The must-go rooftop while you are in Zanzibar
Best culinary experience in Stone Town
Tanzania is one of the most incredible country you can ever visit; The impressive variety of food you will discover in Zanzibar really plays a part in making it THE destination for food lovers. All around the island ( and even on sandbanks) there are many hotspots offering authentic Tanzanian dishes and plenty of exotic fruits you might have never even seen before! But If you only had one night to spend in Stone town, Emerson on Hurumzi is where you want to be for diner.
Located at the top floor of what used to be the home of one of the richest men in the Swahili Empire- next to the shop of the designer Farouque Abdellah ( who designed clothes for Lady Diana , Maya Angelou etc..). You will need a reservation to enjoy one of the most magical dining experience of your life. For $35 have delightful insights of Tanzanian culture literally served on a platter! Enjoy a generous set menu offering incomparable African flavours, the experience’s worth it.
It is memorable to be seated in such wonderful decor: You are on a rooftop, able to observe the stars while breathing the fresh air from the Indian ocean. As the night goes by, the atmosphere gets even more charming with the night falling on breathtaking horizons, the Hindu temple Shakti mandir and songs coming out of the mosques. It is peaceful and a space out of time.
The level of service is impressive- A maitre d’hotel welcomes you, makes sure you are comfortably seated ‘African style’, on top of pillow made from Khanga ( traditional zanzibar fabric ) before captivating us with a little bit of the hotel history and a few words about the landmarks around. When it is show time, traditional musicians are doing the interlude between courses- Just the right amount of entertainment to engage further more with magic while we enjoy the experience to our own rhythm. Each table got its own waiter presenting the dishes with great care and without rushing you. The intimate table setup will have you talking with the people seated next to you and meeting new friends very quickly- if not the members of staff all have a story to tell and are happy to share it!
Tonight on the menu Spice salted squid, beetroot tahini, Arabian flatbread. Followed by Samaki wa chicha, pumpkin tagine, massaman goat curry served with pilau rice, green papaya salad and a variety of side dishes. The dessert was a light and refreshing exotic fruit salad with some typical Zanzibar delights made from shaved coconut, sesame seeds, tamarind and fresh dattes.
Africa got to surprise us on its way to elevate the luxury experience by bringing it back to earth. Emerson on Hurumzi is one of the best culinary experience in Tanzania if not on the African continent and you will remember your time here. The evening was elaborated but the unfolding felt very natural yet outstanding! This heart-warming approach of service and people challenges what fine-dining feels like.