ZaVa restaurant — Restaurant in Unguja

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Nungwi Beach, Zava Restaurant stands out as a beacon of culinary excellence amidst the stunning coastal landscape of Zanzibar. As a solo traveler seeking both tranquility and gastronomic delights, my experience at Zava was nothing short of exceptional.

From the moment I stepped into the restaurant, I was captivated by its pristine and inviting ambiance. The neat and hygienic environment immediately put me at ease, assuring me of a memorable dining experience ahead. What truly set Zava apart, however, was its unparalleled view of the sea. Sitting by the window, I was treated to panoramic vistas of the turquoise waters stretching as far as the eye could see, providing a serene backdrop to my meal.

The menu at Zava boasted an enticing array of culinary delights, blending local flavors with international cuisine. From freshly caught seafood to tantalizing meat dishes, there was something to please every palate. I opted for the catch of the day, and I was not disappointed. The dish arrived promptly, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Each bite was a revelation, showcasing the chef's skillful execution and dedication to quality.

What truly impressed me was the impeccable service at Zava. Despite dining alone, I felt warmly welcomed by the attentive staff who catered to my every need with grace and efficiency. Whether offering recommendations or ensuring my glass was never empty, their hospitality elevated my dining experience to new heights.

As I savored my meal, I couldn't help but appreciate the thoughtfulness that went into every aspect of Zava Restaurant. From its commitment to hygiene to its dedication to providing a tranquil dining environment, every detail was carefully curated to ensure guest satisfaction. It was evident that Zava went above and beyond to create a haven for travelers like myself, where good food and breathtaking views converge to create unforgettable memories.

In conclusion, my experience at Zava Restaurant was nothing short of sublime. As a solo traveler seeking solace and culinary delights, I found everything I could have hoped for and more at this hidden gem in Nungwi. Whether you're indulging in a leisurely meal or simply savoring the beauty of the sea, Zava Restaurant is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the shores...

I absolutely love the restaurant at our hotel! The staff is incredibly friendly and efficient, and they mix a bit of English and Swahili, which adds a lovely local touch without any language barrier. The view is stunning, right on Nungwi Beach with its beautiful white sands and clear blue waters. Occasionally, there’s some seaweed, but that’s just nature at work. It’s also a perfect sunset spot!

The food is consistently delicious; we’ve tried almost everything on the menu and have never been disappointed. Everything is beautifully presented and super fresh. Plus, there are adorable cats that won’t harm a fly and a sleepy dog that just adds to the charm.

The decor is simple but very beachy and cozy, with all the essentials like fans, power outlets, and even a dartboard. They also have a cocktail happy hour from 5 to 7 PM, where you get a free cocktail if you buy two. The cocktails are nicely strong (not watery like you can get at some touristy places), and the juices are fresh and tasty.

The breakfast is also fantastic with a nice variety of options. They have pancakes, oatmeal, a selection of egg dishes, etc. The portions are just right, and everything is super tasty. Overall, there’s really nothing to complain about. It’s...

Don't let the old good reviews deceive you. Maybe there used to be a great chef and good service, but as of today, none of that exists.

We ordered a simple meal so we could eat and run elsewhere (rice and beef, fish fingers and tuna fillet). It took 1 hour to get ready and that was at non-peak hours.

THE FOOD: As you can see in the photo, my meat was chewy. More chewy than bubble gum. Was given a table knife to try and cut it up and that ended as well as you can imagine. 🤦🏾‍♂️ the rest of the dishes are nothing to write home about.

I travelled with my uncle (in the pic) who is a chef and also works his small restaurant but he was underwhelmed by what he had. He couldn't fathom how they messed up fish fingers.

THE JUICE: Let me save you both money and time. Just order something already bottled and made elsewhere. Fresh juice is basically water with a flavoring. Bland as they come. Asked for cocktail and got mango only 🤦🏾‍♂️

If you're into tourist traps, this is the place to go. But if you happen to go to Nungwi and also want a good meal...there are literally hundreds of other options along the beach and even slightly behind it. Choose any of them and I'd bet they will be better than what is...