Mercury’s

Mercury's is a casual bar and restaurant on Mizingani Road, on the Stone Town seafront near the Old Fort and the ferry port. It is named after Freddie Mercury, who was born in Stone Town, and the theme runs through the decoration. The modest street entrance gives little away, but at the back an open-air wooden deck looks straight out over the Indian Ocean, which is what keeps people coming back.

Fodor's describes it as a popular spot for a drink before or after catching the ferry, and with the harbour so close it is a practical place to wait for a boat. The menu is straightforward. Altezza Travel's 2026 guide lists fresh fish, soups, sandwiches, pizzas and fajitas, with vegetarian-friendly options, and Fodor's mentions pizzas, burgers and coffee. Prices are moderate for the waterfront, and the atmosphere is relaxed rather than smart.

Music is part of the appeal. Altezza Travel mentions live music, and Fodor's notes live bands at weekends, which makes Friday and Saturday evenings the busiest and liveliest times. Sunset is the best time to grab a table on the deck; later in the evening it becomes more of a bar. Daytime is quieter, with coffee and lunch served to people passing along the waterfront between the port and the Old Fort, and it makes a useful rest stop during a sightseeing walk. Altezza Travel lists opening hours from about 09:00 to midnight daily, but check locally, especially in the low season.

Mercury's suits backpackers, groups of friends and anyone wanting an informal beer or cocktail by the water without rooftop prices. It works for a family lunch too, as the menu has simple options such as pizzas. It is not the place for a quiet, polished dinner on a band night. Keep an eye on bags on the deck, as you would anywhere busy, and bring insect repellent for evenings by the sea.

The location makes it easy to fit into a waterfront walk. The Old Fort, Forodhani Gardens and the House of Wonders are a short stroll along Mizingani Road, and the Old Dispensary is nearby. Fans of Queen can pair a drink here with a visit to the Freddie Mercury Museum in Shangani, which is a walk away along the seafront.