Best Seafood Restaurants in Zanzibar – Top Spots for Fresh, Authentic & Unforgettable Flavors (2025 Guide)
Zanzibar is a paradise for seafood lovers — from Indian Ocean–fresh catches to aromatic Swahili spices that turn every plate into a masterpiece. Whether you’re exploring Stone Town’s historic alleys or relaxing on beaches like Nungwi and Paje, the island is filled with restaurants that deliver world-class seafood experiences.
Here is Serengeti Clarity’s expertly curated list of the best seafood restaurants in Zanzibar, including must-try dishes, locations, each place’s unique vibe, and insider travel tips.
Perfect for travelers planning a romantic dinner, a beach day, or an authentic local food adventure!
1. The Rock Restaurant – Michamvi
🌊 The most iconic seafood restaurant in Zanzibar.
Perched dramatically on a rock in the Indian Ocean, The Rock offers a dining experience like no other—accessible by foot during low tide or by boat during high tide.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Grilled lobster
- Octopus salad
- Seafood pasta with fresh, local herbs
Why Visit:
The views are surreal, the food is exceptional, and the atmosphere is unforgettable. Perfect for photos, proposals, or a dreamy lunch by the ocean.
2. Emerson on Hurumzi Tea House – Stone Town
🏰 A rooftop dining experience infused with culture.
Set atop a historic Stone Town building, this iconic restaurant combines Zanzibari fine dining with live Taarab music. The ambiance feels like stepping back into the spice trade era.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Zanzibari seafood curry
- Coconut prawns
- Spiced grilled fish
Why Visit:
Perfect for a romantic evening under the stars with panoramic views over Stone Town’s rooftops.
3. Forodhani Gardens Night Market – Stone Town
🍢 The heart of Zanzibar street food culture.
Every evening, Forodhani transforms into a lively, colorful food market filled with local chefs grilling some of the freshest seafood dishes on the island.
Must-Try:
- Seafood skewers
- Zanzibar lobster
- Prawns in garlic
- The famous Zanzibar Pizza
Why Visit:
Budget-friendly, fun, social, and the perfect way to experience local flavors.
Tip: Go between 6–9 PM for the best variety and freshest food.
4. Lukmaan Restaurant – Stone Town
🍛 Authentic Swahili cuisine at its finest.
Lukmaan is a beloved local favorite offering traditional dishes prepared with Zanzibari spices and fresh Indian Ocean flavors.
Must-Try:
- Octopus curry
- Grilled kingfish
- Prawn biryani
Why Visit:
Affordable, flavorsome, and truly local. A must-stop for foodies.
5. Cape Town Fish Market – Nungwi
🐟 A modern beachfront seafood experience.
Located on Nungwi Beach, this restaurant blends international cuisine with Zanzibari freshness.
Must-Try:
- Sushi platters
- Grilled red snapper
- Seafood sharing platters
Why Visit:
Chic, relaxing, and perfect for sunset dining with your feet in the sand.
6. The Beach House – Stone Town
🍷 Elegant seaside dining with European-Zanzibar fusion flavors.
This stylish restaurant sits right on the Stone Town waterfront, offering stunning ocean views and beautifully plated seafood dishes.
Must-Try:
- Calamari grill
- Zanzibar seafood pasta
- Fresh catch of the day
Why Visit:
Ideal for travelers looking for good wine, fresh seafood, and a chilled beach atmosphere.
7. Samaki Samaki – Nungwi
🍣 Vibrant, modern, and perfect for groups.
A lively restaurant known for delicious seafood, music, and a happy, youthful vibe.
Must-Try:
- Mixed seafood platter
- Sushi rolls
- Grilled jumbo prawns
Why Visit:
Perfect for travelers who want food + fun + nightlife energy.
8. Mzee Husa Chef – Paje
🔥 A hidden gem with a local touch.
Located in the relaxed beach village of Paje, this restaurant is popular among locals and travelers who love authentic food with a homely feel.
Must-Try:
- Coconut fish curry
- Octopus skewers
- Mixed grilled seafood platter
Why Visit:
Affordable, delicious, and a great way to enjoy Paje’s relaxed surf-town atmosphere.
9. Fisherman’s Seafood & Grill – Kendwa
⚓ Fresh from the ocean, grilled to perfection.
Located on Kendwa Beach—famous for its clear waters and stunning sunsets—this restaurant specializes in freshly caught seafood grilled right in front of you.
Must-Try:
- Whole grilled fish
- Lobster
- Crab in garlic butter
Why Visit:
Great value, fresh ingredients, and a peaceful beach ambiance.
10. Chez Ali Beach Restaurant – Uroa
🌴 Authentic village-style seafood by the ocean.
Known for large portions and locally sourced seafood, Chez Ali is a favorite of travelers looking for genuine, humble Zanzibar cooking.
Must-Try:
- Octopus coconut stew
- Grilled calamari
- Mixed seafood curry
Why Visit:
Quiet, relaxed, and authentic—no crowds, just flavor and ocean breeze.
⭐ Additional Travel Tips for Seafood Lovers in Zanzibar
To add value for your readers, here are bonus insights:
✔ All seafood is best eaten fresh — choose restaurants near fishing villages like Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, and Jambiani.
✔ Afraid of spicy food? Ask for “mild” — Zanzibari spices can be strong but delicious.
✔ For the best experience, make reservations at The Rock and Emerson in advance.
✔ Night markets are perfect for tasting multiple dishes in one night.
✔ Always check the daily catch — fresher seafood tastes far better.
Ready to Taste Zanzibar’s Best Seafood?
Whether you love grilled lobster, octopus curry, or sushi by the ocean, Zanzibar offers endless culinary adventures. As Serengeti Clarity, we help travelers discover not just the wildlife of Tanzania — but the food, culture, and experiences that make every journey unforgettable.
If you need help planning your Zanzibar holiday, we are here for you.
Karibu Zanzibar — welcome to the island of spices and sea!
