Mauritian food blends African, Indian, Chinese, and French influences into a unique culinary experience. Here’s what you need to know:
- Street Food Favorites: Try dholl puri and roti, available for about $1.00 at markets like Port Louis Central Market or spots like Chez Bye in Rose Hill.
- Signature Dishes: Don’t miss rougaille, biryani, and octopus curry. Seafood lovers can enjoy fresh catches in coastal areas like Flic en Flac or Mahebourg.
- Spices and Ingredients: Key flavors include turmeric, curry leaves, thyme, and coriander. Local vegetables like chayote and tropical fruits like lychee add balance.
- Dining Options: From luxury restaurants like Le Château de Bel Ombre to mid-range spots like Chez Tino, there’s something for every budget.
- Drinks and Desserts: Sip on Rhum Arrangé or Alouda and indulge in desserts like gâteau patate or gâteau zinzli.
Whether you’re exploring street food or fine dining, Mauritius offers a vibrant mix of flavors and experiences. Plan your meals around typical dining hours (breakfast: 6:30 AM–10:30 AM, lunch: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, dinner: 6:30 PM–10:00 PM) for the best experience.
Top Mauritian Dishes
Street Food: Dholl Puri and Roti
Dholl puri is a must-try when in Mauritius. This flatbread, made from yellow split peas and cooked on a tawa, reflects the island’s Indian roots. It’s typically served with rougaille, curry, pickles, and a spicy chili paste. For just about $1.00, you can grab one at spots like Chez Bye in Rose Hill or any Dewa & Sons outlets across the island.
Roti, also known as farata, is another street food favorite. Made from white flour, this flatbread is the perfect match for Mauritian curries and chutneys. If you’re visiting the Trou Fanfaron market, you’ll find a small stall renowned for serving some of the best roti on the island.
"I love dholl puris! I love everything street food. They’re the best! Head to Tamarin Bay on Sundays to have some dholl puri or dumplings and boiled noodles. This is what makes Mauritius beautiful; there are so many different foods and cultures to experience. It’s magic." – Lydia
But street food is just the beginning. Mauritius also boasts hearty main dishes that highlight the island’s culinary diversity.
Main Dishes: Rougaille and Curries
Mauritian curries are all about flavor, not heat. Here are a few dishes to try:
| Dish | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Biryani | Fragrant rice with spices, meat, and potatoes | Port Louis markets |
| Bol Renversé | Layered rice, vegetables, protein, and a fried egg | Local restaurants |
| Mine Frite | Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and chili paste | Street vendors |
Other popular snacks include gateaux piments – crispy, deep-fried chili cakes made with yellow split peas, chilies, and curry leaves – and Chinese-Mauritian boulettes, served in broth or with noodles.
Fresh Seafood Dishes
Mauritius’ coastal location means seafood lovers are in for a treat. At Chez Tino in Trou d’Eau Douce, you’ll find langoustines and octopus curry prepared from time-honored family recipes.
Some seafood highlights include:
- Fish Vindaye: A tangy curry made with mustard, turmeric, onions, and garlic.
- Octopus Curry: Cooked without coconut milk, featuring herbs like thyme.
- Calamar Croustillant: Crispy calamari seasoned with local spices.
"That’s the main difference between Indian curry and Mauritian cuisine. Indian curry is very spicy. In Mauritius, it’s more about the flavors." – Marie Anne Lacour
For the freshest seafood, head to coastal spots in Flic en Flac or Mahebourg, where daily catches are served with care.
Main Ingredients in Mauritian Food
Spices and Herbs Guide
Mauritian cuisine is all about layering flavors with precise spice combinations, resulting in taste profiles that mirror the island’s diverse cultural influences.
Here are some key spices and herbs used in Mauritian cooking:
| Spice/Herb | Local Name | Key Uses | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turmeric | Safran | Curries, rougaille | Mildly spicy, earthy |
| Curry Leaves | Feuille caripoulé | Massala, curries | Earthy, slightly bitter |
| Thyme | – | Seafood, stews | Minty, peppery |
| Coriander | Cotomili | Chutneys, marinades | Fresh, citrus-like |
When buying spices in Mauritius, look for bold colors and strong aromas – they’re the markers of quality.
Fresh, locally grown produce is just as important in shaping the flavors of Mauritian dishes.
Local Fruits and Vegetables
Mauritius’ tropical fruits and vegetables add balance to its spice-forward cuisine. Thanks to the island’s fertile soil and climate, a wide range of produce is used in traditional recipes.
Some commonly used vegetables include:
- Chayote: A favorite in stir-fries and curries
- Bitter Gourd: Often featured in Chinese-Mauritian dishes
- Bottle Gourd: A staple in traditional stews
- Brèdes (leafy greens): Varieties like watercress and amaranth leaves
The island also boasts an impressive variety of tropical fruits, especially during the summer months (November–February). Many fruits, such as mangoes and papayas, grow wild.
Here are some popular tropical fruits:
| Fruit | Best Season | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Lychee | Summer | Fresh, desserts |
| Java Apple | Year-round | Salads, preserves |
| Jackfruit | Summer | Curries, desserts |
| Banane Zinzeli | Year-round | Snacks, cooking |
For the freshest produce, head to local markets in Port Louis rather than supermarkets. Vendors often provide tips on picking ripe fruits and flavorful vegetables that are perfect for traditional recipes.
"The story of Mauritius is a blending together of different cultures, races, religions and spices – and then making this into something special, something that is unique, all our own." – Curtis Saminadas
These vibrant spices and fresh ingredients are the heart of Mauritius’ unforgettable flavors.
Restaurant Guide by Price
High-End Restaurants
Mauritius offers a taste of elegance with its fine dining options, often set in colonial mansions or luxury resorts. These establishments combine sophisticated settings with carefully crafted menus.
Le Château de Bel Ombre is a standout choice for French fine dining. Housed in a beautifully restored colonial mansion, it offers an upscale ambiance perfect for special occasions.
For a mix of breathtaking views and Creole cuisine, Le Chamarel Restaurant is a must-visit. Its chef describes the experience as:
"To taste our cuisine is to experience the story of Mauritian gastronomy across time: from comforting traditional dishes to more elaborate, contemporary flavours…"
Other notable fine dining options include:
| Restaurant | Location | Specialty | Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Château Mon Desir | Maritim Resort & Spa | Fine cuisine | Colonial-style mansion |
| Safran | Shangri-La Hotel | Indian and Mauritian | Modern luxury |
| Inti | LUX Resort | Peruvian-Argentinian | Contemporary coastal |
| La Spiaggia | LUX* Belle Mare | Italian fine dining | Beachfront |
If you’re looking for something less formal, Mauritius also has plenty of mid-range options that highlight local flavors.
Mid-Price Local Restaurants
For those who want authentic Mauritian cuisine without the high price tag, the island’s mid-range family-run restaurants are an excellent choice. These spots focus on traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.
Chez Tino in Trou d’Eau Douce is known for its fresh seafood and Creole dishes. Highlights include seafood salads and crab soup, made with daily catches from local fishermen.
In Grand Baie, La Rougaille Creole serves seafood infused with local spices. Signature dishes like fresh crabs and prawns showcase traditional preparation methods.
For a dining experience steeped in history, Le Fangourin at the Beau Plan sugar mill garden offers a menu that reflects Mauritius’ cultural heritage.
Street Food and Markets
For a lively and affordable food adventure, head to Mauritius’ bustling street food markets. These markets are a treasure trove of local flavors and vibrant energy.
The Port Louis Central Market is a hub for authentic street food. Early mornings are the best time to visit, with fresh produce and snacks at their peak.
Popular street food markets include:
| Market | Location | Must-Try Dishes | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trou Fanfaron | Port Louis | Roti, deep-fried breadfruit | Early morning |
| Central Market | Port Louis | Dholl puri, gateaux piments | Before noon |
| Flacq Market | Central Flacq | Fresh fish, local tea | Morning hours |
One visitor shared their experience:
"I found grazing through the Mauritius markets and soaking up the sights and smells of the varied Mauritian food in Port Louis to be an excellent way to spend a morning"
For the best experience, plan to arrive early and don’t hesitate to haggle – especially at Market Cité Martial and Quatre Bornes. Be sure to try local favorites like chili cakes (gateaux piments) and dumplings (boulettes) for an authentic taste of Mauritius.
Dining Rules and Tips
Eating Times and Tips
In Mauritius, meals are served at specific times, so planning around these schedules can enhance your culinary experience. Breakfast is typically available from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM, lunch from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, and dinner from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM. For instance, at the Long Beach Resort’s Le Marché, the breakfast buffet kicks off at 6:30 AM.
| Meal | Typical Hours |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM |
| Lunch | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM |
| Dinner | 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM |
Being aware of these timings helps you make the most of Mauritius’ diverse food offerings. Aligning your schedule with these hours ensures you don’t miss out on the island’s delicious cuisine.
What to Wear and When to Book
To enjoy dining in Mauritius without a hitch, keep these etiquette and booking tips in mind.
Dining Customs
When dining, it’s polite to follow local practices. Most Mauritians use a spoon and fork, but in Indian-influenced restaurants, eating with your right hand is an option. Keep in mind that using your left hand for eating is considered impolite.
Reservations
For fine dining or resort restaurants, booking ahead is a smart move. For example, at the Attitude Group of Hotels, "Dine-Around" reservations need to be made 24 hours in advance at the Guest Experience counter. If you’re staying at Zilwa Attitude for three or more nights, you can reserve up to a week before check-in.
Cultural Considerations
Be sensitive to dietary preferences influenced by religion. Many Hindus avoid beef, and Muslim establishments typically don’t serve pork. Also, it’s customary to try a variety of dishes and finish what’s on your plate.
For hassle-free reservations during busy periods, use platforms like OpenTable or Eat App.
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Food by Region
North: Beach and Seafood
The northern region of Mauritius is a haven for seafood lovers, offering a mix of seaside dining and fresh, flavorful dishes. In Grand Baie, Banana Beach Club & Gourmet Grill combines Mauritian and international cuisines in a laid-back setting. For a more refined experience, Le Pescatore in Trou aux Biches is celebrated for its expertly crafted fish dishes made with local ingredients.
Another must-visit is L’Atelier Restaurant in Grand Gaube, where local flavors meet international inspiration, creating dishes that stand out. Heading south from here, the influence of Creole heritage becomes a defining feature of the food scene.
South: Creole Food
The southern part of Mauritius is the epicenter of Creole cuisine, where age-old recipes and techniques thrive. The Chamarel region is particularly noteworthy, offering not only exceptional food but also the charm of a famous rum distillery.
A signature dish of the south is rougaille, a flavorful tomato-based stew served with rice and a choice of proteins. Chef Ram from Le Château De Bel Ombre shares his passion for this dish:
"I am a chef at Le Château De Bel Ombre. I have 25 years’ experience and many favourite dishes. My favourite, though, is salted fish rougaille with fried chilli, fried rice, and lentils!"
While the south is steeped in Creole traditions, the eastern and western coasts offer a mix of luxurious resort dining and vibrant street food, highlighting the island’s diverse culinary landscape.
East and West Food Spots
The eastern coast is home to some of Mauritius’s top resort dining experiences. Near Mahebourg’s historic harbor, Le Bazillic serves a variety of fresh seafood, noodles, and steaks with stunning views of the harbor. In Belle Mare, Duck Laundry has earned its reputation as the island’s leading Chinese restaurant. For a fusion of Indian and Mauritian flavors, Safran at the Shangri La Resort in Trou d’Eau Douce offers a menu that blends traditional spices with modern cooking techniques.
On the western coast, Port Louis takes the spotlight with its bustling street food scene. Vendors here serve everything from traditional snacks to inventive fusion dishes. Chinatown in Port Louis is particularly known for its Chinese-Mauritian cuisine, while local treats like gato brinzel (eggplant cake) and gato piment (chili cake) are widely available. Adding a modern twist, Fabrice Lee introduced bubble tea to Mauritius in 2012, opening the island’s first shop in a local mall and expanding the region’s culinary offerings.
Best Street Food in Mauritius – Ultimate Mauritian Food Tour
Drinks and Sweets
Mauritius isn’t just about savory dishes – it also boasts a variety of drinks and desserts that are worth exploring.
Rum and Mixed Drinks
Mauritius has a rich rum culture, with highlights like Rhum Arrangé, a rum infused with spices or dried fruits, often enjoyed as a post-dinner treat. Another favorite is the cocktail Ti Punch, perfect for sipping in the tropical heat. For beer lovers, Phoenix beer, introduced by Mauritius Breweries Limited in 1963, remains a local classic. Its variations, Blue Marlin and Stella Pils, have even gained international recognition.
Hot and Cold Drinks
For a warm, soothing drink, try Vanilla Tea, a blend of black tea, milk, and vanilla pods. If you’re after something cool and unique, Alouda is a must-try. This local version of Faluda combines basil seeds, agar-agar, milk, and your choice of almond, strawberry, or vanilla flavoring for a refreshing, textured experience.
You can find these drinks at cafes and markets across the island. Café Lux serves freshly roasted coffee at spots like Bagatelle Mall, Trianon Shopping Park, and Caudan Shopping Mall. Meanwhile, the Port Louis Central Market is perfect for grabbing a fresh alouda paired with local snacks.
And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, Mauritius won’t disappoint.
Local Desserts
The island’s desserts are a delightful mix of flavors and traditions. Gâteau Patate, a sweet potato cake infused with vanilla, cinnamon, or rum, and Gâteau Zinzli, made from glutinous rice, cane sugar, and black sesame, are perfect examples of Mauritius’s culinary diversity.
For a wider selection, head to Chelsea’s Cup N Cake in Curepipe for cakes and pastries, or Lemon Tree Café in Mapou for Portuguese-inspired treats like Pasteis de Nata. If you prefer traditional sweets, visit Flacq Market on Wednesdays or Sundays, or check out Mahebourg Market on Mondays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Summary
Mauritian cuisine reflects the island’s rich multicultural heritage, blending French, Indian, Chinese, Creole, and African flavors into an incredible culinary mix. Whether you’re grabbing street food or enjoying a luxurious meal, Mauritius, often called the "pantry of the Indian Ocean", offers something for every budget.
Food prices vary depending on the experience. Street food costs about $0.75, mid-range meals range from $7–15, and upscale dining can go from $38–100 per person (not including drinks). Street food, in particular, stands out for its bold flavors and unbeatable prices.
For a true taste of local life, start at Port Louis Central Market, check out Rose-Hill for the best dholl puri, and head to Chinatown for delicious sweets. The Flacq Market is another great spot to try authentic local dishes.
Local restaurants often offer better prices and more authentic meals compared to tourist-oriented venues. For seafood, visit the northern beaches, while the southern region is known for its Creole specialties. Signature dishes like salted fish rougaille showcase the expertise of local chefs who have spent decades perfecting their craft.
Round out your food journey with local beverages like Alouda or Rhum Arrangé. Mauritius is a destination where vibrant flavors and diverse dining experiences come together to create a truly unforgettable culinary adventure.
