Why the south of the island for a sunset dinner
Zanzibar is an island, but not all its coasts are equal when the sun goes down. The east coast, at Paje and Jambiani, faces the open sea but turns its back on the sunset: the sun sets behind the land, and the beaches lose their light early. The west coast offers the real sunset, but it is also the busiest, with Stone Town and the Nungwi hotels.
The southern tip, around Mtende and Makunduchi, is where the coast curves. From the high ground you keep the sea horizon to the very end, with nobody in front of you. It is a small point of geography, but it is what decides the quality of an evening.
What we serve
The Monkey Mountain Lodge romantic dinner takes place away from the dining room, at a table laid for two. It includes:
- A cocktail served as the sun goes down
- A starter, a main course and a dessert cooked that same day
- Coffee or tea
- A bottle for the table: prosecco, chardonnay or red wine, your choice
The price is 80 US dollars per person. A bottle of champagne can replace the included bottle, for an extra 45 dollars.
<b>Evenings only, by reservation.</b> We do not serve this dinner on demand: the chef prepares the menu during the afternoon, from whatever the boats brought in that morning.
The catch of the day, and why it changes
Mtende is a fishing village. The boats go out at night and come back in the morning, and what they bring depends on the season, the wind and the tide. That is why the restaurant menu says "catch of the day" rather than naming a species: we do not promise what we cannot guarantee.
In practice, that means two dinners in the same place two weeks apart will not be alike. For many of our guests, that is precisely the point.
Booking
Booking and enquiries are handled on WhatsApp only, on +33 6 16 44 20 83. Give us the date you want, the number of people, and any dietary requirements. We confirm the same day and agree the time together.
If you are looking for a full stay instead, our two-night bungalow offer includes this dinner and breakfast, at 180 US dollars per person.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be staying at the lodge to book the dinner?
No. The romantic dinner is open to passing visitors as well as lodge guests. It is booked on WhatsApp, on +33 6 16 44 20 83.
How far in advance should I book?
Let us know at least the day before. The chef buys fish when the boats come back and prepares the menu during the afternoon: without notice, the dinner cannot be done properly.
What time does the dinner take place?
Service starts with the cocktail, at the hour the light changes. At this latitude the sun sets between 6 pm and 6.45 pm all year round, with very little seasonal variation. We agree the exact time with you the day before.
Can the menu be adapted?
Yes. Allergies, vegetarian or vegan diet, a dish you dislike: tell us when you book, everything is cooked on site.