Where To Eat In Unguja Right Now: 5 Trending Zanzibar Restaurants You Need To Try

Organzibar - New kid with serious buzz

Organzibar is one of Unguja’s newest openings, and it is already punching above its weight with a 4.8 rating off early reviews. Tucked in a walkable area popular with younger locals and digital nomads, it feels like a modern island bistro rather than a tourist trap.

Why it is trending:

• New business with a fast-rising growth score, so early visitors feel like they have discovered a secret.
• Stylish but relaxed interior that blends Swahili details with contemporary café culture.
• Word-of-mouth among expats and remote workers looking for somewhere that works for both laptops and late dinners.

What to expect:

• Fusion plates that lean on Zanzibar spices without going heavy on heat.
• Fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian mains that feel lighter than the typical resort buffet.
• Good coffee and mocktails, making it a flexible stop from brunch to pre-dinner drinks.

Pro tip: Go early evening for golden-hour light and a quieter vibe, then stay as the music and conversation pick up.

Pantbella zanzibar - Under the radar and highly rated

Pantbella zanzibar is another newcomer, quietly sitting on a 4.9 rating. It has not exploded with recent reviews yet, which means you can still enjoy it before it gets slammed with reservations.

Why it is trending:

• New opening with near-perfect scores from early diners.
• Feels like a neighborhood secret rather than a big-name destination.
• Attracting food-focused travelers who specifically seek out less commercial spots.

What to expect:

• Intimate dining room with personal service and staff who remember returning guests.
• Menu that balances Swahili flavors with continental comfort food, so everyone at the table finds something.
• Nicely plated dishes without fine-dining stiffness.

Pro tip: If you care about photos, ask for a table near a window or on any small terrace they may have. The plating and natural light make for great shots.

Archipelago Waterfront Cafe Zanzibar - Casual with a classic view

Archipelago Waterfront Cafe Zanzibar is a long-time favorite that still feels fresh. With more than 600 reviews and a solid 4.4 rating, it is one of the go-to spots for relaxed waterfront dining on Unguja.

Why it is trending:

• Consistent recent reviews show it is not just a legacy pick but still actively loved.
• Prime location right by the water, ideal for sunset sessions.
• Reliable choice when you want a local-feeling place that can handle groups.

What to expect:

• Breezy café vibe where you can linger over a late breakfast, lunch, or sundowners.
• Seafood skewers, grilled fish, and simple Swahili-inspired plates.
• Mix of locals, long-stay travelers, and tour groups, so it feels lively without being chaotic.

Pro tip: Time your visit for just before sunset and aim for an outdoor table. Order something from the grill and a fresh juice or cold beer and let the evening unfold.

al Casbah - Reliable favorite with a loyal following

With more than a thousand reviews and a 4.8 rating, al Casbah is one of Unguja’s most consistently praised restaurants. It blends a warm, slightly old-school atmosphere with polished service.

Why it is trending:

• Steady stream of new reviews keeps it high on recommendation lists.
• Trusted by both tour guides and repeat visitors, which keeps the dining room busy.
• Known for delivering the same quality experience night after night.

What to expect:

• Rich, flavorful dishes that nod to Middle Eastern and North African kitchens alongside local ingredients.
• Generous portions, great for sharing plates and trying a bit of everything.
• Comfortable indoor seating that works in all weather, plus a setting that feels celebratory without being formal.

Pro tip: Reserve if you are visiting in peak season or on weekends. Ask staff for their recommended combination of starters to get the best variety of flavors.

The Rock Restaurant Zanzibar - Iconic dining on the sea

The Rock Restaurant Zanzibar is the island’s most photographed restaurant, perched on a rock in the Indian Ocean. With thousands of reviews and global fame, it is less a hidden gem and more a once-in-a-trip experience.

Why it is trending:

• Viral photos and videos keep it on social media feeds worldwide.
• Recent reviews show it remains a bucket list stop for first-time visitors to Unguja.
• The tide-dependent access by foot or boat adds a sense of adventure.

What to expect:

• Set menus or focused à la carte featuring seafood and Italian-influenced dishes.
• Unmatched 360-degree ocean views, especially at mid to high tide.
• A crowd of honeymooners, special-occasion diners, and content creators.

Pro tip: Book well in advance and check tide times when choosing your reservation. For softer light and cooler temperatures, target late lunch or early dinner.

How to choose where to eat in Unguja

• For new and buzzworthy: Start with Organzibar or Pantbella zanzibar if you like being ahead of the curve.
• For relaxed waterfront vibes: Archipelago Waterfront Cafe Zanzibar is your flexible all-day option.
• For guaranteed crowd-pleaser: al Casbah works for mixed groups and special dinners.
• For the iconic shot: The Rock Restaurant Zanzibar is the one you book early.

Wherever you end up, MapsBuddy helps you track what is trending in real time so you can find the spots locals are whispering about before everyone else catches on.