Where to eat for your budget
| Place | Specialities | Indicative budget | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forodhani night market, Stone Town | Octopus and fish skewers, grilled lobster | Octopus skewer about $2; lobster $10 to $15 according to one guide | Many dishes are prepared ahead when it is crowded: pick busy stalls |
| Beach restaurants, Kendwa and Nungwi | Octopus curry (pweza wa nazi), grilled fish | $12 to $20 a meal, $8 to $12 for the curry | Pricier in hotels |
| The Rock, Pingwe | Seafood platter, octopus salad, grilled lobster | One guide calls prices "a bit high" | Book, and check the tide |
| Paje restaurants (e.g. Shirin) | Local cooking and fish | Prices judged reasonable by one guide | East coast, quiet |
| Safari Blue lunch | Beach barbecue of seafood | Included in the trip | A way to taste without picking a restaurant |
How to choose well
Ask for the catch of the day and the price per kilo or per piece before ordering, especially for lobster. Pick a stall or restaurant with fast turnover and avoid lukewarm dishes. If you have a sensitive stomach, eat food cooked to order rather than prepared ahead.
FAQ
Where is the cheapest place to eat?
At the Forodhani night market, a few dollars per skewer.
What dish should I try?
The coconut octopus curry (pweza wa nazi); see also typical dishes.
Do I need to book?
For The Rock and beach tables in high season, yes.
Going further
See the general list of restaurants in Zanzibar and the cooking class.
