The 5th at Upendo House

The 5th is the rooftop bar and restaurant of Upendo House, a boutique hotel on Hurumzi Street in the centre of Stone Town. As the name suggests, it is on the fifth floor, and from the top the views stretch across the old town's rooftops to the Indian Ocean. Upendo Zanzibar, which runs the hotel, describes it as a panoramic restaurant, and it combines a cocktail bar and restaurant with a rooftop infinity pool.

Most people come for sunset. The Rooftop Guide and Fodor's both highlight signature cocktails and food that mixes Indian, Swahili and Mediterranean influences, and Altezza Travel's 2026 guide describes small plates inspired by Indian, Swahili and Arabic cooking. In the evenings DJs often play, and at weekends there is a brunch, which Fodor's and the Rooftop Guide both mention. Drinks are priced at the higher end for Stone Town, so expect hotel-bar prices rather than local bar prices.

Practical details matter here. The rooftop is reached by a steep spiral staircase, which can be awkward for anyone with mobility issues and needs care after a few drinks. Altezza Travel reports an evening dress code that rules out flip-flops and sportswear, so dress smart casual. Fodor's advises booking, particularly for sunset and brunch, and Altezza Travel lists opening from about 08:00 to 23:00 daily. Contact Upendo Zanzibar by phone on +255 777 770 667 or by email to reserve a table.

The 5th suits couples, groups of friends and anyone who wants a stylish drink with a view rather than a beach bar atmosphere. It is a good place to start an evening before dinner in the old town, or to end one with a nightcap. Families with young children may find the stairs and the bar crowd less suitable in the evening, although daytime visits are calmer.

Hurumzi Street is in the middle of Stone Town, close to Emerson on Hurumzi and its Rooftop Tea House, so the two rooftops make an easy pairing for drinks and dinner. Forodhani Gardens and the Old Fort are a short walk towards the sea, and Darajani Market lies inland. Upendo also runs a sister property, Upendo Beach, at Michamvi, if you are splitting your stay between town and beach.