• Tel: +255 777 422443
  • gm@jafferjihouse.net
5A2CB287-BE43-4D11-8CE7-D4CA8D828BA7
5FD11578-7D0A-4C9B-A6E0-C2F2067E4DAF
C8A8D1B1-8CC3-41F0-A20E-25300A215732
EC06A533-3311-4B6B-B7A4-8E0B39EF6C83
823940A7-45BB-4C65-B375-CC08BDCFD0F1

 

Bohra

KITCHEN – ROOF TOP EXPERIENCE

Experience the legacy of authentic Bohra Kitchen at the panoramic rooftop of Jafferji House.

The Bohra Kitchen is a captivating blend of Arabic, Swahili, Middle Eastern, and Gujarati culinary traditions, expertly intertwined to create a harmonious fusion of flavors. Rooted in the rich heritage of these diverse cultures, Bohra Kitchen pays homage to time-honored recipes, authentic techniques, and exquisite ingredients. The Dawoodi Bohras originated in Yemen and are now widely spread across the globe. The early settlement of Bohras in the Indian city of Surat has led to major Gujarati influences in the cuisine. Around 200 years ago, they came to Zanzibar in dhows with the monsoon winds, and their food and culinary traditions continue till now.

The Bohra Kitchen brings you a carefully curated selection of this exclusive, recherché cuisine. The Bohra Kitchen was created by Javed Jafferji, his wife Kulsum Jafferji, and Zarina Jafferji. Javed and Kulsum serve as the directors of Jafferji House, a luxury boutique hotel. Their shared passion for the conservation, nature, and history of the island inspired them to restore their ancestral home and transform it into a stunning boutique hotel. Zarina has a passion for promoting Bohra food and preserving lost traditions in the face of modern and fast food. Her travels have made her an expert in traditional and fusion food, and her cooking and teaching inspire others. She is also the author of the cookery book, Taste of Zanzibar, which is published in various languages.

The meal in Bohra cuisine is served on a large, round steel plate called Thaal, which can accommodate eight people. The round shape of the Thaal holds significance too, as each person who sits around it is equidistant from the food that is placed in the centre. Eating with one’s hands from a single plate is similarly symbolic of kinship and community. The tradition continues and is a part of this when in Zanzibar.

Every Bohra meal commences with a time-honored ritual of taking a grain of salt, believed to cleanse the palate and bestow various health benefits. The Bohra community’s culinary traditions differ from the conventional norm in that they begin with desserts rather than conclude with them. Dessert is usually followed by a grand savoury dish such as almond chicken, and the initial rounds of food are served with an alternation of sweet and savoury dishes. The Bohra meal culminates in an elaborate rice dish, such as Biryani or another traditional rice preparation. Finally, a pinch of salt and a cool mouth freshener are served to conclude the meal on a light note.

At the Jafferji House Rooftop in the heart of Zanzibar Stone Town, you can eat home-cooked Bohra Food from a Thaal and experience unique tastes and fusion flavours. You can also take in the stunning views of the Old Fort and the Anglican Church with a 360-degree panoramic view of Stone Town.

Bohras believe in the saying, “Many hands are a blessing,” which encourages eating in company. The Thaal is a symbol of unity, equality, and sharing, and it is considered more than just authentic dishes; it is a gastronomical odyssey into the heritage and traditions of a unique culture. All are encouraged to partake in this tradition.

Book Your Favorite Slot

How to Book?

Use the search box above, enter your preferred date and number of passengers (both can be changed once you are inside.)
Once inside you can choose your preferred experience and add on any Transfers (optional). For an additional fee we offer optional transfers to and from , where our trips start and finish. Pay for everything all in one transaction.

Efficient, Seamless & Protected Checkout Process

Experience the convenience of instant confirmations and receive vouchers promptly via email. Our dedicated customer support team is available to assist you, ensuring a hassle-free experience throughout. Rest easy knowing that our security measures are globally recognized and accredited.

To get started, simply indicate your preferred date and the number of individuals for whom you’d like to make a reservation.

Moreover, if you are travelling from outside Zanzibar Town, take advantage of our exclusive rates for transfers from any part of Zanzibar to the hotel.

Once you’ve made your selection, enjoy the convenience of booking and completing your payment for the transfer in a single transaction.

Payments are processed by Direct Pay Online, Africa’s leading payment provider.

Book Now