Vanuatu, an archipelago located in the South Pacific, is a paradise for foodies who love to explore new cuisines and flavors. The country is known for its rich culinary traditions, which combine influences from its Melanesian, European, and Asian roots. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, Vanuatu offers a variety of dining experiences that cater to different budgets and tastes. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best foodie destinations in Vanuatu that are worth visiting.
Port Vila Market
One of the best foodie destinations in Vanuatu is located in the heart of the capital city, Port Vila Market. This place is a bustling hub of local food culture. The market offers a range of fresh produce, seafood, and cooked meals that are made using traditional recipes. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as laplap (a dish made with grated yam, taro, or cassava, and coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an underground oven), and bougna (a similar dish, but with chicken or fish added). The market also has a section for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Coco Beach Resort
Coco Beach Resort, located on the island of Efate, is one of the popular foodie destinations in Vanuatu. The resort’s restaurant, Coco’s Restaurant, offers a range of international dishes that are made using fresh local ingredients. The menu includes seafood platters, steaks, pasta, and a selection of vegetarian options. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, and visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in the stunning views of the ocean.
The Summit Restaurant
The Summit Restaurant is located on top of a hill on the island of Tanna, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of dishes that are made using local ingredients, such as fish and seafood caught from the nearby waters, and vegetables and fruits grown in the surrounding areas. The restaurant also has a bar that serves a range of cocktails and drinks.
Lapita Cafe
Lapita Cafe, located in the town of Luganville on the island of Espiritu Santo, is a must-visit destination for coffee lovers. The cafe offers a range of coffee blends that are made using locally grown beans, as well as a range of pastries, cakes, and sandwiches. Visitors can enjoy their meals in the cafe’s cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
Nambawan Cafe
Nambawan Cafe, located in the town of Port Olry on the island of Espiritu Santo, is one of the popular foodie destinations in Vanuatu for those who want to sample traditional Melanesian cuisine. The cafe’s menu includes dishes such as grilled fish, coconut crab, and taro chips, all of which are made using traditional recipes. Visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in the stunning views of the ocean.
L’Houstalet
L’Houstalet is a French restaurant located in the town of Port Vila. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of French-inspired dishes, such as escargots, duck confit, and beef bourguignon, all of which are made using fresh local ingredients. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list that includes a range of French and Australian wines.
Tilly’s Restaurant and Bar
Tilly’s Restaurant and Bar is located on the island of Santo, and offers a range of dishes that are made using fresh local ingredients. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of seafood dishes, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options. Visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in the stunning views of the ocean.
Chill Restaurant and Bar
Chill Restaurant and Bar is located on the island of Efate, and offers a range of international dishes that are made using fresh local ingredients. The restaurant’s menu includes dishes such as sushi, seafood pasta, and steak, as well as vegetarian options. Visitors can enjoy their meals in the restaurant’s relaxed and casual atmosphere.
Tamanu on the Beach
Tamanu on the Beach is a luxury resort located on the island of Efate. The resort’s restaurant offers a range of dishes that are made using fresh local ingredients, such as lobster, prawns, and beef. Visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in the stunning views of the ocean.
The Waterfront Bar and Grill
The Waterfront Bar and Grill is located in the heart of Port Vila, and offers a range of dishes that are made using fresh local ingredients. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of seafood dishes, as well as burgers and sandwiches. Visitors can enjoy their meals in the restaurant’s casual and relaxed atmosphere.
Le Jardin des Saveurs
Le Jardin des Saveurs is a French restaurant located in the town of Port Vila. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of French-inspired dishes, such as foie gras, steak tartare, and ratatouille, all of which are made using fresh local ingredients. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list that includes a range of French and Australian wines.
The Beach Bar and Grill
The Beach Bar and Grill is located on the island of Espiritu Santo, and offers a range of dishes that are made using fresh local ingredients. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of seafood dishes, as well as burgers and sandwiches. Visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in the stunning views of the ocean.
Wild Ginger
Wild Ginger is a restaurant located in the town of Port Vila that offers a range of Asian-inspired dishes that are made using fresh local ingredients. The restaurant’s menu includes dishes such as pad thai, sushi, and green curry, as well as vegetarian options. Visitors can enjoy their meals in the restaurant’s cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
Le Café du Village
Le Café du Village is a restaurant located in the town of Port Vila that offers a range of dishes that are made using fresh local ingredients. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of seafood dishes, as well as burgers and sandwiches. Visitors can enjoy their meals in the restaurant’s casual and relaxed atmosphere.
The Lagoon Beach Bar and Restaurant
The Lagoon Beach Bar and Restaurant is one of the foodie destinations in Vanuatu located on the island of Efate. They offer a range of dishes that are made using fresh local ingredients. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of seafood dishes, as well as burgers and sandwiches. Visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in the stunning views of the ocean.
In conclusion, Vanuatu offers a variety of dining experiences that cater to different budgets and tastes. Whether you’re looking for traditional Melanesian cuisine or international dishes made using fresh local ingredients, there’s something for everyone in Vanuatu. From luxury resorts to casual beach bars, the country has a range of foodie destinations that are worth exploring. So, next time you’re in Vanuatu, make sure to check out some of these top foodie destinations to satisfy your taste buds.
Our Top FAQ's
Vanuatu is known for its traditional Melanesian cuisine, which features dishes made using fresh seafood, root vegetables, and tropical fruits. The cuisine also has influences from French and British colonialism.
Yes, many of the restaurants mentioned in the article offer vegetarian options on their menus, such as The Melanesian Port Vila and Wild Ginger.
It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially at the more popular restaurants or during peak tourist season. This ensures that you can secure a table and avoid disappointment.
While some of the restaurants mentioned in the article are more upscale and cater to a luxury crowd, there are also many casual eateries and beach bars that offer affordable options for budget travelers. It’s always best to check the menu prices beforehand to determine if it fits your budget.