A Taste of the Island: The Finest Eateries in Mauritius

When I think of Mauritius, most people probably imagine resort buffets and all-inclusive dining. But this tiny island in the Indian Ocean has so much more to offer in terms of its delectable cuisine. Step outside the confines of your beachside retreat, and you’ll be treated to a vibrant food culture bursting with diversity and flavor. Forget about the usual tourist fare; if you truly want to immerse yourself in Mauritian cuisine, head straight to the charming roadside stalls. Here, you’ll find an array of mouthwatering delights, from tangy vinegar-soaked fruits to spicy curries, fragrant briyanis, and savory samoosas.

Of course, it’s important to note that Mauritius isn’t just about street food. The island is home to a wide range of sensational restaurants that go beyond serving mediocre Mediterranean dishes to please tourists. Before embarking on my culinary adventure in Mauritius, I made it a point to seek recommendations from locals, expats, and even the Twittersphere. I wanted to avoid the usual tourist traps and discover the hidden gems that only insiders know about.

Exploring the Diverse Culinary Delights of Mauritius

I have a wonderful recommendation for you! If you’re looking to indulge in a truly unique and flavorful dining experience, Mauritius offers an array of remarkable restaurants that showcase the island’s multicultural cuisine. From Chinese and Indian to Creole and French, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Embrace the Flavors of Creole Cuisine

Discover Escale Creole

When it comes to Creole cuisine, one restaurant that deserves a mention is Escale Creole. This hidden gem is a beloved favorite among both locals and visitors. With its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes, Escale Creole is the perfect place to dive into the unique flavors of the island.

A visit to Escale Creole is a must for food lovers in Mauritius. When you dine at this charming establishment, you’ll have the pleasure of meeting Marie Christine Forget and her mother, Majo. They are incredibly friendly and love to share stories about Creole cuisine, giving you a deeper understanding of Mauritian culture and cooking. While you indulge in an array of authentic Creole dishes, such as the flavorful rougaille saucisse, chicken curry, salted fish, octopus curry, and a variety of stewed vegetables, pickles, and atchars, Marie Christine and Majo will regale you with tales of the island’s culinary traditions. The meal concludes with delicious homemade desserts, like the tempting banana cake, glace papaya, and mouthwatering coconut cakes. Oh, and don’t forget to try their special family-recipe rhum arrange, a delightful infusion of rum. Escale Creole is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the flavors and culture of Mauritius.

If you want to have lunch at Escale Creole, make sure to book in advance because they only serve lunch and not dinner. It’s located in Moka, just a short drive away from Port Louis. You won’t have trouble finding it as there are clear signs from the main road.

To make a reservation, you can call them at +230-433-1641 or send an email to [email protected] You can also visit their website at www.escalecreole.net for more information.

Now, let’s talk about another great restaurant called Chez Rosy le Gris Gris

If you’re in the southern part of the island near Gris Gris beach in Souillac, you should check out Chez Rosy le Gris Gris. This friendly and vibrant restaurant serves delicious Mauritian Creole and Chinese food. You definitely have to try their octopus vindaye, a traditional Creole dish with mustard and curry leaves. Another popular dish on the menu is Rosy Gounden’s banana flambee, cooked with aromatic spices the Creole way. It might be a bit of a trek to get to Souillac, but it’s totally worth it.

Looking for some amazing seafood? Check out these Mauritian seafood restaurants:

Chez Tino

I’m excited to tell you about the amazing restaurants near the Trou D’eau Douce public beach on the east coast of the island. One of my favorites is Chez Tino, which has a fantastic location with a balcony that offers an incredible view of the bay. When you visit, I highly recommend getting a table upstairs.

Chez Tino is famous for its mouthwatering Mauritian seafood dishes. They specialize in grilled fish and calamari that will leave you craving for more.

Resto Sept: A Hidden Gem

Now, if you’re looking for a change from the beach scene (although it’s hard to get tired of turquoise water and beautiful beaches), Resto Sept is a great option. It’s located on a peaceful road near Trou d’eau Douce. This place has a relaxed and unpretentious vibe that I love.

Resto Sept offers a variety of tasty dishes, including baguettes, Creole cuisine, and Chinese delicacies. However, the real star of their menu is the Mauritian-style seafood. Make sure to try their Indian-style calamari with green sauce and the calamari rougaille – they’re absolute must-haves!

Discover Coolen Chez Ram Restaurant

If you’re looking for a delightful Indian restaurant in Grand Baie, then look no further! This hidden gem is adored by locals and tourists for its mouthwatering Mauritian seafood. From succulent lobsters and red snapper to delectable crab, their dishes are simply unforgettable.

But what sets this place apart goes beyond the amazing food. It’s the warm and welcoming service that makes you feel right at home. The owner is known for being friendly and always up for a chat, adding a personal touch to your dining experience. And the best part? The atmosphere is unpretentious and genuinely friendly.

Experience the Fusion of Chinese and Franco-Mauritian Cuisine

Discover Domaine Anna

Tucked away amidst sprawling fields of sugarcane, just a short drive from Flic en Flac on the west coast of Mauritius, you’ll find Domaine Anna. This expansive restaurant is a versatile venue that caters to both grand wedding parties and intimate dinners for two. When the night falls, an enchanting atmosphere takes over as lanterns and candles cast soft, flickering light over the tranquil ponds that frame the tables. At Domaine Anna, they have made quite a name for themselves with their exceptional Chinese and Mauritian seafood dishes. Allow me to suggest a few standout options: the delicate and flavorful tuna carpaccio, the sizzling calamari spiced with black pepper, and the camarons, a succulent freshwater prawn dish cooked in a tantalizing rum-infused Chinese barbecue sauce. And there is so much more to explore on their diverse menu. Just the thought of indulging in their sumptuous lobster flambéed in whisky has my taste buds dancing.

Immerse Yourself in Chinese Cuisine

Visit our First Restaurant

When it comes to finding the best dim sum in town, look no further than First Restaurant. Located in the heart of Port Louis CBD, near China Town, this place is a favorite among locals and offers an incredible menu of Cantonese dishes with a Mauritian twist. The atmosphere is always bustling, filled with Chinese diners, which is a great sign if you ask me. Don’t forget to try the changing daily specials of dim sum – they’re absolutely delightful. Just be aware that it can get quite busy on Sundays for lunch, so it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance.

You can find First Restaurant at the corner of Royal and Corderie Streets in Port Louis. To book a table, call +230-212-0685.

Dragon Vert

Dragon Vert is another fantastic option for Chinese food enthusiasts. Located in Quatre-Bornes, in the center of the island, this restaurant is highly praised by locals. They serve up a variety of typical Chinese snacks that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ah Yoon

I want to tell you about a popular restaurant in Mauritius called Ah Yoon. It has two branches, one in Vacoas and another in Flic-en-Flac. Ah Yoon is a favorite spot for teenagers, especially after school. The place is always crowded because they serve cheap noodle dishes and meatballs that are a staple for teens and budget-conscious travelers. It’s a great option if you’re on a tight budget.

Indian Cuisine

Happy Rajah

When it comes to Indian-Mauritian food, locals highly recommend Happy Rajah in Quatre-Bornes. They have fantastic dishes like vindaloo and fish. Not only is the food delicious, but the service is also friendly, and the prices are reasonable. Happy Rajah is definitely worth a visit!

Gastronomic Mauritian Cuisine

La Table du Chateau

When I think of fine dining in Mauritius, one place that stands out is La Table du Chateau. Located at the stunning Chateau Labourdonnais in Mapou, this restaurant offers an exquisite experience, rivaling even the best resort eateries. As I sit, I can gaze upon the magnificent chateau, creating an ambiance unlike any other.

What makes La Table du Chateau truly special is the food. The dishes may be simple, but they are bursting with elegance and flavor, with a touch of Mediterranean influence. One of my favorites is the tandoori prawns, accompanied by a minted cucumber salad and a refreshing yoghurt sauce. The combination of flavors is heavenly.

Another standout dish is the lamb curry, prepared with roasted almonds and mango atchar. It’s a perfect balance of spicy and sweet, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. And let’s not forget the crispy duck leg, served with a breadfruit gratin. The duck is tender, its skin perfectly crispy, and the gratin is a wonderful accompaniment.

Chef Fabio de Poli goes above and beyond to source the finest ingredients for his dishes. He scours the island for the best produce, often discovering unique and unusual ingredients that add an exciting twist to his creations. For instance, he serves coconut heart with sour cream and pan-fried scallops, a combination that takes you on a culinary adventure.

But it’s not just the main courses that shine at La Table du Chateau. The desserts are equally unforgettable. One particular highlight for me was the creme brulee made with rare Tahitian vanilla. This vanilla, grown exclusively on the Labourdonnais estate and in Tahiti, infuses the dessert with an unparalleled richness and depth of flavor.

After indulging in a delicious meal at La Table du Chateau, I highly recommend doing a rum tasting. The rum arrangements here are exceptional, and it’s a great way to further explore the local flavors and traditions.

La Table du Chateau at Chateau Labourdonnais offers a dining experience that is truly extraordinary. From the breathtaking views to the exquisite dishes, every moment spent here is a feast for the senses. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable dining experience in Mauritius, this is the place to be.

Can’t Beat the View

Chamarel Restaurant has got to have one of the most amazing views on the whole island. It sits up high in Chamarel, giving you a breathtaking look at the beautiful south west coast. Forget about the 7-coloured earth attraction nearby – it’s really not worth your time. Trust me, it’s just a fancy sandpit. But the view from this restaurant? Absolutely worth it.

At Chamarel Restaurant, you’ll find a variety of delicious Mauritian dishes. They really capture the unique flavors of the island. One of my favorites was the octopus curry served with green papaya and coconut chutney. And if you’re a fan of fish, you can’t miss the dorado vindaye paired with Creole rice, chutney, and pickles.

But let me tell you about the real standout dishes. The cassava goujons are like little bites of heaven. They’re deep-fried sticks of cassava that make the perfect Mauritian tapas. And if you’re in the mood for something different, try the farata topped with “bredes,” or steamed greens, tomato, and mozzarella. It’s like a Mauritian twist on pizza. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

A Splash of Rum in Every Bite

Hey there! I’ve got a tip for you if you’re looking for a fantastic place to enjoy delicious food in Mauritius. Have you heard of L’Alchimiste Restaurant at Rhumerie du Chamarel? It’s just outside of Chamarel and let me tell you, they make some amazing dishes using their award-winning rums.

One of my personal favorites is the wild boar braised with rum served with yam puree. It’s absolutely mouthwatering! If you’re into curry, you should definitely try their chicken-and-rum curry. And for all the chocolate lovers out there, they have an incredibly decadent moelleux chocolate cake infused with rum that is to die for!

A Taste of History

Now let me take you to another incredible place called Maison Eureka. It’s a stunning old mansion located in a peaceful area of Moka, surrounded by beautiful trees. It used to belong to a plantation owner, so you can imagine the history that lives within those walls.

At Maison Eureka, you can enjoy a delightful lunch or dinner on the veranda while enjoying the view of the tropical garden. The best part is that they have a different menu every day, showcasing authentic Mauritian cuisine. One of their popular dishes is the chicken curry with peanut rougaille, which is a tangy red peanut sauce. They also serve it with pickles and rice, and let me tell you, it’s a burst of flavors!

For Dholl Puri Lovers

Let me introduce you to Dewa & Sons!

If you’re a fan of dholl puris, then this is the place for you. Dewa & Sons is known for serving the best dholl puris in town. These delightful little treats are made with love and filled with a mouthwatering combination of yellow split peas, curry, and spices. You won’t be able to resist them!

If Mauritius had a signature dish, it would definitely be dholl puris, or dhal puris. When it comes to the best dholl puris on the island, everyone agrees that Dewa & Sons takes the crown. Located in Rose Hill, just a short drive from Port Louis, this unassuming little restaurant and its neighboring sweet and cool drink shop are famous for their mouthwatering creations. Simply ask the locals for directions to Dewa, and you’ll find yourself in dholl puri heaven.

Join the queue at Dewa and order a pair of dholl puris for just Rs40 (about R10). Once you’ve got your hands on these delicious treats, head over to the veranda where you’ll find plastic tables and chairs to enjoy your meal. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, making it the perfect spot to savor the flavors of Mauritius.

But what really sets Dewa apart is their unique service. If you’re traveling overseas and craving a taste of Mauritius, you can actually place an order for dholl puris a couple of days in advance. Dewa will pack them up carefully so they stay fresh for up to a couple of weeks, allowing you to enjoy an authentic Mauritian experience wherever you are.

According to Mauritian ex-pat Nakkiran Sunassee, “What makes Dewa’s so inviting is that one can place an order for dholl puris for overseas travel a couple of days before and they will pack them appropriately to last a couple of weeks when you get to your destination.”

So, if you find yourself in Mauritius or simply have a deep craving for dholl puris, make sure to pay a visit to Dewa & Sons. Your taste buds will thank you!

Photos by Russell Smith www.russellsmith.co.za

Have I left any great Mauritian restaurants off this list?