ABOUT US: The Fahari Philosophy
Where Simplicity Meets Splendor
At Fahari Off the Grid, we believe there is beauty in simplicity. Our vision sprouts from a passion for food and a love for travel, blending these themes through our Jamaican perspective. We challenge the notion that luxury must come with frills and formality. Instead, we take pride – 'fahari' in Kiswahili – in our rustic setting, proving that splendor can exist in the most unexpected places. Our mission is simple: to serve exceptional food in an unpretentious setting that can still take your breath away.
We are a part of an ongoing culinary conversation, a delicious dialogue between islands, continents, and cultures. Each dish is an invitation to discovery, introducing you to ingredients and flavours you may have never encountered before. We invite you to discover new flavors, experience the joy of island hospitality, and see how simple spaces can be transformed into something extraordinary here in our little slice of Jamaica at the edge of Zanzibar.
Regional Focus, Global Perspective
While Zanzibar is our home and heart, our culinary net casts wide across Tanzania and its neighbours. Our partnerships stretch from the fishermen of Kizimkazi to farmers and artisans across the region. We're proud to work with local initiatives like the Tufahamiane Women's Group, supporting community development right here in Kizimkazi.
These relationships aren't just about business—they're about building a network of sustainability and quality . Each supplier, whether they're down the road or across the border, plays a crucial role in the Fahari experience. Here, each dish tells a story of regional bounty and global inspiration. It's an approach to sourcing and food that honors local traditions while embracing the interconnectedness of our planet.
"Off the Grid" isn't just our name—it's our philosophy. In a place where modern conveniences are often limited, we've turned challenges into opportunities for innovation. For us, sustainability isn't a buzzword—it's the backbone of our operations. From water conservation to creative waste reuse and reduction, we're constantly cooking up ways to soften our environmental footprint. We offer you a chance to savor the beauty of sustainable living and take some inspiration back home with you.
Meet Chef Lij
Meet Chef Lij Heron, our esteemed Executive Chef, whose culinary odyssey has traversed from the sun-kissed shores of Jamaica to kitchens of global renown.
Originally set for a career in electrical engineering, he discovered his true calling in the culinary arts. This realization led him to the Culinary Institute of America, where he honed his skills and laid the foundation for his future in gastronomy. Venturing across the UAE's culinary landscape, Chef Lij honed his skills in some of the region's most acclaimed establishments, including the award-winning Lexington Grill at the Waldorf Astoria in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Muntaha at Burj Al Arab, and the Rib Room Steakhouse in the Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai.
Throughout his illustrious career, Chef Lij has garnered numerous accolades, including consecutive wins as the "Best Meat Chef" at the Pro Chef Middle East Awards and the coveted title of "Best Steakhouse" in the BBC Good Food Middle East Awards.
While renowned for his mastery of steaks, Chef Lij's passion is to introduce Zanzibar to the vibrant and flavorful cuisine of Jamaica.