The Island Pongwe Voted Tanzania’s Boutique Restaurant of the Year

Zanzibar, Nov 2025

The Island Pongwe by The Cocoon Collection has just been voted “Boutique Restaurant of the Year – Tanzania” at the Travel & Hospitality Awards. 

The ultra exclusive, adults-only eco-resort has been recognized repeatedly as the “Best Boutique Hotel in Zanzibar” since its launch in February 2018, standing out for its intimate and private atmosphere, with just six rooms and a gourmet restaurant, so this recognition of its culinary offering is a wonderful new accolade.

The Travel & Hospitality Awards jury undergoes a rigorous process of evaluation, taking into consideration the highest gastronomic standards, consistency in the quality of service, exemplary guest satisfaction and of course the uniqueness of the culinary experience. The Island Pongwe has excelled not only for its culinary creations, but for its attention to detail, creativity and hospitality that characterizes every moment spent at the resort.

A distinctive element of The Island Pongwe's identity is its sustainable gastronomic philosophy, that showcases Zanzibar’s unique location, history and culture whilst reducing its environmental impact and uplifting the local community. The menus incorporate fresh produce and seasonal ingredients, thereby supporting local suppliers, fishermen and small agricultural businesses on the island. This authentic, zero-mile approach drives the menu wherever possible, ensuring that guests and diners can enjoy only the best freshly caught fish and seafood, Zanzibar spices and locally grown fruit and vegetables for that real “sense of place”.

"We are extremely proud of this award which recognises the passion and expertise of our team as well as our vision of authentic, sustainable, and refined hospitality. The Island Pongwe represents the essence of exclusivity: an adults-only island where pristine nature meets excellent cuisine, where local ingredients are celebrated, and enjoyed with a highly personalized service. This award encourages us further to continue offering our guests a one-of-a-kind experience." - Attilio Azzola, Founder and Corporate Sales Manager of The Cocoon Collection.

With this prestigious victory, The Island Pongwe confirms its unique appeal for discerning travellers in search of tranquillity, refinement, authenticity and fabulous food, in one of the most fascinating, exclusive island destinations in the Indian Ocean.