al Casbah — Restaurant in Unguja

What a very special treat coming to this restaurant! It was our first time experiencing the flavors of Algerian cuisine.

As we were looking for something different to noshe on in Zanzibar, we were approached by the owner, Cherif, to come in and try his restaurant. As he explained and described his dishes, I could hear the passion that this individual has for his cuisine. He is proud and touts that his restaurant has no palm oil, additives, and nothing artificial in his foods. Every ingredient is fresh and never frozen.

We started with the Sekhsou Ma'dnous salad. It is like tabouleh but with gentle and delicate textures. Highly recommend 👌. Then we had to try the Algerian Bourek. These little pastry pockets filled with potatoes and your choice of meat were freshly made and simply amazing. We also enjoyed a traditional Algerian soup called Sharve Thazgourt with lamb. I can't explain how savory and deep flavored this was. It was just very wonderful. Our main entrees were the Couscous Lovers with lamb and the Lamb Tajeen. I need to point out that there was not one hint of "gaminess" in any of the lamb dishes. He roasts the lamb for hours. The lamb is locally sourced from Arusha.

We also tried traditional Algerian tea, both hot and cold. The black tea, fresh mint, and herbs were tantalizing to my taste buds. I am a tea lover, and this hit all of my favorite tea-fushions. I enjoyed my tea cold without the sweetness. They pour the tea table-side and pour it back into the pot three times to ensure that all the ingredients are mixed thoroughly and aerated.

The owner, Cherif, is quite multi-faceted. He speaks at least 6 different languages and has a wonderful story to tell about his international experiences. I noticed that the clientele was not only local but also many Europeans as well.

I hope that your experience at al Casbah will be as rememberable as our was. ...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at an Algerian restaurant in Zanzibar, and I must say that it was one of the most delightful culinary experiences I have ever had. Not only was the food absolutely delicious, but the owner of the restaurant was incredibly helpful and welcoming, making the entire experience truly unforgettable.

As soon as we walked in, we were greeted with a warm smile and a friendly welcome from the owner, who immediately made us feel at home. He went above and beyond to make sure that we were comfortable and had everything we needed, including providing excellent recommendations on what to order and explaining the different dishes and flavors.

The food itself was nothing short of spectacular. From the savory and perfectly seasoned lamb tagine to the mouthwatering couscous, every dish was expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The bread, baked fresh in-house, was a particular standout and paired perfectly with the various dips and spreads.

But what truly sets this restaurant apart is the incredible hospitality of the owner. He was so attentive to our needs, taking the time to make sure we were enjoying every aspect of our meal and offering additional recommendations based on our tastes and preferences. He was more than happy to answer any questions we had about the dishes or the culture of Algeria, and he even offered to share some recipes with us!

Overall, I cannot recommend this Algerian restaurant in Zanzibar highly enough. The food is absolutely delicious, the atmosphere is welcoming and cozy, and the owner is an absolute gem. If you are looking for a unique and memorable dining experience, look no further than this incredible...

From the moment I stepped through the door, at Al-Casbah I was enveloped in the rich aromas awaiting me. The menu showcased a remarkable variety of traditional Algerian dishes, each meal made with attention to authenticity and flavor. The flavors in every bite was a testament to the chef's dedication to preserving the essence of Algerian cuisine and keeping everything healthy and nutricio The highlight of the experience, beyond the incredible food, was undoubtedly the owner's warm and genuine hospitality. From sharing the history and stories behind the dishes to ensuring that each patron felt like an honored guest, the owner's passion for both the cuisine and the community was palpable. Their willingness to engage in conversation and answer questions about the dishes added an extra layer of enjoyment to the meal. The meal itself was a symphony of great taste and natural flavours. The Lamb Tagine was a standout for me , boasting tender meat, fragrant vegetables, and a blend of spices that transported me straight to the streets of Algeria which I am now yet to visit. In an era where true hospitality can sometimes be hard to find, Al-Casbah stands out for its warmth and authenticity. The combination of flavors, genuine care from the owner, and the cozy atmosphere make this place a must-visit, this gem will leave a mark on your taste buds...