Shanga Restaurant Paje — Restaurant in Unguja

Dear Shanga Team,

I am writing to express my utmost satisfaction with my recent dining experience at your esteemed beach restaurant on 23/06/2024 The visit was nothing short of exceptional, and I felt compelled to share my feedback in detail.

Ambiance and Setting: From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the breathtaking view of the ocean. The outdoor seating arrangement was perfectly positioned to provide an unobstructed view of the beach, enhancing the overall dining experience. The ambient lighting, coupled with the soothing sound of the waves, created a tranquil and inviting atmosphere. The decor was tasteful and complemented the natural beauty of the surroundings, making it a picturesque setting for a memorable meal.

Service: The service was exemplary from start to finish. The staff were attentive, friendly, and displayed a genuine interest in ensuring that we had an enjoyable experience. Our server, was particularly outstanding. They were knowledgeable about the menu, provided excellent recommendations, and anticipated our needs without being intrusive. Their professionalism and warm demeanor greatly contributed to the overall positive experience.

Food and Beverage: The culinary offerings were truly outstanding. The menu featured a diverse selection of dishes that catered to various tastes, and each item we ordered was beautifully presented and delicious. The freshness of the seafood was particularly noteworthy, and it was evident that high-quality ingredients were used. The calamari in particular, was a highlight and exceeded my expectations in both flavor and presentation.

The drinks menu was equally impressive, with a wide range of options including expertly crafted cocktails. That tender lamb meat was a delightful blend of flavors and was the perfect complement to our meal. The attention to detail in both the food and beverages was apparent and greatly appreciated.

Cleanliness and Safety: In addition to the excellent food and service, I was also impressed by the cleanliness and adherence to safety protocols. The tables and seating areas were well-maintained, and I noticed the staff regularly sanitizing high-touch areas. This attention to hygiene and safety provided peace of mind and allowed us to relax and fully enjoy our dining experience.

Overall Experience: In summary, my experience at Shanga was nothing short of spectacular. The combination of the stunning location, impeccable service, and exquisite food made for an unforgettable evening. I will certainly be recommending your restaurant to friends and family and look forward to returning in the near future.

Thank you for providing such a wonderful dining experience. Please extend my gratitude to the entire team for their hard work and dedication.

Warm regards,

ZUWENA...

Disappointing Experience - Would Not Recommend

I had high hopes for Shanga Paje based on its reputation, but our visit turned out to be one of the most disappointing dining experiences I’ve had, especially for what was meant to be a special occasion.

We had a reservation for a birthday dinner, which had been confirmed multiple times—both by our host and personally over the phone. I even ensured they would prepare a special dessert for my friend’s celebration. Despite all this effort, when we arrived, the staff seemed completely unprepared and confused about where to seat us or what arrangements had been made.

We were seated upstairs, where we were initially the only group. Two other parties arrived later, including a group of five Americans without a reservation. To our disbelief, those tables were served drinks and mains long before we received anything at all. It was incredibly frustrating to sit there, waiting, while others who arrived much later were attended to promptly.

We ordered a bottle of prosecco, but the service was appalling. The staff poured our glasses once and never returned to refill them. At one point, they even took the bottle away without checking if we needed more. We were also never offered a drinks menu to order additional beverages—a basic courtesy we expected but did not receive.

Our waitress’s demeanor was far from professional. She appeared aloof, confused, and overwhelmed, barely able to communicate with us due to the language barrier. At a highly ranked establishment like this, we expected far better service and staff who could manage customer interactions smoothly.

The final straw came with the dessert order, which they got completely wrong. At that point, we were so fed up that we just wanted to finish and leave. The waitress took the incorrect dessert away and assured us it wouldn’t be charged, but it did little to salvage an already dismal evening.

This was supposed to be a memorable birthday celebration, yet the lack of attention to detail, poor service, and favoritism left a very sour taste. As three young African tourists, it was hard not to notice subtle xenophobic undertones—white and American guests were clearly prioritized and treated far better.

Overall, the experience was abysmal, and I would not recommend Shanga Paje to anyone looking for a special or enjoyable dining experience. This restaurant needs to seriously reevaluate its service standards and attitudes toward its...

Shanga Zanzibar on Paje Beach is an absolute gem! Nestled along the pristine shores of Zanzibar's most iconic beach, this place offers the perfect blend of laid-back vibes, stunning scenery, and an unforgettable culinary experience. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the warm sea breeze, crystal-clear waters, and an atmosphere that immediately soothes the soul.

The food at Shanga is nothing short of spectacular. Freshly sourced ingredients, expertly prepared, and infused with the rich flavors of Zanzibar make every meal here a celebration of the senses. Whether you're savoring the catch of the day, delicately grilled to perfection, or indulging in mouthwatering local dishes packed with exotic spices, Shanga takes you on a culinary journey like no other. Every bite is a burst of flavor, perfectly matched to the tropical paradise around you.

The ambiance is pure magic. With the beach just steps away, and the sound of the waves creating a calming backdrop, Shanga is the ideal spot to unwind. The space is beautifully designed to capture the essence of Zanzibar's natural beauty, with comfortable, stylish seating that invites you to linger long after your meal is done.

What truly sets Shanga apart, though, is the people. The staff are not just friendly—they are like old friends, welcoming you with open arms and genuine smiles. Their warmth and attention to detail make your experience feel personal and unforgettable.

Whether you're stopping by for a beachside breakfast, a romantic dinner at sunset, or simply to soak up the island’s beauty with a drink in hand, Shanga Zanzibar is pure bliss. It’s not just a meal, it's an experience you’ll want to relive again and again. Five stars isn’t enough—this place is...