The Best Food to Try on Your Mauritius Holiday

From mouthwatering street food to flavourful curries, Mauritian cuisine has something to tantalise every taste bud. Here’s a guide to the best food you must try when visiting Mauritius.

1. Dholl Puri: The Island’s Favourite Street Food
Arguably the most popular street food in Mauritius, Dholl Puri is a must-try. Made from ground yellow split peas, this flatbread is usually served hot and fresh, stuffed with various curries, chutneys, and pickles. You’ll often find it wrapped in paper and served to go, making it a perfect snack as you explore the island.

Where to try Almost every corner of the island, especially in local markets like Port Louis' Central Market.

2. Gâteau Piment: Spicy Lentil Fritters
If you love a snack with a kick, Gâteau Piment is for you. These spicy little fritters, made from yellow split peas mixed with chili and coriander, are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re perfect for a quick bite, often eaten on their own or stuffed into warm bread.

Where to try Street vendors and small roadside stalls all across Mauritius.

3. Boulettes: Mauritian Dumplings
Boulettes, Mauritian-style dumplings, are heavily influenced by Chinese cuisine. Made from a variety of ingredients like shrimp, fish, or chicken, they’re served in a light broth or soy sauce. You can find them at almost any market or roadside eatery. For the best experience, try a selection of different types to get the full flavour spectrum.

Where to try Chinatown in Port Louis is famous for its dumpling stalls.

4. Cari Poulet: Mauritian Chicken Curry
Mauritian curries are rich, flavourful, and packed with aromatic spices. Cari Poulet (Chicken Curry) is a local favourite, typically served with rice, lentils, and pickles. The curry itself is a beautiful mix of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and other spices. It’s often garnished with fresh cilantro and served with flatbreads like roti.

Where to try Local restaurants and beachside shacks, especially in Grand Baie and Flic en Flac.

5. Rougaille: A Tomato-Based Delight
A staple in many Mauritian households, Rougaille is a tomato-based sauce simmered with garlic, onions, thyme, and ginger. It’s commonly paired with sausages, seafood, or even tofu for vegetarians. Rougaille is hearty, tangy, and perfect with rice or bread. The Creole influence is most pronounced in this dish.

Where to try Traditional Mauritian restaurants and family-style eateries.

6. Seafood: Fresh and Flavourful
Being an island, Mauritius boasts some of the freshest seafood you can find. Grilled fish, octopus curry, and lobster are just a few options. The seafood here is often prepared simply, allowing the freshness of the fish to shine through. Try it grilled with a touch of lemon, or in a curry flavored with coconut milk and spices.

Where to try Coastal restaurants in places like Blue Bay and Le Morne.

7. Alouda: The Perfect Sweet Refreshment
After indulging in the rich flavors of Mauritian food, you’ll need something sweet to cool down, and Alouda is the perfect choice. This chilled beverage made from milk, basil seeds, and flavored with vanilla or almond essence, is similar to a milkshake but lighter. It’s often served over ice and topped with a scoop of ice cream.

Where to try Port Louis Central Market and other local stalls.

8. Mine Frite: Mauritian Fried Noodles
Influenced by the Chinese community in Mauritius, Mine Frite is a simple yet delicious stir-fried noodle dish. Typically, egg noodles are tossed in a wok with vegetables, soy sauce, and sometimes meat or seafood. Topped with a fried egg or chili sauce, it’s a quick and tasty meal.

Where to try Local food stalls and Chinese restaurants.

9. Samosas and Biryani: Indian Influence at its Best
The Indian influence is strong in Mauritian cuisine, with dishes like Samosas and Biryani being popular across the island. Mauritian samosas are often stuffed with spiced potatoes, peas, or meat and fried to perfection. Biryani, a fragrant rice dish cooked with saffron, meat, and spices, is another must-try, especially during festive occasions.

Where to try Street vendors for samosas; local Indian restaurants for biryani.

10. Gâteau Patate: Sweet Potato Cakes
For dessert lovers, Gâteau Patate is a delectable option. These sweet potato cakes, filled with coconut and flavored with vanilla, are fried or baked to perfection. Soft, sweet, and with a hint of coconut, they make a great snack or dessert.

Where to try Bakeries and street vendors around Mauritius.

Mauritian cuisine is a beautiful reflection of the island’s diverse cultural influences, combining flavors from Africa, Asia, and Europe. Whether you’re a street food lover or a fan of hearty home-cooked meals, Mauritius has something to offer every food enthusiast.

So, the next time you find yourself on this tropical paradise, don’t miss the chance to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing!

And remember to book your stay at White Oak Villas.