Vanuatu is a small island nation packed with stunning landscapes and an underrated food scene. If you’re headed there, get ready for flavorful dishes rooted in tradition. As in many island nations, you’ll notice the heavy use of fresh ingredients, coconut milk, and seafood. Whether you’re visiting a food market or sitting down in a fine dining restaurant, Vanuatu’s local cuisine offers something for everyone.
Local Cuisine in Vanuatu
Traditional food in Vanuatu is simple yet rich in flavor, relying on what’s grown or caught locally. Root crops like yam, taro, and sweet potatoes make up a big part of the diet. These are often paired with coconut milk or used as the base for stews, soups, and side dishes.
One of the main things you’ll notice about eating in Vanuatu is how fresh everything tastes. The food is grown organically, and meals often include no processed ingredients. If you’re looking to eat like a local, here are a few must-try traditional dishes you won’t want to miss.
Lap Lap
No trip to Vanuatu is complete without trying Lap Lap. It’s considered the national dish of the islands. Essentially, it’s a type of pudding made from grated root vegetables like yam, cassava, or taro. The vegetables are mixed into a paste, wrapped in banana leaves, and then baked or steamed in an underground oven. Before it’s cooked, the mixture is sometimes topped with coconut milk and maybe some bits of meat or fish.
Each bite is a mix of soft textures and mild flavors. The smoky aroma from the traditional style of cooking also adds to the experience. You’ll find Lap Lap almost everywhere, from village kitchens to roadside stalls.
Tuluk
This local delicacy might remind you of tamales. Tuluk is made by wrapping beef (sometimes pork) in manioc dough (cassava) and banana leaves. It’s cooked in the same way as Lap Lap: slow and over an underground fire. The slow cooking gives it a smoky flavor and keeps the meat tender. Tuluk offers a unique blend of starchy dough and savory meat, making every bite filling and enjoyable.
Coconut-Based Dishes
The use of coconut is a staple in Vanuatu’s cuisine. Everything from coconut milk to coconut oil finds its way into dishes, enhancing meals with extra creaminess and sweetness.
Santo Beef in Coconut Milk
Beef lovers, take note. Vanuatu is known for its high-quality, grass-fed beef. One dish to look out for is beef cooked with coconut milk. This dish usually comes with steamed rice or some boiled root vegetables on the side. The coconut milk adds a creamy richness to the tender beef, making it a simple yet unforgettable meal. Don’t leave the islands without tasting this fusion of coconut and beef.
Simboro
Simboro is a perfect example of how Vanuatu’s local cuisine transforms humble ingredients. It’s a dish of dumplings made from grated root vegetables, wrapped in cabbage leaves, and then boiled. The dumplings are cooked in coconut milk, giving the dish a creamy texture and mild flavor.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy on the palate but deeply rooted in local tradition, this is it. You’ll find Simboro often served during local feasts or celebrations, making it a cultural experience as much as a culinary one.
Seafood and Fresh Fish
Being an island nation, it’s no surprise that fish and other seafood are central to Vanuatu’s cuisine. The most common fish you’ll find are tuna, lobster, and mahi-mahi. These are often grilled, steamed, or cooked in coconut milk, letting the flavor of the seafood shine through.
Grilled Fish
One of the best ways to enjoy Vanuatu’s fresh fish is simply grilled. You’ll find this served in beachside cafes, street stalls, and even fine-dining restaurants. The fish is usually cooked whole, and locals like to add a spice rub before grilling. The result? An explosion of flavor with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. A must-try, especially if you’re relaxing by the water!
Coconut Crab
If you’re seeking something a little more exotic, try the coconut crab. As the name suggests, these crabs live by eating coconuts, which gives their meat a naturally sweet flavor. They’re a protected species, so don’t expect huge portions, but even a small serving is a true local delicacy.
It’s commonly served grilled or cooked with coconut milk. The tender, slightly sweet crab meat combined with the dish’s creamy base will make you appreciate why this crab is so highly valued in the Pacific islands.
Popular Street Foods
Looking for a quick meal? The street food in Vanuatu is tasty, affordable, and often gives you a glimpse into everyday local life. Most street vendors set up in markets, by the beach, or around small village centers. Grab a snack or a quick plate, and you’ll be eating like a true Ni-Vanuatu (the term for local people).
Banana Bread
This street food classic is simple but delicious. Vendors sell fresh banana bread that is perfectly soft, warm, and often served with pineapple or a drizzle of local honey. It’s the perfect snack if you’re wandering around a market or exploring the local towns. Bite into a slice, and you’ll taste the sweetness of Vanuatu’s local bananas.
Vanuatu Donuts
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, look out for Vanuatu’s version of donuts. Usually sold at street stalls, these donuts are deep-fried, soft, and covered in sugar. Although they may look simple, their airy texture and satisfying taste make them a perfect quick snack or breakfast treat.
Where to Eat in Vanuatu
Vanuatu offers plenty of options for where to enjoy a meal. From basic food stalls to high-end dining, you’ll have access to different ways of trying traditional foods. Below are a few of the key places to check out, no matter where you are on the islands.
Local Markets
Markets are the heart of daily life in Vanuatu, and they’re also your best opportunity to taste homemade, authentic cuisine for cheap prices. Head to the vibrant Port Vila Market on Efate or Luganville Market on Santo. You’ll find stalls selling freshly made Lap Lap, grilled fish, and other traditional meals. Markets are also great places to pick up fresh tropical fruit.
Beach Canteens and Street Stalls
If you’re spending the day near a beach, make sure to check out the local canteens nearby. These small outdoor kitchens serve up things like grilled seafood, meaning you can enjoy your meal while watching the waves. Street stalls also pop up all over Vanuatu, offering fresh coconuts, donuts, and small dishes like Tuluk.
Fine Dining in Vanuatu
For an upscale dining experience, many resorts and restaurants in Vanuatu focus on farm-to-table cuisine using organic, local produce. You’ll find international dishes fused with traditional flavors, offering a bit of elegance while still feeling connected to the islands.
Recommended places include:
- Le Lagon Resort – Known for its use of fresh, local ingredients.
- The Stone Grill Restaurant – Famous for letting diners cook their own meats on hot stones.
- The Havannah Restaurant – A romantic spot offering fine dining with incredible sunset views.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re trying Lap Lap for the first time or grabbing some banana bread at a street stall, eating in Vanuatu is an essential part of the travel experience. The dishes are simple yet flavorful, using fresh, local ingredients in ways that honor the cultural heritage of the islands. Make sure to explore not just the restaurants but also the markets and street vendors for a full glimpse into Vanuatu’s unique culinary world.
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