostly served fish.
Zanzibar Fish Curry is more than just a meal; it celebrates fresh seafood, vibrant spices, and Zanzibari culture.
3. Octopus Curry
Octopus is a popular seafood in Zanzibar, and the curry is a delicious way to enjoy it.
“Mchuzi wa Ngisi,” is the Swahili name for Zanzibar Octopus Curry.
The octopus is cooked in a fragrant curry sauce with coconut milk mixed with tomatoes, onions, and other spices.
The curry can be served with rice, chapati, or Ugali.
Zanzibar Octopus Curry is a delightful dance of textures, flavors, and cultural heritage.
4. Kamba Kari
Spicy prawn curry featuring juicy prawns cooked in a coconut milk-based curry with bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for mopping up with naan bread.
For the Light and Refreshing
1. Crab Soup
Crab meat is simmered with coconut milk, onions, garlic, and various spices to create a rich, creamy, comforting, and flavorful soup.
Also, sometimes, they can be cooked without removing their shells.
Add pops of color and texture with chopped vegetables like onions, tomatoes, peppers, or eggplant.
Chopped okra is a common Zanzibari addition, providing a delightful textural contrast.
Fluffy coconut rice is the ultimate partner, soaking up the flavorful broth like a champ.
Pilau rice or crusty naan bread are also fantastic options. Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lime for a final kiss of brightness.
2. Seafood Paella Zanzibar
Are you a fan of Seafood Paella? You can test here in Zanzibar. But, it is not something you can order in the local restaurant. Instead, you can order from your Resort.
Seafood Paella is a Spanish-inspired dish. Seafood paella is made with rice, fish, prawns, mussels, and calamari, cooked in a saffron-infused broth and other Zanzibar Spices.
“Mkate wa Samaki” is the Swahili name for Zanzibar Seafood Paella.
Zanzibari Seafood Paella embraces warmth and vibrancy. Turmeric, ginger, cumin, coriander, and paprika combine for a symphony of flavor.
Traditional paella is cooked in a shallow pan called a “paellera” over open flames.
3. Fish Kebabs
Fish cubes are marinated with a blend of spices, skewered and grilled, then served with coconut rice and chutney.
You can order it from your Hotel, which is unavailable from the local Restaurants.
“Samaki wa Kuumwa” is the Swahili name for Zanzibari fish kebabs.
Pair your fish kebabs with vibrant and healthy sides.
Grilled pineapple slices, a refreshing tomato and cucumber salad, or crispy potato wedges offer perfect counterpoints to the richness of the fish.
Best Places to Eat Seafoods In Zanzibar?
1. The Rock Restaurant
Perched on a rock off the coast of Michamvi Pingwe, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and endless horizon.
Imagine enjoying a romantic dinner with waves lapping at the base of your table, watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues.
The Rock is renowned for its fresh seafood dishes, showcasing the bounty of the Indian Ocean.
Lobster, king prawns, octopus, and local fish are prepared with a Swahili twist, incorporating fragrant spices and creamy coconut milk.
You’ll also find international options and vegetarian/vegan dishes on the menu.
Address: Pingwe, Michamvi, Tanzania
2. The Emerson Spice Hotel & Restaurant
This intimate open-air restaurant offers a five-course culinary journey showcasing the freshest local catches.
Imagine savoring pan-seared scallops with mango salsa, grilled lobster with coconut risotto, and tuna tataki with avocado and wakame seaweed.
The tasting menu experience goes beyond just the food.
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean as you savor each course, paired with carefully selected wines or refreshing mocktails.
Tucked away in a hidden courtyard, this romantic oasis offers a diverse menu with Swahili and international influences.
While not solely seafood-focused, there’s always a tempting selection of fish and shellfish dishes.
Address: 1494, Tharia Street TZ, 1497 Kiponda, Zanzibar 4044, Tanzania
3. Mangi’s Restaurant
It’s known for its fresh seafood, friendly service, and lively atmosphere.
The restaurant is located right on the beach, so you can enjoy stunning views of the Indian Ocean while you dine.
The interior is stylish and inviting, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.
The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, as well as other options like pizza, pasta, and salads.
The seafood is always fresh and perfectly cooked, and the flavors are bold and flavorful.
The service at Mangi’s is friendly and attentive.
The staff is always happy to help you choose the perfect dish and ensure a great dining experience.
Address: Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar, Tanzania
4. The Jahazi Grill
It’s known for its fresh seafood, delicious cocktails, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
The restaurant is located on the beach, so you can enjoy the sound of the waves and the smell of the sea while you dine.
The interior is stylish and inviting, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.
The menu features a variety of seafood dishes and other options like steaks, pasta, and salads.
The seafood is always fresh and perfectly cooked, and the flavors are bold and flavorful.
Address: Zanzibar International Airport, Zanzibar, Tanzania
5. Ali Baba Restaurant
The restaurant is located on the beach, so you can enjoy the sound of the waves and the smell of the sea while you dine.
The interior is stylish and inviting, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.
The menu features a variety of seafood dishes and other options like steaks, pasta, and salads.
The seafood is always fresh and perfectly cooked, and the flavors are bold and flavorful.
The cocktails at Jahazi Grill are some of the best on the island.
They’re made with fresh ingredients and creative combinations and sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Address: Kenyatta Rd, Zanzibar 71101, Tanzania
6. Forodhani Gardens
Forodhani Gardens is a small park in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania.
The gardens are located along the main seawalk of Stone Town, just in front of the most famous buildings of Stone Town, i.e., the House of Wonders and the Old Fort.
The gardens are especially busy after sunset, when tourists and locals gather in a popular food street market in the main square to have dinner, enjoying Swahili and Zanzibari cuisine delicacies such as grilled seafood, samoosas, cassava, and sweet potatoes.
This is the most popular dish at the market. You can choose from seafood, including lobster, shrimp, fish, and octopus. The seafood is always fresh and perfectly cooked.
Address: Forodhani Park, Zanzibar, Tanzania
7. The Zanzibar Pearl
The hotel’s restaurant, The Pearl Grill, serves fresh seafood, international cuisine, and Zanzibari specialties.
The restaurant has a large outdoor terrace with stunning views of the ocean.
The Zanzibar Pearl is a great choice for travelers looking for a luxurious and relaxing vacation in Zanzibar.
The hotel offers something for everyone, from stunning accommodations and views to excellent service and delicious food.
Address: Matemwe Zanzibar TZ, 2762, Tanzania
Conclusion
Zanzibar is a paradise for seafood lovers, with its fresh and abundant seafood and diverse and delicious cuisines.
From grilled fish and octopus curry to crab soup and lobster, you will find a seafood dish satisfying your cravings.
Zanzibar is a destination that will enchant you with its flavors, sights, and sounds.
What are you waiting for?
Book your trip to Zanzibar today, and get ready to experience the culinary delights of this island.
Bon appétit!
