Emerson on Hurumzi

This a tourist ‘attraction’ and we never have high expectations of such an occasion. Disappointedly, this proved to be the case – we always live in hope, of course, that our expectations will be exceeded. The one exception here are the staff who were amazing – friendly, polite, always smiling and courteous. Unfortunately, their excellent qualities were not backed up by the kitchen and the entertainment (band and singer). The singer got off to a bad start by suggesting that she would welcome tips – this was just tacky. So to ‘the dinner celebrating the pleasure of Zanzibar cuisine fused with oriental Persian and Omani influences’. The starter of 4 tiny spinach fishcakes was dry. Arabian flat bread was OK. The remaining dishes were presented in a ‘thali-style’ - all on one large tray - were also disappointing. A small bowl of aubergine, 2 small pieces of fish which were also dry. The pumpkin tagine was also presented in a small bowl but was OK. The goat curry was a stew and was also presented in a small bowl. It lacked any semblance of spices. The rice was a hilite as was the ginger tea which was delicious. We felt so sorry for the staff serving up this ensemble. Good view of the town.

Amazing view and hospitality. Drinks good. Food...not worth eating really. Music...ok. I visited a couple of times before 5 plus years ago. I think food quality has declined, but the ambiance and scenic vista at sunset make this still worth the trip. I think it would be too hot at lunch You have to be able to do several flights of stairs

We stayed at Amber/ Green room + small kitchen four weeks october/november 2024. Our stay was wonderful and we really enjoyed our stay! The atmosphere is very nice and Emerson Hurumzi is one of the best hotel we have experienced. We especially enjoyed the swahili culture. The staff at the hotel are very helpfull. We will come back! Ola and Gunlog This is our second time to visit Amber/ Green !

We stayed at the Emerson on Harumzi for two nights in October after a fantastic safari in Tanzania. We chose the Emerson based on its eclectic style and its reputation. We were very pleased with our choice. The Manager and staff were excellent, answering questions, suggesting and arranging tours. We were given the Sayeed room which was at the top of several steep staircases, and across a boarded bridge/landing adorned with tropical flowering bushes. It was well worth the effort to climb to the room. A large room with rich red curtains and a centrally positioned four poster bed with mosquito nets. The bath/shower was in the corner of the room without a screen, which added to the exotic feeling of the room. The room had an AC unit on the wall but it struggled to chill the room. We had booked on the hotels sunset to sunrise package which is a half board arrangement. We had our first night dinner at the hotels rooftop restaurant. We were seated on the floor on cushions and served local dishes while a small band of lady musicians played and sang. The food was fantastic, the most flavoursome and textured we had during our trip. It was a special place to eat, watching the sun set over the sea with the sailing Dows returning to port. On the second night we ate at the sister hotel, Emerson Spice, in their secret garden restaurant. We had a lovely meal served by a very friendly waitress. The room is open to the sky and has many tropical plants, so you really feel you are in a secret garden. We really enjoyed our stay in stone town, if you like charming, exotic and beautiful hotels then book the Emerson on harumzi you won’t be disappointed.

Buyer beware - we were booked into the Tour room for 1 night. It looks right down on 2 sides into a massive construction site. While we appreciated the rustic room and the quaint tower, none of it could be enjoyed from 6:30 a.m. until dusk due to the pounding, digging, cement mixers etc. Ear plugs didn't dull the noise. Our concern is that the hotel sold us a pricey room and at no time advised us in advance nor were concerned about the construction. I think customers need to be aware prior to booking. The dinner/ staff were lovely so this comment is directed to the managers/owners. A very disappointing stay that we would not repeat. I never leave reviews but this needs to be highlighted. I cannot recommend them on this basis.

I had an amazing time at Emerson! The staff are so friendly and genuinely welcoming. They go above and beyond to see that you have a wonderful experience. I enjoyed dinner at the rooftop restaurant. The food, service, and entertainment were all great, and the view stunning. My room felt like it was meant for royalty. Some people may prefer the generic luxury of a five star hotel but the eccentric charm of the old world Emerson is an experience all its own. I loved it and would not hesitate to recommend to anyone.