Emerson Spice

The hotel's rooftop dining experience, offering stunning sunset views over Stone Town, stands out as its signature feature, consistently captivating guests. This historic property, a beautifully restored merchant's house, immerses visitors in an authentic Zanzibari atmosphere, with each of its unique, individually designed rooms serving as a work of art. Its central location in the heart of Stone Town provides unparalleled access to local culture and attractions, while the exceptional staff service ensures a welcoming and attentive stay. The hotel is an ideal fit for history enthusiasts, foodies, couples seeking a romantic getaway, culture seekers eager to explore, and adventure seekers ready to navigate the vibrant alleyways. To enhance your visit, be sure to book the popular rooftop dinner well in advance, and prepare for the charming challenge of navigating many stairs, as the hotel does not have an elevator.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's most celebrated feature is its collection of unique, individually designed rooms, each a distinct masterpiece with its own character and theme, often named after historical figures or operas. Many of these rooms boast inviting private balconies or terraces, with some offering the truly distinctive experience of an outdoor bath and shower. Guests consistently appreciate the effective air conditioning and fans provided in each room, ensuring comfort even in the warm climate. Essential amenities such as mosquito nets, ample fresh drinking water in glass bottles, and locally made soaps and shampoos are thoughtfully provided. While the hotel meticulously preserves its historic charm, some guests noted that the bathrooms can feel antique, with occasional reports of inconsistent water pressure or temporary interruptions in water supply. It is important for prospective guests to be aware that the hotel does not have an elevator, requiring navigation of many steep stairs throughout the property to access rooms and facilities.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, praising their spaciousness and beautiful decor. The beds are generally described as very comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep, though a few guests found them to be quite firm. The unique design of each room, with its antique furnishings and artistic touches, contributes to a captivating atmosphere. However, some reviews mention minor issues with upkeep, such as stained cushions or crumbling plaster, which can detract from the overall impression for some. Noise can be a factor, with guests reporting street noise and the sound of the call to prayer from nearby mosques, especially in front-facing rooms, which might impact light sleepers. While the air conditioning is generally effective, some isolated reports of it being non-functional or leaking were noted.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's rooftop restaurant is consistently lauded as a standout feature, offering an exquisite 5-course tasting menu primarily focused on fresh seafood and local spices. Guests rave about the inventive and delicious food, often describing it as a "culinary delight" with beautiful views of Stone Town, especially at sunset. Breakfast, also served on the rooftop, receives high praise for its generous portions, fresh fruit, spiced coffee, and made-to-order egg dishes. The Secret Garden restaurant provides an alternative dining experience with a pleasant atmosphere, offering a variety of Tanzanian dishes, including highly recommended beef and chicken options, sometimes accompanied by live music. While the rooftop dinner is overwhelmingly positive, a few guests found the food to be merely "okay" or "average" for the price, and some cocktails were noted as being unexceptional.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location directly in the heart of Stone Town, making it an unparalleled base for exploring the city entirely on foot. Guests consistently praise its proximity to major attractions, including the bustling Darajani market, various historic sites, and the picturesque waterfront, all conveniently within easy walking distance. This prime position allows for immediate immersion into the vibrant local life and culture. Due to the intricate network of narrow, labyrinthine alleyways characteristic of the old town, vehicles cannot access the hotel directly. Instead, guests are typically dropped off a short walk away, where hotel staff are readily available to provide efficient luggage transport to the hotel entrance. This unique accessibility, while requiring a brief walk, significantly enhances the authentic Stone Town experience.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives glowing reviews for their exceptional friendliness, attentiveness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to "go above and beyond," assisting with everything from arranging excursions and transportation to personally guiding guests through the winding streets. The team is praised for their impeccable service, including efficient luggage assistance up the hotel's many stairs and accommodating specific requests, such as dietary restrictions for meals. The check-in process is described as prompt and welcoming, setting a positive tone for the stay. Overall, the staff's dedication to ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience is a recurring theme, though isolated instances of miscommunication regarding room changes or billing clarity were mentioned.

Additional Information
The hotel is housed within a beautifully restored historic merchant's house, dating back to the 1860s, offering guests a truly unique glimpse into Zanzibar's rich heritage and past. Each of the hotel's limited number of rooms is individually designed with distinct themes and artistic touches, creating a captivating and memorable atmosphere that guests often liken to stepping into a museum or a period film set. Guests should be aware that the hotel's commitment to preserving its historic architecture means there is no elevator, requiring navigation of numerous steep stairs to access rooms and the popular rooftop areas. The hotel is also noted for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, actively organizing excursions that promote environmental awareness and cultural understanding, fostering a deeper connection with the local area. While the hotel provides an authentic experience, some guests mentioned the absence of an in-room safe, with valuables needing to be secured at the reception.