The dishes to try
| Dish | What it is | Where / when |
|---|---|---|
| Urojo ("Zanzibar mix") | Spiced broth (turmeric, mango or tamarind depending on the source) with fritters, potatoes, boiled egg and meat or seafood | Stone Town stalls, late afternoon and evening |
| Zanzibar pizza | Stuffed dough cooked like a crêpe, cut into squares; a chicken-mango version is cited | Forodhani, in the evening |
| Mishkaki | Grilled skewers of marinated meat | In the alleyways, in the afternoon |
| Pilau / biryani | Spiced rice cooked in one pot with meat | Restaurants and homes |
| Pweza wa nazi | Octopus curry in coconut milk | Beach restaurants, $8 to $12 according to one guide |
| Mandazi and coconut rice | Sweet doughnuts; the most common side dish | Everywhere |
Where to taste them
The easiest: the Forodhani night market, then a food-focused visit of Stone Town with a guide who picks the stalls. Many dishes are prepared ahead when it is crowded: choose busy stalls and hot dishes. To learn to cook them, see the cooking class.
FAQ
Is Zanzibar pizza a real pizza?
No: it is stuffed dough cooked on a griddle, very close to a savoury crêpe.
What should I eat first?
Urojo if you like strong flavours, pilau for something milder.
Is it safe?
Choose food cooked to order and busy stalls; see scams and safety.
Going further
For seafood, read where to eat seafood in Zanzibar.
