How To Get To The Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar?

Located on the beach in Michamvi Pingwe, The Rock was conveniently within a 10-minute walking distance from our accommodation at the Baladin Beach Hotel. For those staying farther away, taxis are a great option since the restaurant is well-known across the island.

Making a Reservation at the Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar

Due to its limited seating and high demand, making a reservation in advance is crucial. The online booking process was quick and easy, ensuring we wouldn't be disappointed on our planned visit day.

Pro Tip: For groups of six or more, a non-refundable deposit is required, which will be deducted from your bill.

The restaurant has specific seating times: 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm for lunch, and 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm for dinner. Each reservation includes a two-hour timeslot, which is plenty of time to enjoy your meal and the stunning views.

Check the Time of the Tides in Zanzibar Before Visiting the Rock Restaurant

To get the best photos of The Rock looking like it’s floating in the ocean, it’s essential to check the tide schedule for your visit day. Zanzibar experiences significant tidal fluctuations, and depending on the time of day, the tide can recede, leaving the beach nearly dry.

We booked the 12:00 pm slot, knowing the tide would be going out when we arrived. This allowed us to take the complimentary boat to the restaurant and walk back to shore as the tide receded—giving us the best of both worlds.

Insider Tip: Wear appropriate footwear, as you will step into the water when getting off the boat.

History of The Rock Restaurant

The Rock Restaurant has an intriguing history that adds to its charm. Originally a fisherman’s house, it was transformed into a restaurant in 2009 by three Italian entrepreneurs. Their initiative was warmly welcomed by the local community due to their significant investments in local development, including building a school, creating a swimming project, and setting up a foundation for the Masai community.

Dining at The Rock Restaurant

Upon arrival, we were seated at a cozy table inside with open views of the ocean. There is also seating on the side patios. We placed our order after reviewing the menu, which offers a variety of dishes including pastas, seafood, chicken, and beef. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available, making it easy to share your experience in real-time.

We opted for the grilled lobster and scarabe potatoes. The lobster was abundant and the potatoes were insanely delicious. It was a meal I would love to have again.

Pricing at The Rock Restaurant

Dining at The Rock comes with a premium price tag, reflective of its unique location and experience. While more expensive than other island eateries, we felt it was worth it for the exceptional setting and ambiance.

After the Meal

After lunch, we moved to the patio to enjoy our drinks and take in the breathtaking view. The scenery from this vantage point is truly spectacular, especially on a bright, sunny day when you can see along the coast for miles.

In our global travels, few places have offered the unique combination of stunning location, rich history, and friendly service that The Rock Restaurant does. While the food was excellent, it’s the overall experience that makes it a must-visit spot. If you find yourself in Zanzibar, don't miss the opportunity to dine at The Rock Restaurant—it's an experience you’ll cherish long after your trip.