What’s the Best Seafood in Zanzibar?

Few destinations in the world captivate the senses quite like Zanzibar. Known as the Spice Island, this Indian Ocean paradise off the coast of Tanzania is where the aroma of cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom mingles with the salty sea breeze. But beyond its idyllic beaches, coral reefs, and historic Stone Town, Zanzibar offers a culinary journey that celebrates the sea itself. For seafood lovers, this island is heaven on earth. The waters surrounding Zanzibar teem with marine life — snapper, tuna, octopus, lobster, prawns, calamari, and countless others — and the island’s chefs have mastered the art of turning these fresh catches into dishes that reflect both Swahili tradition and international flair.

Seafood in Zanzibar is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. From open-air beach grills to fine dining restaurants overlooking turquoise waters, every meal tells a story of the island’s history, culture, and love for the ocean. Let’s dive into the best seafood experiences that make Zanzibar a true culinary gem of East Africa.

The Heart of Zanzibar’s Seafood Culture

Zanzibar’s cuisine is a delicious fusion of influences from Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe. Centuries of trade and cultural exchange have shaped its identity as a crossroads of flavor. The Swahili people have always lived close to the sea, and their traditional dishes reflect both simplicity and sophistication — fresh ingredients enhanced by the island’s famous spices.

Fishing remains a central part of daily life in Zanzibar. At sunrise, fishermen head out in wooden dhows, casting nets across the warm Indian Ocean waters. By afternoon, the catch is brought ashore to local markets and restaurants, ensuring that what ends up on your plate is as fresh as possible.

In Stone Town and coastal villages like Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje, seafood is woven into every meal. Locals prefer it grilled over charcoal, simmered in coconut milk, or spiced with turmeric and lime. Whether you enjoy a luxurious lobster feast or a simple octopus curry at a beach shack, the flavor of Zanzibar’s seafood never disappoints.

Must-Try Seafood Dishes in Zanzibar

Octopus Curry (Pweza wa Nazi)

Perhaps the most iconic seafood dish of Zanzibar, octopus curry — locally known as pweza wa nazi — is a true reflection of the island’s coastal heritage. Tender pieces of octopus are simmered in creamy coconut milk and flavored with turmeric, garlic, onions, ginger, and a touch of chili. The result is a dish that’s rich, aromatic, and deeply comforting.

Served with rice or chapati, octopus curry is available everywhere from local eateries in Stone Town to beachside restaurants in Matemwe. It’s the kind of dish that embodies Zanzibar’s soul — simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.

Grilled Lobster

When it comes to indulgence, nothing beats freshly grilled lobster by the sea. Zanzibar’s lobster is known for its sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture. Most beach resorts and seafood grills offer it freshly caught and grilled to perfection, brushed with garlic butter and lime juice.

In Nungwi or Kendwa, you can dine barefoot on the sand while enjoying grilled lobster accompanied by coconut rice and spicy mango salsa. The sound of waves and the scent of charred shell create a sensory experience you’ll remember long after your trip.

Zanzibar Seafood Platter

For those who can’t decide on just one dish, the seafood platter is the ultimate choice. Typically, it includes a mix of lobster, prawns, calamari, crab, and fish, all grilled or fried and served with sauces infused with lemon, garlic, and local spices.

The platter captures the diversity of Zanzibar’s marine bounty in one meal. Many restaurants, such as The Rock Restaurant and Emerson on Hurumzi, serve beautifully presented seafood platters that not only satisfy the palate but also celebrate the artistry of Swahili cooking.

Grilled Red Snapper

Red snapper is one of the most common fish in Zanzibar’s waters, and it’s often the star of beach barbecues. The fish is marinated in lime, ginger, and local spices, then grilled whole over open flames until the skin crisps and the meat becomes tender and smoky.

You’ll often find fishermen cooking red snapper right on the beach, serving it with kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad) and coconut pilau rice. It’s an unpretentious, delicious meal that captures the essence of island living.

Coconut Crab Curry

Another unforgettable delicacy is coconut crab curry, a dish made with large crabs cooked in a thick, spicy coconut sauce. The flavors balance sweetness, heat, and creaminess, showcasing the influence of both Indian and Swahili cuisines.

Eating crab curry is a messy but delightful affair — it’s meant to be enjoyed slowly, with hands, laughter, and perhaps a cold Kilimanjaro beer to cool down the spice.

Prawns in Tamarind Sauce

Zanzibar’s tamarind sauce adds a tangy twist to many seafood dishes, but it pairs especially well with prawns. The tamarind’s natural acidity complements the sweetness of the prawns, creating a balance of flavors that dance on the palate. This dish is usually served with fragrant coconut rice and steamed greens, offering both freshness and comfort.

Calamari and Squid Skewers

Calamari is another island favorite. Often served grilled on skewers, the squid is marinated in lemon, olive oil, and chili before being cooked over charcoal. It’s light, smoky, and perfectly tender. You’ll find it as a snack in beach bars or as part of larger seafood platters.

Zanzibari Fish Biriyani

A nod to the island’s Indian heritage, Zanzibari fish biriyani is a masterpiece of layered rice, spiced fish, and aromatic herbs. The fish is marinated in a blend of turmeric, cumin, and cardamom, then cooked with saffron-scented rice and caramelized onions. This dish showcases the complexity and elegance of Zanzibar’s cuisine — every bite tells a story of centuries of trade and cultural exchange.

Best Places to Enjoy Seafood in Zanzibar

Forodhani Gardens Night Market – Stone Town

No visit to Zanzibar is complete without an evening at Forodhani Gardens. This open-air night market in Stone Town comes alive as the sun sets, offering an irresistible array of seafood. Grilled fish, octopus skewers, lobster tails, crab claws, and calamari are cooked fresh before your eyes.

The atmosphere is electric — locals and tourists mingle, vendors call out with friendly smiles, and the scent of the sea fills the air. It’s an experience that captures the true spirit of Zanzibar. Forodhani Gardens is not fine dining, but it’s one of the most authentic and delicious seafood experiences you’ll ever have.

The Rock Restaurant – Pingwe Beach

Perched dramatically on a coral outcrop off Pingwe Beach, The Rock is one of the most photographed restaurants in the world. Accessible by foot during low tide and by boat during high tide, it offers breathtaking ocean views and exquisite seafood dishes.

Here, you can savor lobster pasta, grilled prawns, and calamari while waves lap gently below your feet. The experience feels almost surreal — dining on a rock in the middle of the sea, surrounded by endless turquoise water.

Emerson Spice and Emerson on Hurumzi – Stone Town

These iconic Stone Town restaurants blend Swahili elegance with fine dining. Their seafood menus feature dishes like octopus coconut curry, grilled snapper fillet, and crab samosas, all served on rooftop terraces with panoramic views. The attention to detail in both presentation and flavor makes these venues perfect for a romantic evening.

Nungwi and Kendwa Beach Restaurants

In northern Zanzibar, the beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa host numerous seaside restaurants serving freshly caught seafood. As you dine, you’ll see fishing boats anchored offshore and listen to the gentle hum of the ocean. The seafood here is as fresh as it gets — caught that morning and grilled by afternoon.

Local Village Taverns

For those seeking an authentic experience, small taverns in fishing villages like Matemwe or Jambiani offer home-cooked seafood meals prepared by local families. These meals may not come with fine linens or candlelight, but they overflow with authenticity, warmth, and flavor.

Pairing Seafood with Zanzibar’s Spices

What truly sets Zanzibar’s seafood apart is the use of spices. The island’s nickname, “The Spice Island,” comes from its centuries-old trade in cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cardamom. These spices elevate every seafood dish, infusing it with warmth and depth.

A simple grilled fish becomes extraordinary when brushed with a blend of cloves and chili. Coconut curries come alive with the sweetness of cinnamon and the aroma of cardamom. Even marinades often feature crushed garlic, turmeric, and fresh lime — creating flavors that linger long after the meal is over.

A Taste of Paradise Awaits

Zanzibar’s seafood is a reflection of its identity — vibrant, diverse, and deeply rooted in nature. Every bite tells a story of the ocean’s generosity and the islanders’ creativity. Whether you’re enjoying a lavish lobster dinner at The Rock or savoring grilled fish at a roadside market, the experience captures the essence of this tropical paradise.

If you’re a traveler who loves both culture and cuisine, Zanzibar’s seafood journey is one of the most rewarding in East Africa. The combination of fresh ocean catches, aromatic spices, and stunning settings creates an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Discover Zanzibar’s Flavors with Muhiga Safaris

To truly savor Zanzibar’s seafood and experience the island in all its splendor, plan your journey with Muhiga Safaris. Specializing in tailor-made East African experiences, Muhiga Safaris offers personalized itineraries that blend cultural exploration, relaxation, and authentic dining. From walking through spice plantations and exploring Stone Town’s history to enjoying sunset seafood dinners on the beach, every detail is curated for comfort and discovery.

With Muhiga Safaris, your trip becomes more than a vacation — it becomes a journey through the heart of Zanzibar’s flavors, traditions, and breathtaking beauty. Let the rhythm of the ocean, the aroma of spices, and the taste of the sea stay with you long after your visit.