Vanuatu isn’t just famous for its stunning islands and pristine beaches; this Pacific nation also has a rich food culture. If food is a major part of your travel adventures, you are in for a treat. The local dishes here reflect the island’s traditions, with an emphasis on fresh, natural ingredients. Let’s dive straight into some of the best local foods you should definitely try and where to find them while you’re in Vanuatu.
Traditional Dishes You Must Try
Lap Lap
Lap Lap is the national dish of Vanuatu. It’s a type of pudding made from yam, taro, or breadfruit, combined with coconut milk and often wrapped in banana leaves. Sometimes, local meats like chicken, pork, or seafood are added for extra flavor. Lap Lap is usually cooked in an underground earth oven called a ‘motu’. It’s filling, hearty, and a must-try for any traveler wanting a true taste of Ni-Vanuatu cuisine.
You can’t leave Vanuatu without trying this dish. It’s commonly served at local celebrations, or you can find it in markets and some traditional restaurants.
Tuluk
Tuluk is another iconic local dish, somewhat like a Vanuatuan version of a tamale. It’s made by grinding cassava into a dough-like paste, filled with meat—usually pork or chicken—and flavored with coconut milk. It’s wrapped up in banana leaves and roasted until tender. It has a creamy, rich flavor that’s easy to fall in love with.
Tuluk is popular for lunch and can be found in markets or street food stalls around Port Vila.
Meat and Seafood
Vanuatu’s fertile soil and sustainable farming methods mean that the quality of beef here is exceptional. Some claim that Vanuatu beef is among the best in the world, rivaling even Wagyu or Angus. You’ll often find beef grilled or used in stews. Local seafood is also incredibly fresh, especially the lobster, tuna, and coconut crab.
For seafood lovers, you can find freshly caught fish at the market every day, or enjoy a seafood feast on the beach.
Santo Beef
If you are a meat-lover, look out for Santo beef. This beef is from the island of Espiritu Santo and has a high reputation for being tender and flavorful. The cattle here are grass-fed and roam freely, giving the beef a really intense flavor.
Many restaurants in Port Vila serve this high-quality meat, whether in burgers, steaks, or BBQ dishes. Don’t miss the chance to taste it while you’re in Vanuatu.
Best Street Food to Try
Kava
No visit to Vanuatu is complete without trying kava. Kava is a traditional drink made from the root of the kava plant, and it’s an important part of the local culture. While it might not be the tastiest drink (it’s often described as tasting like muddy water), the experience is one you should try at least once. Kava is known for its sedative and calming effects, giving you a sense of relaxation at the end of a long day.
You’ll find kava bars (nakamals) all over Vanuatu. They serve only kava and locals head there at sunset to unwind. Make sure to ask for a ‘shell’ or ‘half-shell’ of kava if you’re new to it, as the effects can be quite strong for beginners.
Banana Fritters
For those with a sweet tooth, banana fritters are a must-try. They are deep-fried bananas that are crispy on the outside while soft and sweet on the inside. These are often sold by street vendors as a snack or dessert. You can sometimes find them dipped in sugar or served with a touch of vanilla. They are irresistibly tasty and great for a quick snack.
Roasted Plantains
Plantains are a staple in Vanuatu, often roasted or grilled and sold by street vendors. They are a great side dish with meals, or you can eat them on their own for a satisfying snack. They’re simple but delicious, with a slightly sweet flavor that matches perfectly with the island’s tropical vibe.
Top Restaurant Recommendations
Rock Island Bar Grill
If you want to experience fresh seafood with breathtaking views, head to Rock Island Bar Grill. Perched right on the water, this restaurant is known for its stunning ocean views and amazing seafood. Try the grilled lobster or coconut crab, both of which come highly recommended. The casual, friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for sunset dining too.
Tip: They also serve some pretty solid cocktails, so grab something fruity while you wait for your meal!
L’Houstalet Restaurant
L’Houstalet is a bit of an institution in Port Vila. It’s been around for decades and serves up a mix of French cuisine and local Vanuatu dishes. If you’re up for something adventurous, try their famous flying fox (fruit bat) dish. Don’t worry—it’s safe to eat and considered a specialty here!
For something less daring, their pizzas and steaks are a hit too. It’s a laid-back spot where locals and tourists enjoy hearty meals with a good selection of wines.
The Beach Bar
Located on Mele Beach, The Beach Bar is popular for its relaxed beach vibe and wood-fired pizzas. It’s the perfect spot to chill with a cold drink and watch the sunset. Every Friday night, they have a fire-dancing show, which is a lot of fun and a great way to spend an evening on the beach.
The menu is full of comfort food done right, with wood-fired pizzas being the crowd favorite here.
Au Peche Mignon
If you crave something sweet, Au Peche Mignon is the spot. This French bakery in Port Vila has amazing pastries and desserts perfect for breakfast or a mid-day treat. Their croissants, éclairs, and macarons are baked fresh every day and are as good as anything you’ll find in Paris. Grab a coffee and something sweet from here—you won’t regret it.
Tilly’s Restaurant & Bar
For a more upscale dining experience, head to Tilly’s Restaurant & Bar, located at the Chantilly’s on the Bay hotel. It’s a stunning restaurant with views of the harbor, serving international cuisine with a touch of local flavors. The menu changes often, but you can expect dishes like coconut crab pasta, fresh fish dishes, and beautifully presented desserts.
It’s a great place for a romantic dinner or a meal to remember before leaving Vanuatu.
Where to Find the Best Markets for Local Food
Port Vila Market
This is where you want to go if you’re looking for fresh produce, snacks, and ready-made dishes like lap lap and tuluk. The market is open daily, and it’s a great place to see local life. You can grab a meal to go or sit at one of the communal tables to enjoy your food.
Try the freshly squeezed coconut water or nibble on roasted peanuts while you explore the market stalls. You’ll also find plenty of fresh fruits like mangoes and pineapples for a tasty, healthy snack.
Mama’s Market
Located in Port Vila, Mama’s Market focuses on locally grown vegetables, fruits, and even organic products. This is the place to go if you want to cook some local ingredients yourself or take some foods back home. The market is full of friendly vendors selling everything from yams to freshly caught fish.
If you’re feeling adventurous, ask for a local recipe and cook a meal at your accommodation with ingredients you buy from here.
Wrapping It Up
Vanuatu’s food scene is an experience in itself. From traditional dishes like lap lap to the freshest seafood, there’s plenty to savor. Don’t forget the charming kava bars where you can ease into island time. Whether you’re eating at a beachfront restaurant or grabbing a snack from a street vendor, you’re likely to fall in love with the flavors of Vanuatu.
So pack your appetite and make sure you leave room in your travel plans to seriously enjoy all the amazing food this island nation has to offer. Bon appétit—or as the locals say, ‘kaikai’!
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