Jul 16, 2025

An Italian Feast in Zanzibar: Discover the Culinary Jewel of The Rock Restaurant

The Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar.

Zanzibar is a group of Tanzanian islands off the east coast of Tanzania just north of Dar es Salaam. The archipelago is made up of 2 main islands and several smaller ones. Zanzibar has a rich history and is definitely worth a visit for any travelers finding themselves in East Africa.

The Rock Restaurant Zanzibar is on Michamvi beach in Pingwe Village on the island of Unguja, which is commonly referred to as “Zanzibar”.

This restaurant is one of those places that when heard about demands investigation! The pictures alone are inspiring. The menu offers locally sourced seafood prepared Italian style. The reviews, from both restaurant reviewers and travelers, are top shelf! The ocean views look divine!

The descriptions on the Rock’s website and photos from their site and Instagram feed should prompt further investigation, if not a visit!

From their site:

The Rock, founded in 2011 by Andrea Brunetti, Claudio Moras, and Nigel Firman, has become an iconic destination known for its beautiful setting, mouthwatering cuisine, and Italian hospitality. Established on the values of family and friendship, The Rock strives to offer an exceptional dining experience while leaving a positive impact on the local environment and community.

Awaken all your senses in an exotic oasis with a warm Italian welcome. A meal at The Rock is like no other. Come join us in our iconic location that offers a unique dining setting with unparalleled panoramic ocean views. Here you will be treated to locally sourced Zanzibari ingredients that meet Italian cuisine.

Our dedicated team’s genuine hospitality ensures every guest experience is not just memorable but truly extraordinary. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a lover of exotic flavors, or simply seeking an extraordinary culinary experience, we invite you to join us.

Our culinary team expertly prepares each dish with locally sourced ingredients, including seafood harvested from the reefs around the restaurant, fish caught daily by local fishermen, and spices from Zanzibar’s spice farms. We combine traditional Italian cooking techniques with innovative twists to showcase the vibrant flavours and aromas of Zanzibari cuisine. Our commitment to sustainability and community involvement guides everything we do, from kitchen to table, ensuring that every special moment we create aligns with our values.

The Rock Restaurant is without a doubt another bucket list destination.

The Rock Restaurant on its tiny island just off the beach of the island of Zanzibar.

Stairs from a restaurant dropping into the ocean water at low tide.

Zanzibari local in traditional dress standing on the front porch of a restaurant.

Looking through a wineglass at a table at The Rock Restaurant towards the open ocean.

Interior dining room view of The Rock Restaurant.

Spectacular sunset behind a tiny island with a palm tree in the foreground.

Lit up night time view of The Rock with bright moonlight showing through the clouds.

The Rock Restaurant with a spectacular orange sunset in the background.

 

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