Top 10 Street Foods to try in Zanzibar and a Bonus Recipe to Make at Home!
Hey there, food lovers! Ready for a tasty adventure in Zanzibar? This place is not just about beautiful beaches; it’s a paradise for street food too. Zanzibar’s food is a cool mix of African, Arab, Indian, and European tastes. It’s like a food party from all over the world! We’re going to show you the best street food in Zanzibar. From the famous Zanzibar Pizza to the spicy and yummy Urojo Soup, we’ve got all the top picks for you. Whether you’re a big-time foodie or just love trying new things, Zanzibar street food will make your taste buds dance. So, let’s jump into the top 10 street foods to try in Zanzibar!
A foodie’s guide to the best street eats in Zanzibar
Nairobi’s food scene is a vibrant symphony of flavors, colors, and aromas, and we’ve got some top picks for you:
1. Zanzibar Pizza
Forget what you know about pizza. This local twist involves a thin dough filled with anything from minced meat to bananas and chocolate, all fried to crispy perfection.
Where to find Zanzibar Pizza: This iconic dish is a staple at the Forodhani Gardens Night Market in Stone Town.
Price: 2,000 – 5,000 TZS (~$0.86 – $2.15)
2.Urojo Soup (Zanzibar Mix)
A tangy, spicy soup that’s a symphony of flavors with fried bhajis, potatoes, and sometimes meat skewers, all soaked in a coconut broth.
Where to find Urojo Soup: Widely available in local eateries and at Zanzibar street food markets.
Price: 1,500 – 3,000 TZS (~$0.65 – $1.30)
Experience the essence of Zanzibar cuisine with a bowl of traditional Urojo Soup, surrounded by its rich ingredients.
3. Mishkaki
Think of it as Zanzibar’s take on kebabs. Marinated meat or seafood, grilled to tender perfection over open flames. The result? Tender, flavorful meats that’ll have you coming back for more.
Where to find Mishkaki: Easily found at Forodhani Zanzibar food market and other street vendors.
Price: 500 – 2,000 TZS per skewer (~$0.22 – $0.86)
Grilled Goodness: Mishkaki Skewers Infused with East African Flavor
4. Mandazi & Vitumbua
Mandazi are a sweet treat for our dessert lovers. These coconut-infused doughnuts, spiced with cardamom and fried, are a delight with Zanzibari chai. Vitumbua are mini coconut donut-like rice pancakes, sweetened with sugar and spiced with cardamom.
Where to find them: Available in most Zanzibar local food shops, especially during breakfast.
Price: 100 – 500 TZS (~$0.04 – $0.22)
Start your day the local way with Mandazi, Vitumbua, and fresh fruits.
5. Octopus
For the daring foodies, these grilled, spiced octopus skewers showcase Zanzibar’s rich seafood culture. Also try octopus curry or octopus & cassava.
Where to find Octopus: Best enjoyed at the Forodhani Zanzibar food market.
Price: 3,000 – 6,000 TZS (~$1.30 – $2.60)
Explore the ocean’s bounty with a variety of seafood, including fresh octopus, at Zanzibar’s Forodhani Night Market.
6. Sugarcane Juice
- As you wander the streets, you’ll find vendors crushing sugarcane, often with a hint of ginger and lime, to produce a refreshing drink. It’s sweet, revitalizing, and the perfect antidote to Zanzibar’s warm days.
Where to find Sugarcane Juice: Available from street vendors across Zanzibar.
Price: 500 – 2,000 TZS (~$0.22 – $0.86)
Experience the freshness: Sugarcane juice being made on-site at Forodhani Night Market
7.Chips mayai
A popular street food in Zanzibar, combining French fries with eggs into a tasty omelet-like dish. Who knew a French fry omelette could taste so good?
Where to find Chips Mayai: This dish is a common find at local eateries and Zanzibar street food markets.
Price: 2,000 – 4,000 TZS (~$0.86 – $1.72)
Indulge in the flavors of East Africa with Chips Mayai, a delightful fusion of French fries and eggs.
8. Zanzibar Biryani & Pilau
Aromatic, spiced rice dishes often cooked with meat or vegetables, a staple in Zanzibar traditional food.
Where to find Biryani & Pilau: Widely available in restaurants and food stalls throughout Zanzibar.
Price: 5,000 – 10,000 TZS (~$2.15 – $4.30)
Fragrant Feast: Swahili Biryani, a Taste of East Africa
9. Shawarma
A beloved Middle Eastern dish that has found a special place in the hearts and streets of Zanzibar. These delicious wraps are filled with marinated grilled meats and tangy sauces. While traditional shawarmas are meat-based, many vendors offer vegetarian versions filled with grilled veggies, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), or even falafel. Just ask, and you shall receive!
Where to find Shawarma: Available at many Zanzibar street food stalls, especially in Stone Town.
Price: 3,000 – 7,000 TZS (~$1.30 – $3.00)
From preparation to perfection: Experience the taste of freshly made shawarma at Zanzibar’s vibrant night market.
10. Kachori
These are spicy, deep-fried balls made from either lentils or potatoes, seasoned with a blend of spices. Kachori in Zanzibar often come served with a tangy tamarind sauce or a spicy green chutney.
Where to find Kachori: A popular snack at Forodhani Gardens night market and other street vendors.
Price: 500 – 1,000 TZS (~$0.22 – $0.43)
@dinewithdina KACHORI! Zanzibari Deep Fried Lemony Chilli Mash Potato Balls 🤤🤤 #dinewithdina #fyp #zanzibartiktok #swahilifood #eastafricanfood #potatorecipe #swahilitiktok #potatotiktok #foodtiktok #foodtok #dinewithme
11. Zanzibar “Chocolate” Candy
This sweet nougat-like sesame and honey bar, resembling Middle Eastern baklava, is a unique Zanzibar local food.
Where to find Zanzibar Chocolate Candy: Available at local markets and specialty sweet shops.
Price: 1,000 – 2,000 TZS (~$0.43 – $0.86)
Experience the unexpected with Zanzibar’s honey and sesame seed nougat, mischievously named ‘Zanzibar Chocolate’
Zanzibar Recipes for the Home Chef
Inspired to bring Zanzibar into your kitchen? Try making Biryani or Vitumbua at home for a taste of the island.
@dinewithdina My grandma Bibi’s Zanzibari Biriyani! Fullrecipe is on youtube.com/dinewithdina 💃🏽💃🏽 #dinewithdina #biriyani #lambbiryani #swahilifood #middleeasterntiktok #foodtiktok #arabfood #omantiktok #foodtok
♬ original sound - Dina Macki
@sophieskitchen_ How to make soft vitumbuas #fyp #fypシ #recipesoftiktok #recipe #vitumba #swahilifood #cookingtiktok #mombasatiktokers #kenya #zanzibar #foodie
♬ original sound - Neelima Khanom
EXPLORING THE ZANZIBAR STREET FOOD MARKET
For a true taste of Swahili food in Zanzibar, don’t miss the vibrant Forodhani Garden Night Market in Stone Town. It’s a hub for sampling the best food in Zanzibar, offering everything from Zanzibar Pizza to Urojo Soup. Post sunset is a great time to visit and when the actions starts.
FAQs
Here are some quick answers to questions about Zanzibar street food:
Are street foods in Zanzibar safe to eat?
Absolutely! Street food in Zanzibar is generally safe and delicious. However, as with any destination, it’s wise to eat at busy stalls where food turnover is high, ensuring freshness.
Can I find vegetarian options among Zanzibar street foods?
Yes, many street food vendors offer vegetarian options. Dishes like vegetarian shawarma, falafel, and various veggie skewers are commonly available.
What should I drink to stay hydrated in Zanzibar's climate?
Sugarcane juice, fresh coconut water, and bottled water are great for staying hydrated. Avoid tap water and ensure bottled water is sealed.
Is it expensive to eat street food in Zanzibar?
Not at all! One of the joys of Zanzibar street food is its affordability. You can enjoy a variety of dishes without spending much.
Are there any food hygiene practices I should follow?
Always wash your hands before eating. It’s also a good idea to carry hand sanitizer. Watch how the food is prepared and choose stalls that maintain cleanliness.
How spicy is Zanzibar street food?
Zanzibari cuisine can be spicy, but many vendors will adjust the spice level to your preference. Don’t hesitate to ask for less spicy options if you’re sensitive to heat.
What's the best time to enjoy street food in Zanzibar?
Evening is a great time, as the weather cools down and the streets come alive with various food stalls. However, you’ll find delicious options throughout the day.
Can I find street food everywhere in Zanzibar?
Street food is most abundant in Stone Town and other busy areas. However, you’ll find vendors in most parts of the island, especially near popular beaches and tourist spots.
Are there any street foods unique to Zanzibar?
Zanzibar Pizza and Urojo Soup are quite unique to the island and are a must-try for any foodie visiting Zanzibar.
Any tips for first-time visitors trying street food in Zanzibar?
Start with popular items like Zanzibar Pizza or Mishkaki to ease into the local cuisine. Also, don’t be afraid to ask locals for their recommendations – they know the best spots!
Got more questions about Zanzibar street foods or food prices in Zanzibar??
Reach out in the comments or DM us on Instagram! IG is the fastest way to connect with us for any urgent questions.
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Safe travels and happy eating, travel tribe! 😋🌍🍽️.
