In addition to its pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons, hiking trails, colorful coral reefs and abundant wildlife, Mauritius has also gained popularity with travelers thanks to its cosmopolitan culture, reflected in the diversity of its population. This great cultural diversity has also led to the rise of a unique Mauritian gastronomy, a blend of French, Dutch, Indian, African and Mediterranean cuisines.
To sample some of these culinary specialties, you’ll need to visit the best restaurants in Mauritius that serve them best, like Chez Tante Athalie. Read on to find out more about the island’s most popular restaurants and enjoy the best culinary experience on your next vacation in Mauritius!
Sailors Restaurant: seafood heaven in Port-Louis
In the heart of Port-Louis lies Sailors Restaurant, a gastronomic gem known for its fresh seafood and innovative culinary fusions. The restaurant’s famous “Pescatore” menu is a testament to Mauritius’s diverse culinary influences, offering a range of dishes from grilled seafood, lobster and crayfish to Asian-inspired plates. The meticulously presented dishes, combined with the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere, make Sailors Restaurant a must-visit for any food lover in Mauritius.
Tandoori Express: Indian flavours with a Mauritian twist
Another culinary highlight in Port-Louis is the Tandoori Express, renowned for its authentic Indian cuisine. The restaurant boasts a panoramic view of Grand Baie harbor, which only adds to the magic of the moment you’re about to spend there.
The menu features a variety of North and South Indian dishes, such as butter chicken and Goa-style fish curry, as well as a selection of Mauritian-influenced Indian cuisine. Tandoori Express, located in Grand Baie, is the perfect place for those seeking rich, flavorful Indian dishes.
Escale Créole: a warm Creole experience in Moka
- Nestled in the charming village of Moka, l’Escale Créole is a family-run restaurant known for its traditional Creole specialties and is a treasure trove of Mauritian cuisine.
- Surrounded by a lush tropical garden, Chez Tante Athalie offers a serene culinary experience. From homemade cabbage and salted fish cangraillé to classic rougail saucisses, each dish reflects the island’s Creole heritage.
La Cabane du Pêcheur: fresh seafood delights in Trou-aux-Biches
For those visiting Trou-aux-Biches, La Cabane du Pêcheur is an idyllic place to enjoy fresh seafood. Overlooking the turquoise waters of the lagoon, this restaurant offers a picturesque setting for a lunch or dinner break. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and succulent local dishes, La Cabane du Pêcheur is a favorite among travelers and locals alike.
Luxury dining at the Grand Zil
Located in the picturesque village of Calodyne, Hotel Zilwa Attitude is home to the renowned Grand Zil restaurant. Accessible by a short boat ride, this eatery combines luxury with the island’s cultural heritage. Offering a blend of local and international cuisine, the Grand Zil will provide you with a unique culinary experience, making it a must for those staying on the island.
Château de Bel Ombre: a historic gastronomic experience
Nestled in the wild south of the island, Château de Bel Ombre is more than a restaurant; it’s a journey through history. Housed in a 19thᵉ century manor house, this restaurant offers refined cuisine in a majestic setting. The dishes, prepared with the finest local produce, are a celebration of the island’s gastronomic heritage. Château de Bel Ombre is the ideal place for an elegant and memorable evening, and why not, for an ultra-romantic dinner…
Le Barachois at Constance Prince Maurice: dining above the lagoon
Le Barachois, located in the luxurious Constance Prince Maurice hotel near Balaclava, is a gourmet restaurant offering a unique culinary experience. This floating restaurant offers contemporary fusion cuisine in a surreal setting, floating on the water with a breathtaking view of the lagoon. Le Barachois in Balaclava is the perfect place for a romantic dinner. It’s the perfect spot to savor the delights of the sea, including their specialty, shrimp, while being lulled by the sea breeze.
Discover the Best Street Food Establishments in Mauritius
Mauritius, a melting pot of cultures, offers an exquisite array of street food that tickles the taste buds with its unique blend of flavors. From bustling markets to tiny roadside stands, the island’s street food scene is an adventure in itself.
Délices Gourmands at Port-Louis Central Market: a culinary journey through local flavours
The heart of Mauritian street food can be found in the vibrant central market of Port-Louis. This bustling center is not just a market, but a sensory adventure with aromatic spices and colorful fruits amid the charming hubbub of locals and tourists alike. Here, you can find a plethora of stalls serving dishes such as “Dholl Puri” – a thin, fluffy wafer topped with ground yellow split peas, accompanied by spicy curries and chutneys.
Flic en Flac: tasty bites with an ocean view
Flic en Flac, known for its pristine beaches, is also home to a series of street food stalls along its picturesque coastline. The main attraction here is the “Roti mauricien” – a flatbread served with a variety of curries and pickles.
The Mahébourg Night Market, a feast under the stars
As night falls, the Mahébourg waterfront transforms into a bustling night market, where you can find Mauritian specialties like grilled shrimp. Among the most popular dishes here is the “Gâteau Piment”, a type of chili-flavored doughnut made from ground split peas and spices, fried and browned to perfection. These little balls of fire, often stuffed into bread, make an ideal quick, spicy snack.
