Jambo guys! Today, I want to talk about two of my favorite restaurants in town—Masa Japanese Restaurant and Cape Town Fish Market—where sushi and other killer dishes shine in Zanzibar. This “Spice Island” off Tanzania’s coast is a sensory playground: turquoise waters, historic Stone Town, and a Swahili culinary heartbeat. The sushi’s a highlight, thanks to the Indian Ocean’s samaki (fish) like tuna, octopus, and lobster, blending Japanese finesse with island zest. But there’s more to love, and with a dash of Cape Town vibes in Zanzibar—a bit of South Africa’s famous city—these spots bring the heat, the flavor, and the fun!
My Favorite Spot #1 Cape Town Fish Market
Cape Town Fish Market in Forodhani Gardens, Stone Town—another famous spot to eat sushi in Zanzibar, with a chill vibe, killer view, and a touch of Cape Town vibes in Zanzibar, channeling a bit of South Africa’s famous city. The sushi’s solid, using the day’s catch for platters or nigiri with Swahili flair. But beyond sushi, their fish and chips and tuna carpaccio are must-tries when you’re here.
The fish and chips are crispy, golden perfection—samaki so fresh it’s like the ocean’s winking at you. The tuna carpaccio? Thinly sliced, melt-in-your-mouth wow. The setting’s the star: oceanfront, with the port and waves in sight, and Forodhani’s night market humming nearby as the sun dips. It’s tourist-friendly and relaxed—hours vary, so check ahead. That view of the ocean and port? A postcard moment every time, with a South African twist that makes it feel vibrant and alive. I kick things off with a cold Savannah cider—its apple bite pairs perfectly with the seafood—but gin, spritz, or wine work too. No matter what time it is, I’m sure you’ll enjoy eating with your loved ones here.
Tip: Don’t forget to bring your jacket or a poncho—when you sit outside at night, it gets windy by the water, and you’ll want to stay cozy while sipping your drink and enjoying your meal. If you love music and want to dance, then Cape Town at night is the perfect place for you—the music shows with live performances bring those Cape Town vibes in Zanzibar, a bit of South Africa’s famous city energy right to the island.
My Favorite Spot #2: Masa Japanese Restaurant in Stone Town is my sushi sanctuary—and a famous spot to eat sushi here. Tucked on Kenyatta Road above the old post office, this rooftop hideaway is a gem. Run by a Japanese owner who’s embraced Zanzibar, Masa turns the freshest samaki into dishes that have me saying asante (thank you) every visit.
Up a quiet staircase, you land in a cozy, open-air nook—a break from Stone Town’s buzz. The menu’s a dream: silky tuna sashimi, sushi rolls that pop, and rock lobster rolls fresh from the sea. The fish is local, caught daily, and prices are fair. The staff add a personal touch—sometimes offering a dash of Zanzibari spice if I’m game. The view? You’re gazing over historic palaces, Stone Town’s ancient rooftops glowing at sunset. No matter what time it is, I’m sure you’ll enjoy eating with your loved ones here. Asante sana (thank you very much) to Masa.
Tip: The rooftop can get breezy after dark, so toss a light scarf or jacket in your bag to stay comfy while you sip and savor that historic vibe. If you’re craving a quiet evening, this spot’s serene setting is perfect—Cape Town’s music shows at night with live performances are better for a lively vibe.
Which View Wins?
Masa’s view of historic palaces or Cape Town’s ocean and port—which would I choose? It’s a toss-up! Masa’s rooftop perch around Stone Town’s ancient palaces feels like stepping into history—quiet, intimate, and perfect for a cultured sushi night with my Savannah. Cape Town’s oceanfront gaze, with the port bustling, waves rolling, and a splash of South African flair, is my pick for that coastal buzz—lively and laid-back, especially with fish and chips or carpaccio and a cider. Sushi and serenity? Masa. Variety and waterfront energy with a dance beat? Cape Town. They’re steps apart in Stone Town—try both if you can!
After-Dinner Bliss
To really enjoy my time after all that sushi, sometimes I head to the Park Hyatt in Stone Town for a tea digestive. Sipping a warm, soothing tea—maybe spiced with local flavors—I get to unwind with an amazing view of the waterfront and a good atmosphere. It’s the perfect cap to a meal at Masa or Cape Town, letting the night linger a little longer with loved ones.
Final Thoughts
Zanzibar’s food scene is full of surprises, and I’m hooked. At Masa Japanese Restaurant and Cape Town Fish Market—famous spots to eat sushi in Zanzibar—you’re tasting the island’s magic—samaki-rich waters and spice-dusted roots. Start with a cold Savannah (or gin, spritz, wine—your call), soak in Masa’s historic palace views or Cape Town’s ocean-port panorama with its Cape Town vibes in Zanzibar, a bit of South Africa’s famous city flair, and enjoy with loved ones anytime. Pack that jacket or poncho, say asante to the ocean and the hands that craft it, then maybe hit Park Hyatt for a tea digestive with a view. Want to dance? Cape Town’s night music is calling—Masa’s your calm retreat. Jambo—dig in and pick your vibe!
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