We stayed here for one night in July. The property is well located in the centre of town. The rooftop for breakfast has lovely panoramic views of the city. Decor inside is nice and a little quirky. It’s a one minute walk to a lovely restaurant that is very popular at the Emerson spice hotel. We appreciated this when we arrived after dark and didn’t want to venture too far whilst we got our bearings. The hotel arranged an airport pick up for us and it was reasonably priced, the driver (Sele) drove safely and walked with us the final five minutes through the alley ways to the accommodation

The property is located in a pedestrianised area with no roads - only lanes/alleyways. This was fine for me as I was travelling as a couple. However, I have often travelled alone as a single female and I think that I would have found this a little intimidating if I were travelling alone when it was dark. This wasn’t an issue for me on this trip but I wanted to write this in the review incase any solo travellers are reading this.

Excellent location for everything in Stone Town; lovely room, spacious, cool, comfortable, quiet (you will hear the call to prayer); filtered water, room safe, bathrobe, good wifi; decent breakfast on the breezy upper floor terrace which after 3.30pm is residents' only with tea available. The staff were helpful, friendly and welcoming (particularly Romana). The cafe also does good coffee, juices, food and cakes.

Very little but the pillows weren't the most comfortable and I didn't find a hairdryer in my room. I also ordered 3 meals where the menu made no mention of avocado but there was avocado in the dish (on 2 occasions, alot of avocado). I don't eat avocado.

Zanzibar Coffee House was such a wonderful place to stay! To begin, when I arrived there was a mix-up with my booking, where I had accidentally booked two separate reservations online and paid for one of them, but that room was different to the one I had thought I was reserving. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful and made it possible to switch over to the beautiful Arabica Suite (what I initially thought I had booked). They also made booking other things, like a spice tour and taxi to the airport, very easy. The food was absolutely delicious and the setting for breakfast and lunch on the rooftop is unbeatable. I am also not a coffee drinker normally but their coffee is amazing and I willingly drank it, which is kind of a first! Highly recommend.

What did I like? The exceptional helpfulness of the staff: Ali, Richard and everyone else who helped make my stay memorable and feel like I was at home. The coffee, food and breakfast choices were all excellent. Even if you don't stay here go in for a coffee, pastry or lunch. ZCH is often busy with tourists and even locals because the coffee is amongst the best and the pastries and wraps are delicious. The house dates back to the 19th century and was owned by Sir Tharia Thopan, a well known person on the island during that time. The architecture and ambiance of the house and how well it was restored only add to the over experience.

Lack of a mini-fridge, but that's about it.

Clean and spacious rooms above a coffee shop. Antiques in the rooms added character to the historic building. The rooftop is the star of the show, a wonderful place for breakfast and for an afternoon rest away from busy Stone Town. Breakfast was delicious and Leah, the server, is lovely. Bed was comfortable for 1 person, not sure about 2.

To manage expectations: this is a coffee bar in a historic building with rooms above, no more no less. Rooms are nice and very clean but basic, particularly the bathroom is sufficient but not more. The baristas are the receptionists, pleasantly providing your key and a welcome drink. Good value for money at less than 100 usd per night. I only say these things because the other reviews make it seem as though this is a gem of a luxury boutique hotel, which it is not. It led to a moment of re-setting for me because I was a bit surprised at first by the lack of atmosphere and finishes. If you are looking for a safe, value for money and comfortable room, then excellent choice. If you are looking for something more then you will be surprised.

Everything! The staff were amazing! Very friendly and accommodating. We were greeted with a delicious drink on arrival and the breakfast was 11/10. The lady who served us couldn’t be more helpful, she was a legend! Coffee here is exceptional. We stayed in the arabica room, the architecture is exceptional - former house of a Wazir to a sultan! Very comfortable bed and pillows and a turn down service. The manager organised tours and transport quickly and easily at a reasonable cost. Very happy with our stay and would stay again if ever back in Zanzibar.

Nothing. Just one small note about the adapter - could only manage to borrow it once shortly for our stay as other guests requested to use it.

I loved my stay at Zanzibar Coffee House. It was my second time staying here and it did NOT disappoint. From the welcome drink, to our room décor and the amazing service, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Zanzibar Coffee House is also located in a great area and close to many attractions. If you are staying in Stone Town, this is the best place to stay. From the value, to the rooms and service and rooftop breakfast, it was all so memorable.

Nothing really. There was a bit of confusion during check-in but they were able to find my reservation and make up for it with the welcome drinks and impeccable service.

What did I like about my stay at Zanzibar Coffee House? So much! This place has an incredible, cozy vibe that instantly makes you feel at home. The decor is unique and filled with local character, adding to the charm. The staff were super welcoming and helpful. They went out of their way to ensure I had everything I needed and were always up for a friendly chat. As a coffee lover, I was in heaven. The coffee was top-notch, freshly brewed, and full of flavor—just the perfect way to start the day. Breakfast was also a delightful experience with a variety of options, including fresh fruits, pastries, and, of course, that amazing coffee. The location is perfect, right in the heart of Zanzibar, making it so easy and convenient to explore the town. One of the highlights was the rooftop terrace. The stunning views of the town, especially at sunset, made for a perfect relaxing spot after a day of exploring. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-appointed, ensuring a restful stay. All in all, Zanzibar Coffee House provided an exceptional experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Zanzibar!

That I couldn't stay longer

Wonderful and unique place to stay in Stone Town. The rooms are very comfortable and nicely designed. The location is also perfect – a short walk from the best restaurants and cafes, as well as the ferry terminal. Breakfast is amazing, with the ability to choose specialty coffee (including Zanzibar spiced coffee and cold brew). Staff are very friendly and remember your name, which shows the respect this place has for its guests. The welcome drink is very high quality (and can also be a specialty coffee from the menu). I really enjoyed my time here and would highly recommend this place.

The prices for ancillary services such as tours, transfers and laundry are very high – it is worth buying these things from the actual providers if you need them. For example, the hotel quotes 30 USD for night airport transfer, but you can find this with 15 USD. Same with laundry (which is half price if you go to a laundry service a few minutes away). This is a bit normal for hotels, but just something to keep in mind if it's your first time in Zanzibar.

We loved the position and vibe of the whole place.The building was very much kept in character with the original architecture respectfully kept throughout. Our room was fantastic ,again felt like it was very much ole world Stone Town with furnishing and layout. Rooftop choice for breakfast was highlight of each morning. Eating a delicious breakfast while sitting gazing over the rooftops of fascinating Stone town. Coffee shop was great. Coffee and snacks all delicious. Service throughout excellent.

All good no complaints.