Discovering the Culinary Delights of Mauritius
Welcome to the beautiful island of Mauritius! A paradise for food lovers, Mauritius boasts a rich culinary scene that combines flavors and influences from its diverse cultural heritage. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a mouthwatering journey through some of the best restaurants in Mauritius. Whether you’re in the mood for Creole, Indian, Chinese, or French cuisine, there’s something here to please every palate. So, loosen your belt and get ready to savor the island’s gastronomic delights!
The North
Le Pescatore
Located in Trou aux Biches, Le Pescatore is a must-visit for seafood lovers. With a stunning beachfront setting, this fine dining restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, prepared with local ingredients and authentic Mauritian flavors. Try their signature dish, the seafood platter, which features a delectable assortment of grilled fish, prawns, and calamari, served with a side of Creole rice.
Happy Rajah
If you’re craving Indian cuisine, look no further than Happy Rajah in Grand Baie. Known for its warm atmosphere and friendly staff, this restaurant serves a wide range of traditional Indian dishes, such as butter chicken, tandoori, and biryani. For a true taste of Mauritius, don’t miss their fusion dish, the Mauritian-style biryani, which incorporates local spices and flavors.
The East
Le Château de Bel Ombre
Nestled within the lush gardens of the Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort, Le Château de Bel Ombre offers a unique fine dining experience in a 19th-century colonial mansion. The menu features a mix of French and Mauritian cuisine, with a strong emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to try their pan-seared duck breast, served with a tangy passion fruit sauce and accompanied by a glass of fine Mauritian wine.
La Plage
For a more laid-back dining experience, head to La Plage in Belle Mare. This casual beachfront restaurant offers a variety of Mauritian, Creole, and international dishes, perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Don’t miss their grilled fish served with a zesty Creole sauce and a side of palm heart salad, a local favorite.
The West
Domaine Anna
Set amidst a picturesque sugar cane plantation in Flic en Flac, Domaine Anna is the perfect spot for an unforgettable dining experience. This elegant restaurant offers a fusion of Chinese and Mauritian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and locally grown produce. Be sure to try their famous chili crab, which is cooked in a spicy tomato sauce and served with a side of fried noodles.
Le Fangourin
Located within the L’Aventure du Sucre museum, Le Fangourin offers a unique culinary journey through Mauritius’ rich history of sugar production. The menu features a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes, each inspired by the island’s sugar cane heritage. Try their sugar cane smoked marlin served with a tangy green papaya salad for a true taste of Mauritius.
The South
Le Saint Aubin
Set in a charming colonial plantation house, Le Saint Aubin offers a delightful fusion of French and Mauritian cuisine.Located in the south of the island near Souillac, this restaurant is surrounded by lush gardens and offers a serene dining experience. Their menu changes seasonally to incorporate fresh, local ingredients, and they’re known for their excellent service. Don’t miss their delicious vanilla-scented chicken curry, made with vanilla pods grown on the plantation itself.
La Kaze Mama
For an authentic Mauritian home-cooked meal, visit La Kaze Mama in Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa. This unique outdoor dining experience allows guests to enjoy traditional Creole dishes prepared by local “Mamas” who share their family recipes and cooking secrets. Sample their mouthwatering octopus curry or indulge in the famous “mine bouilli” (boiled noodles) with a variety of tasty accompaniments.
Central Mauritius
Le Courtyard
Located in the heart of Port Louis, Le Courtyard offers a sophisticated dining experience in an elegant courtyard setting. Their menu combines French and Mauritian cuisine, showcasing the island’s unique culinary heritage. Make sure to try their tender beef fillet with a rich pepper sauce, accompanied by a glass of wine from their extensive list.
Dholl Puri Stalls
No visit to Mauritius would be complete without trying the famous street food, dholl puri. These delicious flatbreads, filled with spiced split peas, are a local favorite and can be found at numerous stalls throughout Port Louis. Head to the bustling Central Market, where you’ll find several vendors serving up these tasty treats, often accompanied by chutneys and pickles. It’s a budget-friendly and flavorful way to experience Mauritian cuisine at its finest.
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to the diverse and delectable dining scene in Mauritius. With its rich blend of cultural influences, this island paradise offers something for every food lover, from fine dining experiences to casual beachside eateries and bustling street food markets. So, grab your fork and dig into the tantalizing flavors of Mauritius.