Stone Town’s charm lies in its fusion—of cultures, eras, and flavors. But there’s another layer, quite literally, to this UNESCO-listed city: its rooftops. Few African destinations offer such a compelling rooftop restaurant scene, and even fewer deliver this kind of atmosphere with historical character, ocean vistas, and culinary finesse. Rooftop dining in Stone Town isn’t just about eating—it’s about experiencing Zanzibar from above, as the call to prayer echoes across the coral rag rooftops, the sea breeze rolls in, and lanterns flicker against a pastel sky.
From refined fine dining to casual local bites under the stars, this is a guide to the most iconic rooftop restaurants in Stone Town. Whether you’re chasing flavors, views, or a memorable evening out, here’s where to find the best rooftop restaurant experiences in Zanzibar’s most atmospheric city.
Why Stone Town Owns the Rooftop Dining Scene in East Africa
Across much of coastal East Africa, rooftop dining remains a rarity. Nairobi and Dar es Salaam are just beginning to build their own skyline venues, catering mainly to the business elite. But in Zanzibar—and particularly in Stone Town—the rooftop restaurant is already an institution. The town’s architectural heritage, shaped by Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influences, features flat roofs and open-air courtyards that have organically given rise to rooftop terraces.
Combine that with an unrivaled setting: the labyrinth of old streets, the glittering Indian Ocean, and centuries-old minarets all visible from above. This isn’t just dining with a view—it’s dining in the very heart of Zanzibar’s living history.
Emerson on Hurumzi: Zanzibar’s Quintessential Rooftop Restaurant
One simply cannot talk about rooftop restaurants in Stone Town without beginning at Emerson on Hurumzi. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century merchant’s mansion along Hurumzi Street, this restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a cultural and sensory immersion. Located right in the heart of central Stone Town, Emerson on Hurumzi is part of a boutique hotel that embraces the full spirit of Zanzibari architecture, complete with antique wooden doors, coral stone walls, and interiors adorned with Persian rugs and brass lanterns.
The setting itself is a spectacle, sitting high above the town’s twisting alleys and aged stone buildings. From the top, diners are treated to sweeping, unobstructed views of Forodhani Gardens, the House of Wonders, the historic port, and on a clear day, even the faint silhouette of Prison Island floating on the Indian Ocean horizon. It’s the highest publicly accessible rooftop in all of Stone Town, and that height delivers an experience that’s almost otherworldly at sunset. As the golden light fades, the muezzin’s call from a dozen mosques echoes across the rooftops, blending seamlessly with the sound of distant waves and the clink of cutlery.
Dining at Emerson on Hurumzi is as much a performance as it is a meal. Guests sit on embroidered cushions around low Swahili-style tables beneath a striking open-air pavilion, whose domed canopy frames the sky like a piece of architecture out of the Arabian Nights. The restaurant follows a prix fixe format, with a five-course menu that changes daily depending on what’s fresh and in season.
The dishes are deeply rooted in Zanzibar’s culinary heritage but elevated through international techniques and thoughtful presentation. Diners may find themselves savoring tender octopus in coconut curry, tamarind-glazed snapper, sesame-coated eggplant, and fragrant rice infused with local spices like clove and cardamom. The desserts, often fruit-forward and aromatic, are a final ode to Zanzibar’s famed spice legacy.
Meals unfold slowly, in deliberate stages, with the staff introducing each course and often sharing the story behind the dish or the ingredients. You don’t just eat—you’re guided through a culinary narrative that reflects the history, culture, and vibrancy of the island. Reservations are essential, especially in high season, and guests are encouraged to arrive just before sunset to fully embrace the transformation of the rooftop into a lantern-lit oasis in the sky. At Emerson on Hurumzi, dining isn’t simply about food—it’s a full-bodied Zanzibari ritual.
Tea House Restaurant at Emerson Spice: Romance and Refinement
Sister to Emerson on Hurumzi, the Tea House Restaurant crowns the Emerson Spice Hotel on Tharia Street, just a short walk from the Old Dispensary. Tucked into a quieter corner of Stone Town, this rooftop restaurant offers a more intimate version of the Emerson experience, perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to savor Zanzibar’s atmosphere without the theatrical flair of its sister venue.
The building itself is another restored 19th-century gem, steeped in history and character. The rooftop terrace is modest in size, with only a few carefully arranged tables that allow for privacy and unobstructed views. From this perch, diners enjoy sweeping sights of the Indian Ocean shimmering in the distance, the coral-hued rooftops of Stone Town below, and the striking tower of the nearby Anglican Cathedral rising above the tangle of alleyways. It’s a rooftop that feels tucked away from the bustle, yet somehow still at the very center of it all.
Dining at the Tea House follows the same prix fixe tradition, with a multi-course menu that shifts according to seasonality and the day’s fresh market finds. The culinary approach is rooted in Zanzibar’s spice-rich legacy but refined with subtle flair. Past menus have featured dishes like lobster tail paired with mango chutney, cumin-scented fish served alongside clove-laced rice, and tender grilled eggplant with a tamarind reduction. Every plate is thoughtfully prepared and elegantly presented, offering a harmonious blend of local ingredients and global techniques.
The setting is warmly atmospheric. Antique brass lanterns flicker as the evening deepens, Swahili textiles drape the seating areas, and soft ocean breezes drift through the space. On select evenings, a platform at one end of the rooftop hosts live Taarab music—a traditional Zanzibari genre blending Arabic, African, and Indian influences—adding an extra layer of cultural immersion. Compared to the lively and slightly theatrical ambiance at Hurumzi, the Tea House is more subdued and romantic, ideal for those looking to experience the magic of Stone Town rooftops in a serene, sophisticated setting.
The 5th Restaurant at Upendo House: Bohemian Luxe Meets Gourmet Flair
Perched atop Upendo House, one of Stone Town’s most stylish boutique hotels, The 5th blends coastal elegance with a relaxed, bohemian vibe. Located along Gizenga Street just steps from Forodhani Gardens, it attracts both hotel guests and visiting food lovers seeking a modern culinary experience with a distinctly Zanzibari twist.
From its elevated perch, the rooftop offers sweeping views across Stone Town’s skyline. Diners can look out over the Indian Ocean, spot the iconic House of Wonders rising above the rooftops, and watch the energy of Gizenga Street and Forodhani Park unfold below.
The space is flexible and welcoming—perfect for brunch, sundowners, or evening dinners. A small plunge pool and plush lounge seating give it a resort-like feel, while candlelit tables and Swahili-inspired decor add warmth and atmosphere. It’s upscale without being formal, striking an easy balance between comfort and style.
The kitchen focuses on international fusion with bold, creative flavors. Dishes like prawn linguine, seared tuna with roasted vegetables, and beetroot hummus with flatbread highlight the menu, alongside vegan options built around fresh local produce. Most ingredients are sourced from nearby farms and fishermen, keeping the food both fresh and rooted in place.
Cocktails are a standout here, with inventive blends built around tropical fruits and island spices—passion fruit mojitos, lemongrass gin, and clove-infused negronis among the favorites. As the sun sets and the sounds of Stone Town drift upward, the rooftop at Upendo House becomes one of the best places in town to unwind with a drink and take in the view.
Taarab Restaurant: Fine Dining in a Historic Setting
Perched atop the DoubleTree by Hilton in Stone Town, Taarab Restaurant offers a refined rooftop dining experience that seamlessly blends international flavors with Zanzibari flair. Located on Shangani Street, this sixth-floor venue provides panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the historic cityscape, making it a standout choice for those seeking both culinary excellence and a memorable setting.
The restaurant’s ambiance is a harmonious mix of contemporary design and local charm, featuring both indoor seating and an open-air terrace. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu that includes fresh seafood, international fusion dishes, and traditional Swahili cuisine. Signature offerings like the coconut crab soup and grilled lobster showcase the kitchen’s commitment to quality and flavor.
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Taarab Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering to a variety of dining preferences throughout the day. The rooftop setting is particularly popular during sunset hours, providing an ideal backdrop for evening meals and cocktails.
With its combination of stunning views, attentive service, and a menu that celebrates both local and international cuisines, Taarab Restaurant stands as a premier rooftop dining destination in Stone Town.
Maru Maru Rooftop: Classic Sunset Spot for Dining and Drinks
Rising above the narrow lanes just off Gizenga Street, the rooftop at Maru Maru Hotel is a well-established and versatile rooftop restaurant in Stone Town. While others lean heavily into set menus or curated atmospheres, Maru Maru offers something more flexible—an all-day rooftop experience with broad appeal, reliable food, and some of the best panoramic views in town.
From the top floor, the view stretches across the rooftops of central Stone Town to the Indian Ocean beyond. As evening falls, the setting shifts into high gear—sunset drinks, live music on some nights, and a casual but stylish atmosphere that draws in everyone from hotel guests to walk-ins. You’ll spot the silhouettes of the House of Wonders and the Old Fort in one direction, while the coast glows amber on the other. It’s one of the easiest places in town to enjoy rooftop dining without the need for reservations or formality.
The Terrace menu leans international, with something for most palates: grilled seafood, chicken tikka, pasta, wraps, and burgers, as well as Swahili-inspired dishes like coconut fish curry and tamarind prawns. Vegetarians and vegans are also well catered for. While it may not aim for the fine-dining precision of Emerson, the portions are solid, the flavors consistent, and the service fast enough to keep the cocktails flowing without delay.
The drinks menu is a major draw—especially at sunset. Expect a wide range of cocktails with tropical and spice-forward twists, alongside chilled local beers, smoothies, and a short but dependable wine list. It’s more of a rooftop hangout than a culinary event, and that’s exactly what gives it staying power.
In a town full of character rooftops, Maru Maru doesn’t try to compete on theatrics or exclusivity. Instead, it delivers one of the most accessible and reliable rooftop dining options in Stone Town—ideal for a casual dinner, a sunset drink, or an easygoing night with a view.
Africa House Hotel Sunset Lounge: The Original Rooftop Bar
Africa House Hotel is home to one of Zanzibar’s oldest and most iconic rooftop bars—a venue steeped in history and coastal charm. Located along Shangani Street near the seafront, the building once served as the English Club during colonial times and still carries that legacy of social gathering and relaxed elegance. Its rooftop terrace has welcomed generations of travelers, diplomats, and wanderers looking to unwind with a drink and a view.
The setting is unmistakably old-world, with weathered wooden beams, antique railings, and faded photos of Zanzibar’s past lining the walls. From the rooftop, the view stretches wide across the Indian Ocean, offering some of the best sunset vistas in Stone Town. As the sky shifts through hues of orange and pink, the terrace fills with golden light and the soft sound of waves in the distance.
The drinks menu is broad, offering everything from local beers and tropical cocktails to a small but solid wine selection. While the food is secondary—think burgers, grilled chicken, and basic bar snacks—it’s enough to complement the main draw: the atmosphere and the view.
Africa House isn’t about fine dining or cutting-edge mixology. It’s about settling into a piece of history, sipping something cold, and watching the sun dip below the horizon in one of the most timeless corners of Stone Town.
Lulu Rooftop at The Seyyida Hotel: Elegant Dining with a Middle Eastern Twist
Lulu Rooftop sits quietly atop The Seyyida Hotel, just a short walk from the Palace Museum and the waterfront. Unlike the more theatrical or curated rooftop spots in Stone Town, Lulu offers a more low-key setting—comfortable, unfussy, and with just the right mix of style and calm. From its upper terrace, you get a clear view of the Indian Ocean on one side and the curved rooftops of the old town on the other.
The vibe here is intimate without trying too hard. Soft lighting, simple furnishings, and well-spaced tables make it an easy choice for couples or small groups who want to enjoy the view without a crowd. It’s not buzzing like Maru Maru or dressed up like Emerson—but that’s part of its appeal.
The kitchen leans Mediterranean with a Middle Eastern touch, and Zanzibari ingredients are woven through the menu. Grilled prawns with lemon and garlic, mezze platters, saffron rice, and fish straight from the market are typical offerings. You’ll also find plenty of well-executed vegetarian dishes, like spiced vegetable tagines and fresh herb salads. The portions are generous, the plating clean, and the service efficient without being overbearing.
Lulu might not be the first name that comes up in Stone Town’s rooftop scene, but for those looking for a solid meal in a relaxed, elevated setting—with real views and real flavor—it’s well worth seeking out.
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Rooftop: Quiet Elegance by the Sea
Just above the shoreline in the Shangani district, the rooftop terrace at Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers a more understated take on rooftop dining in Stone Town. It’s not the tallest or trendiest, but its location—right by the water—means uninterrupted ocean views, traditional dhows drifting past at sunset, and a soft breeze rolling in off the sea.
The terrace is part of the hotel’s Baharia Restaurant, and the menu reflects Serena’s polished, reliable approach to hospitality. Dishes are well-crafted without being overcomplicated—grilled lobster, Swahili-style coconut curry, peppered beef fillet, and mixed seafood platters are among the highlights. Service is attentive and the setting formal, with crisp linens and quiet confidence.
This isn’t a social rooftop for cocktails and buzz. It’s a place for a slow, refined dinner with a view. If you’re looking for somewhere to escape the crowd and enjoy well-executed food in a calm, coastal setting, Serena’s rooftop is the place.
Jafferji House Rooftop: Intimate Dining with a Swahili Twist
Tucked between Kenyatta Road and Gizenga Street, the rooftop at Jafferji House is easy to overlook—but worth seeking out. Quiet, compact, and full of character, it offers a more personal take on rooftop dining in Stone Town, with soft lighting, antique details, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels far removed from the streets below.
The menu blends Swahili traditions with Indian, Arabic, and European influences—true to the cultural mix of Zanzibar itself. Dishes like mango-glazed chicken, tandoori-style seafood, and biryani with coconut chutney are typical, alongside lighter vegetarian options and seasonal specials. The food is consistently well-prepared, and the setting adds to the experience: cozy, candlelit, and unpretentious.
Jafferji House doesn’t try to compete with the bigger rooftop names. Instead, it offers something quieter and more grounded. For travelers looking to enjoy flavorful food in a setting that feels authentically local—and pleasantly off the radar—this rooftop delivers.
The Rooftop Scene Beyond Stone Town: A Zanzibar Specialty
While Stone Town owns the rooftop restaurant scene in Zanzibar, a few hotels outside the city are catching on. The likes of Zuri Zanzibar, Kendwa Rocks, or Maisha Beach Restaurant in Nungwi offer elevated beachfront terraces, but these are more open-deck lounges than true rooftop venues.
In comparison, rooftop dining in mainland East Africa remains limited. Nairobi has recently seen a boom in skyline bars and rooftop eateries, especially in areas like Westlands and Kilimani, but these cater primarily to a corporate urban clientele. Dar es Salaam offers a few high-rise restaurants, mostly in hotels like the Hyatt Regency and Johari Rotana, yet the city’s architecture doesn’t support the kind of intimate, rooftop charm Stone Town effortlessly delivers.
In short, Zanzibar is leading the way—and Stone Town is its rooftop crown jewel.
Tips for Rooftop Dining in Stone Town
Book in advance
Especially for Emerson or Beyt Al Salaam, reservations are essential. Some places fill up days in advance during high season.
Dress appropriately
Most rooftop restaurants are informal, but smart-casual is always safe. Pack a shawl or light jacket—the breeze can pick up after sunset.
Arrive before sunset
Many rooftops offer the best views during golden hour. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset for photos and atmosphere.
Watch the weather
Rainy evenings can mean canceled rooftop dinners. Check the forecast before booking.
Vegetarian and vegan options
Most venues are very accommodating. Dishes with lentils, coconut, cassava, and local greens are commonly offered.
Final Bite: Dining With a View, the Zanzibari Way
A rooftop restaurant in Stone Town isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to savor. Savor the layered spices of Zanzibari cuisine. Savor the breeze coming off the Indian Ocean. Savor the call to prayer echoing through coral-stone minarets. This is rooftop dining that doesn’t just fill your stomach—it moves your soul.
So whether you’re a devoted foodie, a romantic traveler, or a seeker of elevated views and flavors, make time for at least one rooftop dinner in Stone Town. Better yet, try several. Each one offers a different window into the culture, cuisine, and coastal magic of Zanzibar.
