The exotic island archipelago of Zanzibar located off the coast of Tanzania is not only the paradise of the beach lovers and adventure seekers, but also the paradise of food lovers. Zanzibar has a very diverse culture that can be seen in its rich culinary scenery due to its African, Arab, Indian, and European influences. When you are going on a vacation with Zanzibar Tour Packages, Zanzibar Holiday Packages, or you are seeking tour packages to Zanzibar that are made to perfection, you cannot afford to miss the local dishes that will make you remember each bite. To have a good travel experience with inside information on food recommendations, go to go kite travel, the best travel agency in Dubai, which is your best friend in creating the best Holiday Packages to Zanzibar
Here’s A Guide To The Must-Try Dishes In Zanzibar That You Simply Can't Miss During Your Visit.
1. Zanzibar Pizza – A Street Food Favorite
Despite its name, Zanzibar pizza is quite different from the Italian version. It’s a popular street food made by stuffing dough with a mix of ingredients such as minced meat, vegetables, eggs, mayonnaise, and cheese before frying it on a hot pan.
Often found in Forodhani Gardens Night Market in Stone Town.
Both savory and sweet versions (with chocolate, bananas, or mangoes) are available.
Whether included in your street food tour or a casual evening stroll, Zanzibar pizza is a must-have in many Zanzibar Tour Packages.
2. Urojo – Zanzibar Mix
Urojo, also known as Zanzibar Mix, is a flavorful and spicy soup made from mango and coconut, mixed with fritters, boiled potatoes, eggs, and sometimes meat skewers.
It's tangy, spicy, and rich in texture.
Commonly served as a light meal or afternoon snack.
Many Zanzibar Holiday Packages include food tours where you’ll get a chance to taste this signature street dish.
3. Biryani and Pilau – A Legacy of Indian Influence
Biryani and pilau are spiced rice dishes introduced by Indian traders but now deeply rooted in Zanzibar’s cuisine.
Zanzibar biryani is often served with chicken, beef, or fish and accompanied by kachumbari (a local salad).
Pilau is more mildly spiced and often includes cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
These dishes are especially popular during festive occasions and are staples in many local restaurants included in Tour Packages to Zanzibar.
4. Octopus Curry – A Seafood Delight
Being surrounded by the Indian Ocean, it’s no surprise that seafood dominates the island’s cuisine. One of the most popular dishes is octopus curry, which is creamy, spicy, and rich with coconut milk.
Often cooked with garlic, lime, chili, and turmeric.
Served with rice or chapati for a hearty meal.
A highlight in many food-centric Holiday Packages to Zanzibar, this dish is a favorite among seafood lovers.
5. Zanzibar Pilipili (Hot Sauce)
Not exactly a dish, but Pilipili, the local hot sauce, is an essential part of Zanzibar dining. Made with pounded chilies, garlic, vinegar, and lime, it adds a kick to nearly every meal.
Found on every table, from street stalls to fine dining restaurants.
Great to take home as a souvenir for spice lovers.
No food journey in Zanzibar is complete without a taste of this fiery condiment—often highlighted in culinary trails featured in Zanzibar Tour Packages.
6. Chapati – Indian Flatbread with a Local Twist
Chapati is a popular flatbread commonly eaten with curries, soups, or simply with tea.
Made with wheat flour and cooked on a skillet.
Unlike Indian chapatis, the Zanzibari version is slightly thicker and often more flavorful due to added spices.
This bread accompanies many meals and is a staple in most traditional meals covered in Zanzibar Holiday Packages.
7. Samaki wa Kupaka – Grilled Fish with Coconut Sauce
Samaki wa Kupaka means “fish with coating,” and it refers to grilled fish that’s been basted with a coconut-based sauce and grilled to perfection.
Usually served whole with lemon, rice, and vegetables.
The sauce is made from coconut milk, garlic, ginger, and sometimes groundnuts.
This coastal delight is a must on any seafood lover’s list when exploring the island through Tour Packages to Zanzibar.
8. Ndizi Nyama – Plantain and Beef Stew
Ndizi Nyama combines two East African staples: bananas (or plantains) and meat. This hearty stew is made with plantains cooked in a savory beef broth flavored with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and spices.
Perfect for lunch or dinner.
Often served with rice or chapati.
If you're booking culturally immersive Holiday Packages to Zanzibar, this dish will give you a true taste of local home-style cooking.
9. Vitumbua – Coconut Rice Pancakes
Vitumbua are small, fluffy rice cakes flavored with coconut and cardamom, usually eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
Similar in texture to doughnuts but less sweet.
Best enjoyed fresh from a street vendor with a cup of spiced tea.
Many food tours included in Zanzibar Tour Packages will let you sample this delightful treat in local neighborhoods.
10. Fresh Tropical Fruits and Juices
Zanzibar is blessed with an abundance of fresh fruits like mangoes, pineapples, passionfruit, bananas, jackfruit, and papayas.
Try sugarcane juice, fresh coconut water, and unique blends of tropical fruit smoothies.
The famous Zanzibar spice tour also lets you sample fruit fresh from the trees.
These natural delicacies are a healthy and refreshing way to complement your island meals and are often part of wellness-oriented Holiday Packages to Zanzibar.
Final Thoughts: Savor the Flavors of Zanzibar with Go Kite Travel
Zanzibar’s cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, history, and culture. Whether you’re indulging in street food in Stone Town, enjoying fresh seafood by the beach, or dining in a traditional village, every dish tells a story of the island’s diverse heritage. For food lovers and cultural explorers alike, Zanzibar offers a sensory experience like no other.
To fully immerse yourself in the culinary wonders of this island paradise, let Go kite travel – the best travel agency in Dubai take care of your journey. With a variety of tailored Zanzibar Tour Packages, affordable and immersive Zanzibar Holiday Packages, and expertly crafted Tour Packages to Zanzibar, your dream island escape is just a booking away. Whether you're a foodie or just love discovering new tastes, Holiday Packages to Zanzibar with Go Kite Travel ensure you don’t miss a single bite of this flavorful destination.
Book your Zanzibar culinary escape now and get ready to taste the best of the Spice Island!
