Forodhani Gardens Night Market
Zanzibar, Tanzania · Food
About Forodhani Gardens Night Market
Forodhani Gardens Night Market is an iconic seaside food hub situated along the historic waterfront of Stone Town in Zanzibar. Every evening as dusk falls, dozens of food vendors set up stalls under warm lanterns to showcase the island's unique blend of Swahili, Arab, and Indian culinary traditions. It is famous worldwide for its bustling open-air atmosphere, sunset views, and street delights like Zanzibar pizza and seafood skewers.
Don't miss
- Watch vendors prepare savory or sweet Zanzibar pizzas folded and crisped on hot flat-top griddles.
- Sample freshly pressed sugarcane juice infused with zesty lime and spicy ginger.
- Pick from an array of grilled seafood skewers including prawns, octopus, and fresh catch of the day.
- Stroll along the historic seawall to catch sunset views and watch local youths diving into the ocean.
Plan your visit
Arrive just before sunset around 6:00 PM to secure a good spot along the seawall and watch the market come alive. The dry months from June to October offer warm, pleasant evenings with minimal rain.
Entry to the gardens and market area is completely free with no tickets or reservations required. You only pay in cash for the individual food and drink items you choose to eat.
The market is located right on the oceanfront in Stone Town and is an easy walking distance from most central hotels. If arriving from outside the city, take a licensed taxi or local daladala to the Stone Town waterfront.
Tips for visiting
- Always confirm the price of your food item with the vendor before it goes on the grill.
- Choose stalls with high turnover where seafood is cooked fresh and sizzling hot in front of you.
- Carry small denominations of Tanzanian Shillings because vendors rarely have change for large bills.
- Politely decline overly persistent touts who try to direct you to specific food stalls for a commission.
- Save room for dessert by trying a sweet Zanzibar pizza stuffed with chocolate spread and banana.
Forodhani Gardens Night Market FAQ
Is the street food at the night market safe to eat?
The food is generally safe, but you should pick stalls that are busy with high turnover. Make sure your seafood skewers are cooked thoroughly on the hot grill right in front of you rather than eaten lukewarm. Sticking to freshly made Zanzibar pizzas and hot grilled items is a great way to avoid stomach issues.
What exactly is a Zanzibar pizza?
A Zanzibar pizza is a unique street food creation made of thin dough filled with meat, onions, cheese, egg, and mayonnaise. The packet is folded into a square and fried until crispy on a buttery griddle. Sweet dessert versions filled with Nutella, mango, and bananas are also extremely popular.
Do vendors accept credit cards?
No, vendors at Forodhani Gardens do not accept credit or debit cards. Cash in Tanzanian Shillings is the standard payment method, so be sure to use an ATM in Stone Town before visiting. While some stalls may accept US dollars, the exchange rates will not be favorable.
Are there vegetarian food options at the market?
Yes, vegetarians will find plenty of tasty options like vegetable Zanzibar pizzas, fried cassava, and roasted maize. You can also enjoy fresh fruit platters, samosas, and freshly pressed sugarcane juice with ginger. Always specify to the vendor that you do not eat meat or fish before they prepare your dish.
More things to do in Zanzibar
Stone Town Neighborhood
Wander through a UNESCO-listed maze of narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, and vibrant bazaars.
Prison Island (Changuu) Nature
Take a wooden boat to meet giant Aldabra tortoises and snorkel the surrounding reef.
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park Nature
Spot rare and endemic red colobus monkeys swinging through lush indigenous mahogany forests.
Spice Farm Tour Activity
Discover how vanilla, cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon are grown and harvested on local farms.
Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling Activity
Explore pristine coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and frequent wild dolphin sightings.
The Rock Restaurant Food
Dine at a world-famous oceanfront eatery perched on an isolated coral outcrop in Michamvi.
Nungwi Beach Landmark
Relax on powder-white sands that allow all-day swimming unhindered by extreme tidal drops.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: klimentgrozdanoski, nike159 on Pixabay.