The 16 best breakfast and brunch in Zanzibar Island

We stopped by for an early dinner and was pleasantly surprised by the extensive selection of food. The restaurant was quite busy. Our server was quick to present the available options and had a good command of English. We chose to take our meal to go rather than eat in. Once we made our choices, the food was packed up swiftly. The flavors were excellent, although I would have liked it to be a touch spicier. In summary, I highly recommend this place.

The food is good and clean. We came during peak hour and were served pretty fast. Only the portions of fish, especially the Jumbo prawn is not enough (only 1 shrimp - which I think is little for the price) but the rice portions are great The juices are good. I believe they should add ice in them to make them more fresh! The service is good only I would recommend having a bill printed out, cause counting with a calculator can lead to mistakes both from the clients & the management. Would come back! :) (they have free wifi)

This restaurant is not what it used to be. I have been coming here with groups for many years. Today I was here with 17 people. It took about two hours for most of the orders to arrive, but two of my guests had to wait even longer. The portions have become smaller. The waiters did their best and were friendly, but they cannot compensate for the wrong concept of the restaurant. Some dishes still taste good, but overall satisfaction is much lower than in the past. We received no compensation. It’s a pity — I am now looking for alternatives for my groups.

Nice! Although it was our first day and we haven’t tried many local dishes, we like what we have eaten. Food was clean and tasty and we do recommend here for customers searching to try something local. They have good amount of options in their menu including vegetarian. The atmosphere was nice, it is one of the nicest buildings around this area. We recommend you to not waste you time by waiting in the line to order. Waiters are all around and their menu includes prices. Rose was helping us during our visit and she was kind and attentive. Although the restaurant being busy at the period we have visited, the service was really fast.

Lukmaan is one of the best local restaurants. A wide selection of local specialties, fresh seafood, and freshly squeezed smoothies. The meat is grilled on-site, and they also serve shawarma. The waiters and staff are very friendly. They're very happy when you come often and regularly. And they know you by name. I was there almost every day for the two weeks I was there. I'll definitely be back. Many greetings to Zahura, Mohsen, and his brother. See you next time :)

We went there on our last day in Stone Town with our guide and the food was very good and quickly made. It like some cantina and you can see chefs cooking. They offer a lot of different mostly traditional food. The waiter was very helpfull and he show us every item that they have so we could decide easier. They have a nice terace and a lot of people, also a lot of turists and also some cats that are waiting for your food haha. Everything was good but for some reason more expenisve then we tought.

I liked this place🥰🥰 …the fact that it is in a very good spot👍….the aesthetics are good….the food is also good and tasty….good for Swahili cuisine…..the services were good…the waitress and waiters were so kind and providing top notch service…..the food was also so tasty…..I would highly recommend this restaurant if you are around Zanzibar ✨🤍………………

I made it just in time before a heavy rain poured over Stone Town for an hour. This Sunday also came with a scheduled power cut until 2 p.m., but Stone Town Café was prepared—its generator kicked in without a fuss. So I spent a quiet morning there, sipping coffee and reading, while the rain fell steadily outside.

I had a hibiscus tea (which was delicious) and a steak sandwich which had good flavor but the meat was difficult to bite into. The sticky date pudding was also delicious. If you don't know, there are cats everywhere in Zanzibar, and the staff does their best to shoo them away while you're eating.

The bread in Tanzania is cakey so not cafe’s thing. Avocado toad was nice but don’t expect slices more a spread . Coffee pot is amazing .locwtion central, shaded and wifi is great. Traveller hotspot

I went for breakfast and eggs were not what I asked for. The wait first for the food and then for the check was incredibly long. I won’t be going back.

its ok. just very bland iced coffee and also ok food! come for breakfast but if u want strong coffee, go somewhere else. my coffee is so bland...😅

Went there just to try the Octopus Curry and it was simply delicious. Also the service was good. Definitely recommend this place.

Great menu and delicious food. Noisy road at times, but not too disturbing. Recommended.

Incredibly unique and special paradise I love this place and would love to come back again. I highly recommend coming here however there’s some things to take into consideration before you come here to stay. We stayed in the downstairs room in the villa which is stunning. We had a magical time but there are somethings that need pointing out. Pros: 1) incredible view and surroundings 2) wonderful chill beds with options to hang in the pool or lounge in total luxurious style. 3) fantastic service 4) great yummy food that all rocked !! 5) stylish and cool 6) some great art (accept in our room which didn’t really sit with the other fantastic photos and paintings featured in both Upendo locations) 7) the restaurant is super cool and the staff are very very nice people. 8) everyone makes you feel very welcome Cons: 1) the bedroom has blackout curtains accept for the window which is right next to the bed where you have a spotlight shining in all night. 2) the room air condition is loud and hard to control, seems no matter what setting (I think due to power differences) it oscillates enough to wake my wife and I up a lot throughout the night. 3) there is no privacy, staff come in and out all the time from 7am. They’re amazing and are working hard to make it clean and remain that way, however you’re on holiday and would hope for a little downtime and to sleep in if you want. 4) there a small maasai market right beside the bedroom which can be noisy. 5) somethings need an update, the toilet is loose, the bathroom is open to the outside which is great accept if you have a shower and then need another one when you’re finished because of the humidity. The staff cleaned windows all the time accept the ones in our room (sadly), so looking out at the outstanding view wasn’t very nice. The curtains are hard to move and a tad granny like (down to taste of course) These are small yet important details and as I’m somebody who’s spent 30 years of being a DJ, living in hotels globally, I felt this place really stands out. In general, amazing and would recommend but truly hope that the team read this and consider it as constructive feedback to perhaps look at improving. It’s a wonderful place, but if a few small kinks were ironed out it would make it 5 star all the way.

We had a lovely and intimate stay at this beautiful hotel. The staff pays great attention to detail, and the butlers especially Theo and his team looked after us so well. Anything we needed, they were always ready to assist, and our food orders were consistently on time. Housekeeping was top-notch: the room was refreshed in the morning and again before bed, with a sweet treat and a kind message left for us each night. The food was delicious and full of flavor definitely a highlight! A few small things to note: some windows felt a bit too transparent, which made us concerned about privacy. In the evenings, it could get a little noisy as people passed by the beach. Also, the curtain rods could use some maintenance. Despite that, we had a truly memorable stay. The service and atmosphere more than made up for the minor issues. Highly recommended!

Pure magic, caring, excellent personal service. Highly recommended. Wonderful creative cuisine. Location right on the ocean's edge is quite stunning with its beautiful colours. A photographer's dream.

I first came to Upendo 12 years ago. It was then, and since, a vibrant and busy place with amazing views great music and a special place to enjoy a spectacular natural environment. Sadly a new manager has whacked up the prices from $5 to $40 for day visitors, with the result that it was deserted. At sundown we were the only people there with excellent waiters having nothing to do. I really wish Upendo well, but fear the results of the latest manager's ideas

I don’t know from where to start.. everything was amazing since we stepped our feet in the reception with the welcoming coconut water! Not to mention the hospitality of the whole staff beginning with the Manager of the hotel (Serena), along with her friendly amazing staff who were welcoming & smiling all the time; thank you Theo, Geo, and Claudia.. you’ve been amazing! The room & ameneties were great as well as the restaurant which we enjoyed alot especially the (sticky spicy chicken) which became our daily dish 😁 A special thanks to Francesca for her support in extending our check out. I would definately come again & stay here!

Once the most famous singer of the world Tina Turner sung the song „Paradise is here“. It‘s really here at Upendo Beach Hotel. If you want to choose an individual Hotel closest to the hot spot „ Restaurant the Rock“ with a very private atmosphere you have choosen the best Place to be.

I have enjoyed our stay at this flawless boutique hotel that blend luxury and secluded Its a wonderful choice for those who's seeking serenity. A stylish retreat with delicious variety of dishes that got our taste (our special dish Sticky Spicy Chicken🤤😋). A splendid view of beachfront and nearby The Rock restaurant. I was charm by desert and evening note Lala Salma 🥰 was looking forward to each evening 😊 A huge thanks to all Upendo Boho Social boutique with special recognition for Serena, Theo, Jeo, Claudia, and Franchisca, as their assistance was truly appreciated. 💯💯

Our favorite spot in Zanzibar for coffee, breakfast and meeting our potential NGO friends! Great place to come back to again and again.

Friendly staff, good prices, food is delicious! We enjoyed a beef burger 👌🏼

Food is good and prices are very honest. They also accept payments in US Dollars and with card. Staff is very kind and polite, way better than the local street food nearby.

Omar served us he was so friendly and welcoming ! Food came in good time and all of our food was fresh! I got the tuna poke bowl and it was the best meal I’ve had since coming and I have been here for 3 weeks! Definitely recommend this place so affordable too

A delicious meal with amazing service by Omar we will absolutely be back. And kittens!

Always happy waiters, good food and delicious coffees One of the few places for vegan/lactose intolerant people, love it!

Zenji is my favourite cafe on the waterfront in Stone town. Omar always has a big smile and is a great server. Enjoy the ambience of Forodhani while relaxing and eating some fresh healthy food (poke bowl and smoothie bowls are nice) or a delicious juice. Good vegetarian options.

The food is amazing, the server we had was so nice and smiling every single moment, but the sea food platter was way too small for the price. The king fish is tasty, but still small. All in all, for drinking and lunch near the sea, it's a good choice.

Great, find well visiting Zanzibar. Enjoyed the coffee and friendly staff and others. Recommend this place. 🇨🇦

The most honestly priced food and beverage on the entire island!!! Honestly. Thank you for keeping things real here.

Best masala tea anywhere. We tried like 5 different places and the masala tea here is *really* good. Seems like they use fresh spices, perfectly balanced and very flavorful. We liked it so much we came back for breakfast 5 times. Food also good!

Good coffee, tasty breakfast, good service, normal price, view on the way ocean, uncrowned place

Brilliant hospitality with a smile and friendly staff. Food is prepared fresh and always at the right temperature. This review is after eating here for a few times so highly recommended.

This is the only place in Stone Town open at 7am according to Maps but when we came all the way with our kids and were trying to sit down the first thing the man running the place yelled at us is to “get out” because they open at 8am. Rarely been treated this rudely, this man should not be running a cafe. Will never go back.

Great view, great food, lovely staff, only make sure you come here when you are only about to hungry, 'cause it takes EVERY TIME 60-90 minutes to delivery what you ordered. Drink is easy, that is only 30 minutes ;) still, great place!

We booked a table for the special Christmas Eve dinner for 2 and it was more than disappointing. At 8pm (time of our reservation), half of the menu was not available anymore so we couldn’t choose what we wanted to eat (even if we booked in advance especially for the menu). The beef tataki was overcooked, it’s supposed to be raw. Then we couldn’t chose the main course, we had the octopus and without noticing us, they didn’t put the potatoes and they hadn’t even switch with another ingredient. The staff was nice and did the best they could but the organization was so bad and they weren’t prepared for the Christmas dinner even if it was not full and booked in advance. And the price was way too expensive for what we had, especially with no choice. Probably better when no special event.

Very pleasant oceanfront restaurant, tasty food, very good service, super location

I am in love with this place. I book a room to spend Xmas holidays in Sarabi hotel and EVERY DAY I ate delicious food at Aya beach. The food was perfect and very tasty. Their cook is a woman. Their sweets are amazing too. I tasted creme caramele 💚💚. I am going to 🇹🇿 Zanzibar again in two weeks but this time I booked at Aya beach. Can't wait.

I only ordered juice fresh and it tasted like coloured water, they diluted it too much. Don’t recommend this place

Amazing fresh food, excellent service, wine delivered to the pool. Highly recommend this place.

Good restaurant. New menu every day. View is amazing. My advise is to visit this place and the area when it's low tide.

had a chocolate cake and the spiced coffee, coffee was really interesting - tasted of cloves and cardamom especially. staff was super helpful as well!

A hidden gem in Zanzibar! The Spice Route Museum brings history to life with immersive displays and scents that instantly transport you to the days of ancient trade. I learned so much while having so much fun absolutely worth a visit!

We had the Zanzicacoa Island and Zanzibar Sunshine smoothie bowls freshly prepared and very tasty, highly recommend

The Spice Route Museum is one of the most unique attractions I’ve visited. It connects Zanzibar to the world in such a vivid way. You’ll never look at spices the same again!

Sultan One of the highlights of my trip. It’s not just for tourists — locals should visit too, to see how rich our history is.

An absolute must-see for history lovers. The way they combine smell, sound, and visuals makes learning about the spice trade unforgettable.

If you need a quick break from strolling around Stone Town, this cafe is highly recommended to relax and sip the famous Zanzibar spiced coffee!

One of the cheapest gelato places. The ice cream was yummy. We went twice for the 3 scoop option (10k shillings). Wide variety of flavours. Take note it's cash only.

Great location along the main road making it easily accessible. Warm and welcoming team. Zero waiting time. Ice cream abit too sweet for my flavour palette. However I did enjoy the chocolate ice-cream in particular.

Popped in to have some Italian Ice Cream and was not disappointed, very good selection of Ice Cream & Smoothies. Nice and relaxed atmosphere with excellent service. We would highly recommend a visit when in Paje.

First 🌟 1 the service, for those who follow me know that service is everything, I've come here many times even late at night when they were closing just in time for a banana split, my go-to dessert they're always happy and serve me with a smile they even waited while I finish my ice cream even though I told them to go home, this is what service is all about and why I keep coming back here. Second 🌟 the ice cream has to be the best ice cream in town my go-to flavours are pistachio and Stracciatella with so many dark chocolate chunks one in every bite. Then a third to try something new I have it in a banana split the only one on the island.💯 Third 🌟 a beautiful garden like surrounding with trees and flowers everywhere, small little couches and chairs for 3 to 6 people Fourth 🌟 centrally located rate in the middle of the main drag in Paje close to Bentos and many other restaurants I walk here just for The Banana Splits 😋 fifth 🌟 all around the best tasting ice cream on the East Coast modestly priced with friendly service can't ask for anything more thumbs up from me👍👍

Delicious! Recommended for anyone who stops by this wonderful village and wants to treat themselves to ice cream and mango cake.

Great place to have smoothie. My recommendation is cheesecake with passion fruit. Banana split is also great

If you are not on your way to The Rock Restaurant and you want to eat delicious coconut tiramisu, I recommend visiting this place. Not only tiramisu is worth tasting but also cheesecake. Ice cream and chocolate cake are also on offer but I didn't like them so much. Of course, coffee goes with the cake and it can even be made with a cool artistic pattern ;) I recommend it

We came here as a family for our son's 11th birthday, and we had a wonderful time! A little off season, so we had the restaurant almost to ourselves, but it was still super nice! We ordered the sizzling hot fish, grilled chicken and the seafood boil. Some of the best food we had during our two weeks in Zanzibar! A birthday special desert with birthday song for our son too, and he was very happy! Can highly recommend stopping for a meal and good atmosphere at The Restaurant!

Really good restaurant, would recommend it. The staff are very attentive, friendly and helpful. For Zanzibar this restaurant offers quick service and really good quality food👌🏻The desserts are also tasty much better than most places in Zanzibar🍰

I have been traveling around Africa for 2 weeks! I have visited more than 20 restaurants! And the best one was Bali Resort! The real diamond of this place was the waitress Yasinta, I am delighted with her! As well as with Sea Food Plato 🥹

We loved this restaurant so much that we returned multiple times during our stay. The food is absolutely incredible, a true highlight of the island's culinary scene. Beyond the amazing dishes, the staff made us feel genuinely welcome and cared for on every visit. It's a perfect combination of fantastic food and warm, wonderful service.

We had a really good meal here. We started with the lobster soup (great spices!!!), then had the chicken and fish curries, and ended the dinner with the chocolate brownie. We were very happy with it all and the service was very friendly and helpful. We’ll be back for more and are taking a taxi from a hotel 5 minutes away. They took credit cards (visa) and the prices were really fair also.

Superb service! Excellent service, very friendly and welcoming and food was amazing and tasty. Great location in Bwejuu beach. The decor and atmosphere luxurious and relaxed. They are building a luxury hotel with Villas behind the cafe. Will mostly be back. It's a must place to visit if visiting Zanzibar.

We loved this place. We are staying in a hotel nearby and had dinner here today. It’s better and cheaper than our hotel. We had the calamari, fish, and tuna tartar. The environment is chilled and relaxing. They serve hookah in separated area from the restaurant. Decoration is nice and comfortable. We found this place very clean. They accept credit cards.

The food was decent, but nothing particularly memorable. A couple of items were missing from the menu (fresh spring rolls), which was a bit disappointing. The samosas were overly hard, but the pho was absolutely delicious. The burger was average. chilled coconut water was refreshing and fantastic. The lady serving us was very pleasant and attentive, which added a nice touch to the experience. Portions were generous, prices were low, but the ingredients used felt quite basic overall.

Great 100% vegetarian restaurant. We had a “Make your own” salad and the marahage with chapati - all of which were delicious. And we got with fresh chili when we asked ! The lady was super nice !

Best food we had here in Zanzibar. Everything was so delicious. The juices were fresh and so was the food. The waiters were also very friendly. Water is even free. Good music. Just a very great place to eat. Highly recommend this place.

The appearance of the samosas are deceiving. They’re actually the tastiest samosa’s I’ve ever had and I’ve eaten a lot of samosas! I would eat them without the sauce. It comes with 3, I just ate one before taking this photo. The carrot ginger soup was really good too. But let’s face it, I’m coming back today just for the samosas 😋 I just ate there again and brought my wife with me this time. I ordered a double order of samosas and it hit the spot, as well as another carrot ginger soup and the maharage. The maharage was also delicious! I think it would have been even better if I ordered it with rice instead of chips. I’m hoping I have time to come back again and try more things on the menu.

Absolutely magnificent! The best food we had in Zanzibar! Various choices and mouth watering flavors. We absolutely recommend this place! We kept on coming again and again

We had the pho and a burger. Both were good and a decent portion size. The food and menu felt healthy and was reasonably priced.

I ate there several times and was always satisfied. It's fresh, tasty and healthy. The portions are not too big but enough for one person.

Perfect breakfast spot with amazing coffee! We’re having such a lovely morning here with friends — enjoying a delicious breakfast and truly amazing coffee. The atmosphere is calm, beautiful, and full of good energy. The surroundings are just stunning, and the café has such a peaceful vibe. Friendly staff, great food, and top-quality coffee — everything you need for a perfect start to the day. Highly recommend! 🌿☕🍽️💛 Coffe in Paje Zanzibar

I had breakfast at this café in Zanzibar and it was absolutely delightful. The avocado was perfectly ripe and creamy, served on fresh, crisp toast that was simple yet full of flavor. The coffee was rich and aromatic, the perfect way to start the day. Everything was fresh, beautifully prepared, and served in a relaxed atmosphere. A wonderful spot for a delicious and satisfying breakfast – highly recommended!

Best brunch in Zanzibar! Had brunch at V16 Café in Paje and it was honestly one of the best meals I’ve had on the island. The avocado toast with egg was fresh, flavorful, and perfectly done — simple but packed with quality. And the homemaid chapati was perfect The setting is gorgeous, peaceful and lush — a perfect little hideaway. And the team working there is just amazing: super friendly, warm, and genuinely caring.

had such a lovely morning at Cappuccino Café in Paje. The breakfast was absolutely delicious — fresh, tasty, and beautifully served. And the coffee… wow. One of the best cups I’ve had in Zanzibar — rich, smooth, and just perfect. The atmosphere is calm and beautiful, and the staff are so kind and welcoming. It’s the perfect place to start your day. I’ll definitely be coming back! ☕🍽️🌞🌿

The coffee is top-notch – smooth, rich, and clearly made with care. Their brunch menu is equally impressive, offering a range of healthy, flavorful dishes that cater to both local and international tastes. Whether you're in the mood for smoothie bowls, fresh pastries, or a hearty brunch plate, there's something for everyone. The vibe is laid-back and creative, making it a great spot to chill, work, or meet up with friends.

We really enjoy coming to Asili for breakfast and coffee especially at their newest location in Paje. It honestly offers a different experience and approach to local food. Siganje is full of passion and knowledge for his menu filled with home methods and Tanzanian ingredients I'd never heard of! And he is open to share it with you in a warm and friendly manner that is so rare to find. We truly look forward to what they are continuing to create, it's very exciting to have such a restaurant experience in Zanzibar

Me and my wife eat Breakfast it was very good at this incredible coffe place in Paje Zanzibar

Very nice garden and atmosphere, very kind service, the fish is very delicious and well seasoned however the quantity was a bit low we took a fish dish per person but they gave one plate of fish for both of us, still it is good. The rice and veggies are also good but the rice has a little stone in it, not a biggie. Overall i recommend to try

Great place with amazing vibes. Breakfest was great with a lot of local fruits.

Pleasent sitting in a garden of trees excellent and indulgence food.a large portion and an excellent price for such a portion happy to recommend Irisik

I really enjoyed my meal at Mawingu. The place feels more like home from the way you are welcomed and the extra attention they gave me. The atmosphere made it so easy to work as it was quite and filled with so much green..oh and the dogs are so friendly and adorable. If your looking for some peace and a little bit of serenity, drop in. PS: They also provide yoga if your interested yoga 🧘🏿‍♂️🧘🏿‍♂️🧘🏿‍♂️🧘🏿‍♂️

Breakfast was delicious with a big plate of wonderful fruits and after that a big plate with vegetable omlet and chapati. .Coffee and Tea The atmosphere is very peaceful, in the middle of the bush. .We are going to come again to eat Dinner and will recommend it to everyone.

I booked a place for a fish dinner as an appetizers I received a plate of a tropical fruits What more do you need?

The food was delicious and the atmosphere amazing, I ate in the middle of the garden below a big mango tree. Surrounded by nature, full of peace. Staff very kind :) highly recommended

Beautiful spot very welcoming staff Hassan And his team are so kind. Been going here for the past 2 weeks breakfast and lunch. Swahili food full of natural flavours. Try the chicken soup in the morning!!!

The food was unimpressive and the calamari uncut. Way too much money For a restaraunt. Unimpressed. 23000 shillings for this? Also the chickens jumped into the dinner half way through. A known issue. Stay away from this cafe. Not worth a visit. The furniture is so uncomfortable. Food is just food. Nothing special. Not worth dining out.

Food was delicious. This place is super nice, and the lady really friendly and helpful. You'll need to bring time :) Quantity are huge!

You gotta love Tupomoja Cafe. I can highly and always recommend it for breakfast. Get the salty pancake and your day will be solved. It's also one of the rare places I know that's ran and organized by locals and it's just fantastic and right to support them. On top of all you only get highest quality!

Love Tupomoja. Fresh food. Friendly staff. Nice vibes.

I had high expectations for brunch based off its fb page photos. The brunch menu was just okay and the food wasn't bad. A lot better than some other places on the island.

Love this place! Outdoor seating and nicely shaded with fans. They even have a little play area for kids. Must try their Salty Pancake, it's unique and delicious.