One of the highlights of a shopping expedition to Mlimani City must be a visit to the Zanzibar Café that has become a popular meeting point, lunch stop and pre-cinema hang-out since opening in 2014. “We simply aim to offer great coffee!” says manager Manuel Siegrist who manages a friendly team that expertly uses their own Rift Valley coffee blend of Arabica from Mbeya and Robusta from Bukoba. (*Sep 2016: this business is presently closed)The café’s proprietor is the owner of the Utengule Coffee Estate and Zanzibar Coffee Company that produce the celebrated Rift Valley coffee products.
The respected enterprise even roasts its beans daily at their own facility in Dar es Salaam. There are an impressive 12 coffee options at the cafe. They include some surprises like the indulgent Affogato which combines a shot of espresso and a generous serving of vanilla ice cream in a deep bowl. We were impressed that our friendly waitress Siti actually asked how many shots we would like for the cappuccinos that were frothy and smooth. The café, however, offers so much more than coffee, not least a fine selection of teas. The café has perfected its Masala tea with a really delicious infusion of fresh ginger, fresh lemon grass, cinnamon and cardamom. There also is a super selection of fresh juices, lassies and smoothies. I had a choice of having my mango and passion smoothie (300ml) with ice cream or yogurt. For breakfast you can feast on waffles, muesli and crepes.
Lunch options include sandwiches, salads and other savoury offerings. My selection of a savoury pancake filled with a creamy mix of mozzarella and spinach was very tasty. The jumbo-sized, freshly-made chapati with a choice of fillings is especially popular with hungry shoppers.
The highlight of the menu, however, is the indulgent selection of cakes, tarts and muffins made by the café. The cappuccino mousse tart was a substantial slice of sweet pastry topped with a deep layer of coffee-rich topping. I also enjoyed the tangy lime tart that went perfectly with my refreshing spiced tea.
Look out for the next addition to their sweet treats: brightly-coloured and perfectly-baked macaroons made with cashewnut meal. The café, which opens every day, seats 30 patrons inside on small tables and bench-style seating and 10 outside under shading. It has free wi-fi access via Raha. This coffee heaven offers a great value, café menu in an inviting setting but it does also have a take-away service. My preference, however, would be to sit and relax over a fine brew in this chilled atmosphere with family or friends.
