Andreas Viestad is a Norwegian food columnist and TV chef known for his passion for food and culinary exploration.
5
This unique property is ideally located for exploring Stone Town. It is currently in the final stages of a sensitive refurbishment and expansion to include spa services. Remarkably, the work has not impacted the hotel's distinctive charm; it has been performed carefully to retain the gorgeous decor and the meandering staircases that branch out from the ground floor.
The hotel staff and service were exceptional throughout our stay. We chose the recently renovated Pavilion suite, which offered both a balcony and a roof terrace—perfect for our needs. Housekeeping maintained the room flawlessly, and we particularly appreciated the thoughtful nightly turndown service. While exploring Stone Town, it was wonderful having such a tranquil, quiet oasis to return to, as the daytime construction was cleverly planned to minimize any guest disruption.
A true highlight of our stay was dining at the Emerson on Hurumzi Tea House Restaurant. The rooftop sunset dining experience offered breathtaking, panoramic views of the city. The evening was made incredibly special by live traditional music and an authentic atmosphere. We thoroughly enjoyed the delicious food, and despite my dodgy knees I found myself able to sit comfortably on the traditional floor cushions provided.
Emerson perfectly balances local heritage with excellent hospitality, making it a highly recommended retreat in Zanzibar.
We did the Swahili Rooftop dinner with traditional Zanzibar music. The only thing that spoiled a great experience was the very long wait between set menu courses whilst seated on Majlis style floor seating.
Only went for the rooftop dinner. Food came out cold but really the biggest issue was that I asked if one bowl had meat in it and the waiter scolded me for not telling him I was vegetarian. Which was not the question I was asking. Made me feel like shit and ruined my dinner. I tried to mention to him after dinner how I felt and he argued with me again that I should have told him I was vegetarian (I am not). Restaurant is overhyped.
The service and the experience of the teahouse was impeccable. I admit that I had better Zanzibari food elsewhere on the island but the beautiful experience of the live music, listening to the calls to prayer, and a stunning sunset made for a wonderful evening.
Visited the rooftop restaurant for lunch. Beware as it is a very steep clim up 10 staircases. On arrival no offer of cool drink and told to take off shoes on a small step while trying to catch breath.
Food came quickly but was covered with flying midges. We couldn’t eat it and we think it had been sitting for a while as was quite dry and not food safe warm.
Waiter only spoke to my husband as clearly women incapable of ordering or paying.
All in all a weird and slightly uncomfortable experience. Views are nice though.
