The Ultimate List of the Best Restaurants in Nungwi for Food Lovers

Nungwi, on the north end of Zanzibar, is known to be not only home to the cleanest beaches and clear water, but also to its vibrant food culture. As one of the seaside grills that cook from seaside grills serving fresh lobster to small cafes that prepare traditional Zanzibari dishes, Nungwi is the heaven of all food lovers. It is a place that offers a wide variety of dishes to satisfy every palate whether you are in the mood to have Swahili cuisine, spicy seafood or even international cuisine. 

This guide will look at the 13 best restaurants in Nungwi where you can have a memorable meal with breathtaking ocean views or under palm-thatched roofs. These eating establishments are not simply about food, they are all about true island experiences with flavor, culture and hospitality. Prepare to find out the top food joints in Nungwi, the one of the most popular beach areas in Zanzibar.

Nungwi offers diverse dining, from fresh local seafood spots to international cuisine restaurants

Dine with a view: Top 13 Nungwi restaurants for Ocean-to-Table cuisine

Any visitor to this tropical paradise cannot escape the local dining culture. So here we have 13 of the best restaurants in Nungwi where you are guaranteed memorable dining experiences that reflect the very essence of Zanzibar.

Fish Market Local Restaurant

FFish Market Local Restaurant is a local favorite. Some of the best places to eat in Zanzibar can be found here for those who want their seafood served fresh and not done in some fancy exotic style. Situated beside the busy beach in this fishing village, it is completely Zanzibari – they grill today’s catch right before your eyes. Here you will find snapper, octopus, calamari and lobster spiced in the local style — often served with coconut rice or chapati in coconut rice or chapati.

It may look very simple and rustic but its beauty is in the local culture and coastal tradition. Most visitors claim it is one of the best restaurants in Nungwi to eat seafood as the locals do - fresh, flavorful, and without the pretense. Whether you visit for lunch after a walk on the beach or dinner under the stars, Fish Market Local Restaurant will give you a lasting foodie experience in Zanzibar.

• Located by the beach at the Nungwi Fish Market, Zanzibar – right where the fishermen bring in their daily catch.

Fish Market offers fresh seafood, unique juices, friendly staff, and a beachfront location with sunset views, and is near the fish market

Passion & Thyme

Passion & Thyme is a beautiful restaurant located in Nungwi with an intimate feel, gorgeous presentation of dishes, and tasty, fresh food. While Nungwi is known for its beachside barbecue and casual seafood shack, Passion & Thyme provides a unique experience with local Zanzibari ingredients and offering a relaxed yet refined dining atmosphere

The restaurant is famed for its gourmet salads, seafood pastas, and homemade desserts - it speaks to travelers wanting something more than standard beach cuisine. The restaurant makes for a great stop for a candlelit dinner or casual lunch, and the service is warm, the menu is creative, and the experience is one that you won't forget. Passion & Thyme stands among the top restaurants in Nungwi not only for menu choice and availability, however for a cosy environment, consistency in service, and chefs knowledge of cooking methods and details - it is great for couples, foodies, or anyone wanting a culinary experience beyond typical beachside grills or seafood shacks /catch of the day.

• Location: Near Nungwi House, a short walk from Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar.

Discover authentic Tanzanian cuisine at Passion & Thyme in Nungwi – where fresh ingredients meet culinary passion

If you’re exploring more dining destinations in Tanzania, check out our guide to nice restaurants in Dodoma serving a variety of local and international dishes.

MAHI MAHI Beach Bar & Restaurant

MAHI MAHI Beach Bar & Restaurant is a lively beachfront location recognized for its laid-back ambiance, ocean views, and delicious seafood offering. A favorite for both residents and tourists alike, a great place to enjoy fresh seafood by the ocean, fresh grilled fish, prawns, and tropical cocktails while the land breeze is blowing. 

With its open-air layout, rustic wooden décor, and sunset views overhead, the restaurant is a perfect venue for a relaxed midday meal or romantic night at the beach. The open-air design and beach-side bonfires are often accompanied by several evenings of live music which contributes to a fun yet relaxed environment. Whether you just want to grab a drink after swimming or sit down for a full dinner of seafood, MAHI MAHI Beach Bar & Restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience on the coast with friendly service. 

• Location: Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar Island.

Badolina Secret Garden Restaurant

Badolina Secret Garden Restaurant is often considered one of the top restaurants in Nungwi, with its lovely ambiance and delightful Mediterranean-inspired options. It is tucked away in a garden and provides a pleasant retreat from those busy beachfront crowds. Guests can enjoy delectable pasta made fresh daily, grilled seafood, or flavorful vegetarian dishes, beautifully presented. 

Each table is illuminated with candles, and soft music in the background creates a romantic atmosphere, especially for couples. In addition to great food, Badolina provides attentive service and stunning décor, offering visitors a dining experience that will stay with them long after their meal. If you are looking for a quieter dining experience, or simply a unique space away from touristy restaurants, Badolina Secret Garden is worth a visit in Nungwi. It embodies the charm of Zanzibar - intimate, flavorful, and beautiful.

• Location: Badolina Secret Garden, Nungwi, Zanzibar.

Badolina is a newly-opened restaurant in Nungwi, 80m from the beach, in a charming garden, offering fresh vegetables, salads and herbs

For more great dining experiences across the coast, explore our guide to food places in Dar es Salaam featuring top restaurants and local favorites.

Baraka Beach Restaurant

Baraka Beach Restaurant is often ranked among the best seafood restaurants in Nungwi offering a true taste of Zanzibari coastal cuisine. Serving a fresh daily catch, Baraka Beach Restaurant has grilled lobster, octopus, prawns, and fish accented with Swahili spices.  Guests are able to eat with their feet in the sand, watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean, a beautiful backdrop for both informal lunches and romantic dinners. 

The pleasant open-air environment, combined with the friendly staff, adds to the overall experience. It is a favorite amongst tourists and locals alike; Baraka is a fantastic restaurant for anyone looking to enjoy the culinary heritage of Nungwi in a relaxed beachfront atmosphere. 

• Location: Nungwi Beach, next to Baraka Bungalows, Zanzibar.

Baraka Beach Restaurant in Nungwi is a popular spot for fresh seafood with a beachfront setting

Machnoo Local Restaurant

If you're thinking about authentic food in Tanzania, Machnoo Local Restaurant is a laid-back restaurant serving delicious local Zanzibari dishes with simple charm. It is frequently mentioned in conversation as a nice restaurant in Nungwi, but it is surely more understated than the phrase 'nice restaurant' suggests. Guests will find fresh local ingredients and spices layered in the Zanzibari cuisine served, including Zanzibar biryani, octopus curry, coconut rice, and grilled fish. 

Machnoo is different from tourist spots, and is a more comfortable place where you feel right at home with other diners while experiencing real island hospitality. It is a fantastic choice for a budget traveler as it offers locals and travelers looking for something more than just a meal at the resort a locally-focused, budget-friendly alternative to eating out. It offers open-air seating, a welcome feature for those looking to relax after a day at the beach. It is fun, delicious, and affordable — a great choice for travelers who want to dine and experience what real Zanzibar feels like beyond the resort.

• Location: Near Sharp Football Ground, Nungwi, Zanzibar.

Fisherman's Seafood & Grill

Fisherman’s Seafood & Grill is one of the most famous restaurants in Nungwi popular with visitors looking for fresh seafood with a "real ocean-to-table" experience. The restaurant, with its unbeatable view of the sunset, is a short stroll from the beach and serves grilled lobster, prawns, octopus, and freshly caught fish made from local spices. 

Fisherman’s is enjoyed in a relaxed, barefoot setting among palm trees, while listening to the waves. The restaurant serves fresh, local seafood and Swahili favorites in addition to vegetarian options. Everything is fresh - the seafood is brought in daily by local fishermen. Fisherman’s Seafood & Grill provides a casual, friendly environment with great portions, and it is popular with visitors and local residents. Whether you are dining as a couple or enjoying a late afternoon meal on the beach, you can be confident that Fisherman’s will provide an authentic taste of Zanzibar’s coastal cuisine. 

• Location: Nungwi Beach, next to Turaco Blue Zanzibar Hotel.

Fisherman's is a top-rated restaurant in Nungwi, Zanzibar, offering diverse cuisines, signature platters, and ocean views, with a beachfront ambiance

For those wanting to explore beyond Nungwi, our guide to restaurants in Mwanza highlights great lakeside dining spots worth discovering.

Hanoi House Nungwi

Nestled in tranquil Nungwi, Hanoi House Nungwi is a delightful restaurant in Zanzibar that creatively mixes local coastal flavors of Nungwi with authentic and traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Located slightly away from the busy beach area, this restaurant has a relaxed casual vibe while guests can enjoy dishes such as pho, fresh spring rolls, or stir-fried noodles. 

The restaurant has also creatively incorporated local ingredients to dishes from Asia, providing a delightful, hand-crafted dish of fusion plates from both communities. The inviting atmosphere is aided by warm lights, bamboo décor, and friendly staff. If you just want something different from the typical seafood grill, the Hanoi House Nungwi will give you satisfying meals and a memorable experience. Dining here not only offers quality Asian dishes but also provides a refreshing place to spend the evening. Hanoi House Nungwi will quickly become one of your go-to locations for dinner and will stand out from the colorful local restaurant scene in Zanzibar.

• Location: 77CX+36V, Nungwi Rd, Nungwi, Tanzania

YASA Restaurant & Bar

YASA Restaurant & Bar is an ideal place for travelers to unwind and enjoy a meal out in Singida. Its central location makes it easy for both locals and tourists to get there and enjoy the combination of local Tanzanian and light international dishes. The guests can savor dishes such as grilled meat (nyama choma), pilau, and vegetable salads, all made with regional products. 

The bar area comes alive with music and conversation as night falls, thus forming a very friendly and inviting space. Whether your visit is for lunch or dinner, or just a drink after a day of sightseeing, YASA Restaurant & Bar is always hospitable to its customers, giving them a taste of Singida's hospitality. With the laid-back atmosphere and vibrant energy, it is the perfect place to treat yourself to delicious food, meet people from different walks of life, and partake in the local culture.

• Location: Central Nungwi, a short walk from the main beach.

YASA Restaurant & Bar offers a dynamic mix of international fusion cuisine with a distinct African twist

Maisha Beach Restaurant

Maisha Beach Restaurant is one of the most highly rated affordable restaurants in Nungwi, Zanzibar Island. It is a luxurious place to enjoy dining by the beach for low rates. The restaurant is set at the end of the beach which means, one can enjoy fresh grilled seafood, Zanzibari curries, and international dishes like Chipsi Mayai and more. All this while watching the sun dip into the ocean.

Moreover, the restaurant has a relaxed and breezy dining area where the staff are friendly and helpful. Consequently, both tourists and locals often choose Maisha Beach Restaurant as their favorite place to dine and social hangout. The customers are offered big servings at prices which are considered reasonable. The location, ambience and good food can be enjoyed even by those on a budget. If one is on a holiday in Nungwi - whether you’ve just had a swim and are having lunch or are having a romantic dinner right at the beach- hidden behind the view of the ocean is the real Zanzibari flavor! It is indeed a place not to miss if you are in Nungwi hunting for unbelievable value!

• Location: Aluna Road, near Aluna Nungwi Hotel, Zanzibar.

The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes and cocktails, complemented by stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean

Mama Mia

Mama Mia Restaurant is one of the most popular Italian restaurants in Nungwi, renowned for its authentic flavors and idyllic beachfront location. The relaxed dining environment allows guests to enjoy fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza, and homemade gelato, which is especially delicious thanks to its creamy, rich flavor. The restaurant is owned by Italians, who always use traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients.

 While Mama Mia serves classic Italian food, they also have a thoughtful selection of fish options, all inspired by cuisine in Zanzibar. Watching the sunset with a slice of pizza or a scoop of gelato in hand is an experience to savor. Reasonably priced and friendly, Mama Mia attracts vacationers and long-term guests alike. For travelers seeking authentic Italian cuisine in Zanzibar, Mama Mia Restaurant in Nungwi is a must-visit!.

• Location: On the beachfront near Nungwi Beach Jetty, Zanzibar.

Terrace Nungwi

Terrace Nungwi is a delightful rooftop restaurant that offers one of the most spectacular dining views in the northern part of Zanzibar Island. Guests can relish the chef’s creations with friends in a romantic setting, perfect for a sunset dinner or evening cocktails. Gorgeous ocean and beach views will be the main attraction. The guests are going to get a huge menu with several fresh seafood, Swahili-inspired dishes, and international favorite ones that will be able to satisfy even the most daring or the most careful comfort food lover.

What truly sets Terrace Nungwi apart is its panoramic ocean view, a lovely romantic spot for couples or simply a peaceful escapade for a traveler passing through. Service is consistently outstanding, comfortable seating is provided, and the atmosphere is chill enough to enjoy the music softly playing in the background. If someone is looking for a peaceful dinner or plans to have a drink with a sunset view in mind, the experience will not disappoint. Great food set against one of the more scenic coastal dining views of the island, Terrace Nungwi provides a wonderful experience in Zanzibar.

• Location: Rooftop of The Z Hotel, Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar.

Terrace Nungwi offers world cuisine, fresh seafood, and international dishes, with vegetarian and vegan options, located on the beach in Nungwi

TAM TAM RESTAURANT

Tam Tam Restaurant, located in Nungwi, is a lively and inviting place that specializes in a fusion of local dishes from Zanzibar as well as comfort food from all over the globe. Tam Tam is easygoing and casual. It’s just a stone’s throw from the beach and perfect for a simple, tasty lunch or dinner. Visitors can eat whatever they like, such as grilled seafood, curries from Zanzibar, fresh salads, or even pizza or burgers. Tam Tam is for anyone who wants some good food! 

Tam Tam is especially popular in the evenings, when guests frequent the restaurant for live music or dancing performances along with their meal. With fantastic service, big portions, and decent prices, it's a perfect spot for travelers and locals who appreciate good food at fair prices Whether guests want to enjoy Tanzanian flavors, relax, or make new friends, it has great food and a laid-back vibe.

• Location: Nungwi Main Beach Road, Zanzibar (a short walk from Baraka Beach).

Budget, taste, or view? How to choose restaurants in Nungwi

Nungwi, a village located at the northern tip of Zanzibar, is home to a great number of restaurants and dining establishments including seafood grills on the beach and tiny home restaurants. With so many choices available, deciding on a restaurant can greatly impact your travel experience. Here are some of the most important things to consider when selecting a restaurant in Nungwi.

When choosing a restaurant, you should consider the price of the food in comparison to how many guests you are expecting

Cuisine type and menu focus

• Seafood: Nungwi is well-known for being beside the ocean so be sure to select a restaurant that has a "catch of the day" to be freshest (Fisherman's Grill, Baraka Beach) 
• Local Swahili Dishes: If you’d like to try authentic Zanzibar flavor, be on the lookout for restaurants with a focus on Swahili dishes such as Pilau or coconut curry. 
• International Variety:  If you have a group or friends with varied tastes, it may be worth checking restaurants that offer a decent mix of Italian like Mama Mia, or a general selection of international dishes. 
• Dietary Needs: Check if the restaurant can cater to vegetarians, vegans, or certain allergies (Badolina Secret Garden is a very reputable place to get vegetarian).

Location and atmosphere

• Beachfront Sunset Views: Many of Nungwi's best restaurants are actually located on the beach\front! For a unique sunset dining experience, pick a restaurant with ocean views (for example, Langi Langi, or Sexy Fish). 
• Casual vs. Upscale Vibe: Consider if you'd like a casual dining experience with your toes-in-the-sand (for example, Baraka Beach) versus something more elegant and upscale (for example,  Fisherman's Seafood & Grill). 
• Distance: Consider how far you want to walk. Some restaurants are attached to the resorts and may require a short taxi ride, while the majority of the best spots are walkable along the main beach path. 
• Atmosphere: In some places, after dark the restaurant will be transformed into a party bar, whereas the restaurant remains romantic and quiet in other places.

Quality and reviews

• Internet Ratings: Look for recent reviews on sites such as Google Maps or Trip Advisor. Focus particularly on comments about the freshness and quality of the food and the speed of service. 
• Local Recommendations: Ask the hotel staff or taxi driver about their own favorites. They’ll usually know the most authentic and consistently good place to eat.
• Presentation and Hygiene: Observe the general cleanliness of the restaurant and how the food is displayed, especially at local markets or less formal spots.

Price and value

• Price Range: Nungwi has a diverse spectrum of prices in terms of food. Restaurants in big name resorts are usually the most expensive. 
• Value for Money: Judging portion size, quality of ingredients and overall experience account for value for money. In certain instances, a small independent restaurant might provide superior value-for-money to an all-you-can-eat buffet at a cheap resort if the price is marginally higher.

Service and hospitality

A friendly demeanor is important for satisfaction overall. While waitstaff who are friendly and talkative and willing to describe dishes add to a good experience. In Nungwi, many of the restaurants have staff who can communicate in some manner in Swahili, so knowing a few simple phrases such as “Asante” (thank you) or “Tafadhali” (please) may help you communicate.

Authenticity and cultural experience

Finally, if you'd like to engage with Zanzibari culture, select places that offer local dishes like ugali, pilau, nyama choma, or fresh grilled fish. A meal you will remember for a long time in Nungwi is more than just about the flavor, it's about the connection to culture.

Conclusion

When you explore the top 13 restaurants in Nungwi, you won't just be exploring the dining scene—you're tasting the culture, hospitality, and coastal vibes of Zanzibar. This is a real Tanganyika trip where the freshest seafood comes served on the sands of the beach and where good-natured locals welcome you to taste their latest Swahili creations.

Every restaurant in Nungwi has its unique way of telling its own version of the dining story in Nungwi. It may be a backpacker choosing a local dish that fits his/her budget or a serious foodie finding the place for 'sunset dining' with a view of the ocean being the most expensive place for dinners. Nothing can come close to the smiles, relaxed environment, and dining places close to the ocean as having the biggest impact on your experience as a traveler. If you are going to Nungwi, don’t forget the first day of your trip should be about exploring and tasting new things — flavors that the nearby village is ready to share with you. In Nungwi one cannot ever have enough meals for creating more memories.