Explore the mouthwatering flavors of Mauritius! With influences from Indian, Chinese, African, and European cultures, this island’s cuisine offers a diverse range of delicious dishes. Whether it’s sizzling street food or exquisite pastries, there’s something for everyone. While Mauritius is known for its luxurious beach hotels, the growing foodie scene is stealing the show. Reflecting on the cultural heritage, Mauritian cuisine blends Creole, French, Chinese, and Indian influences. Check out our list of top Mauritian delicacies and top restaurants for an unforgettable culinary experience. Indulge in the Best Must-Try Mauritian Dishes and get ready for a food adventure like no other!
Photo Credit: Yash Gooly from Pixabay
Discover the Best Must-Try Mauritian Dishes for a Culinary Adventure!
Dholl Puri/ Roti
If Mauritius had a signature dish, Dholl Puri would undoubtedly claim the crown. Locals eagerly queue up for this paper-thin delight from their favorite street vendors. If you haven’t experienced it yet, it’s time to indulge in this culinary treasure! This savory Indian-style flatbread is a staple of Mauritian cuisine, enjoyed at any time of day and paired with a variety of savory or sweet accompaniments. The combination of salty Dholl Puri and sweet kheer is simply divine! Whether as an everyday lunch, a quick snack, or a special treat during Indian marriage ceremonies, Dholl Puri never fails to satisfy. Made from ground yellow split peas, the dough is stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cooked split peas, chutney, and pickles. Served hot and fresh with a side of curry, it’s a feast for both the stomach and the soul. Dholl Puri, along with its cousin Farata/Roti, reigns supreme as the favorite street food of Mauritians.
Here are some of the local favorite spots to indulge in Dholl Puri and Roti:
- Dewa & Sons – Situated in Curepipe
- Chez Bye Dholl Puri and Roti in Beau Bassin-Rose Hill
- Chef Vor Dholl Puri stall at La Place Cap Tamarin
- Farata/Roti in the London Way Food Court of Black River
Gateau Piment
Gateau Piment, also known as Gateau Dhal, is a quintessential Mauritian snack that holds a special place in the hearts of locals. These crispy fritters, akin to chili poppers, are made from yellow split peas, spring onions, and sliced green chilies, though the spice level can be adjusted to suit your preference. Popularly found at food stalls across the island, Gateau Piment is a must-try during your stay in Mauritius.
You’re likely to encounter these savory treats at street food stalls nestled in markets or along roadside vendors.
What makes Gateau Piment so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of crunchy texture and flavorful spices, especially when paired with fiery coriander chutney. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or tucked inside a fluffy baguette, these chili fritters are sure to leave you craving more. Other favorite snacks among Mauritians are all sorts of vegetable fritters. Most of them can also easily be prepared at home: Grato Brinzel (eggplant fritters), Chana Puri (deep-fried dough with potato filling), Gato Arouille (deep-fried taro), and many more. So, don’t miss the opportunity to savor this beloved Mauritian delicacy during your culinary adventures on the island!
Here are some local favorite Gateau Piment spots to indulge in:
- S&N Gateau Piment in Quatre Bornes
- Gato Pima Rozil in Beau Bassin-Rose Hill
- Stall at Place Cap Tamarin
Boulettes
Boulettes, small steamed dumplings, are a beloved street food found all across Mauritius. These flavorful delights come in various fillings like shrimp, lamb, chicken, and fish, served in a hot broth with vegetables and noodles. Originating from the Cantonese community of Mauritius, boulettes offer a perfect light dinner or snack option.
In Mauritius, dumplings known as “saw mai,” “niuk yan,” “en pow niuk,” and “teo kon” are popular variations, made with fish, minced meat, prawns, calamari, and chayote. While boulettes can be found throughout the island, Grand Bay stands out as a hotspot for this delicacy, especially during rainy days or the cooler Mauritian winters.
Despite its unexpected presence, Mauritius boasts a vibrant dim sum scene, thanks to the influence of Chinese migrants in the late 19th century. First Restaurant in Port Louis is renowned for its exceptional dumplings, alongside traditional rice and meat dishes. For many Mauritians, a steaming bowl of boulette goodness is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion.
Some of the local favorites to enjoy Boulettes in Mauritius:
- Boulette Palace -Nou Baz Boulettes in Quatre Bornes
- Ti Kouloir in Grand Baie
- Blond boulette – boulette la baie in Tamarin
Mine Frite and Mine Bouille
Mine Frite and Mine Bouille are quintessential dishes in Mauritian-Chinese cuisine, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the island. Mine Frite, also known as Mauritian fried noodles, is a beloved street food that has gained popularity thanks to the vibrant Chinese community in Mauritius. These noodles are typically stir-fried with an assortment of vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, and pumpkin leaves, infused with flavorful garlic sauce and green chili paste. Chinese eateries throughout Mauritius serve excellent Mine Frite and Mine Bouille. Look for local favorites in towns like Port Louis, Grand Baie, and Curepipe.
On the other hand, Mine Bouille offers a simpler yet equally satisfying noodle experience. Boiled noodles are served with a topping of chopped spring onions and an egg, accompanied by your choice of meat or vegetables. For a heartier meal, Mine Bouille can be paired with Boulettes, adding depth to the dish.
Accompaniments like “chatini pomme d’amour” or “oeuf roti” further enhance the flavors of Mine Frite and Mine Bouille, providing a burst of tanginess or sweetness to complement the savory noodles. Each eatery adds its unique twist to these dishes, making them a must-try for visitors exploring Mauritian cuisine.
Whether enjoyed at street food stalls, local eateries, or Chinese restaurants across the island, Mine Frite and Mine Bouille offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, showcasing the diverse culinary landscape of Mauritius.
Some of the local favorites to enjoy these dishes in Mauritius:
- Ah Youn in Flic en Flac
- Ti Kouloir in Grand Baie
- Lanzhou Hand-Pulled Noodles in Port Louis
- King Dragon in Quatre Bornes
Biryani
Biryani holds a special place in Mauritian cuisine, offering a delightful blend of fragrant rice, aromatic spices, and tender meat or fish. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, Mauritian biryani boasts a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from its counterparts elsewhere.
The secret to Mauritian biryani lies in its carefully balanced spices, which are meticulously blended to enhance the essence of saffron and caramelized onions without overpowering them. Each bite of this flavorful dish is infused with the warmth of turmeric, cinnamon, and a medley of other spices, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.
Preparation of Mauritian biryani is an artful process, involving the layering of fragrant buttery rice with seasoned chicken, lamb, or fish, along with potatoes, fresh coriander, mint, and peas. Though time-consuming, the result is well worth the effort, making it the perfect centerpiece for special occasions and family gatherings.
You can find Mauritian biryani at most restaurants across the island, as well as street food stalls in bustling markets like Flacq and Vacoas. With its rich heritage and tantalizing aroma, Mauritian biryani is cherished by locals and visitors alike, embodying the diverse culinary tapestry of the island. Whether enjoyed with pickles and chutneys or savored on its own, each mouthful of this beloved dish is a celebration of Mauritian culture and tradition.
Some of the local favorites to enjoy Biriyani in Mauritius:
Seafood
As an island nation surrounded by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, it’s no surprise that Mauritius boasts an abundance of delectable seafood dishes. From succulent crab curry to zesty coriander and chili fish, the island’s cuisine is teeming with flavors from the sea.
One dish that stands out is the renowned curry, Vindaye. Inspired by the Indian Vindaloo, Vindaye features fish cooked in a rich blend of turmeric, mustard, garlic, and ginger, resulting in an intensely flavorful culinary experience. Often tangy, with lightly pickled fish, it’s a beloved favorite among locals and visitors alike.
For an authentic taste of this beloved dish, head to:
Bol Renverse
Another Chinese-Mauritian dish is the mesmerizing Bol Renverse, also known as the “upside-down bowl.” Crafted in reverse, Bol Renverse begins with a fried egg nestled at the bottom of a bowl, followed by a medley of stir-fried chicken, vegetables, and greens infused with savory soy sauce. Layered atop this flavorful base is a generous serving of fragrant rice, forming the top layer of the dish. Bol Renverse is a complete meal in a bowl, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
You can find Bol Renverse in local Mauritian-Chinese restaurants and is a must-try dish that showcases the culinary diversity of Mauritius.
Best spots to enjoy this unique dish:
Fresh Fruits
Mauritius, being a tropical paradise, offers a plethora of fresh fruits that are perfect for snacking, especially during a relaxing day at the beach. From juicy Victoria pineapples to ripe mangoes and refreshing coconuts, you’ll find an array of delicious options available from cart-vendors strolling along the sandy shores.
For those seeking a more adventurous flavor experience, there’s the option of trying a sweet-salty fruit salad with a hint of chili. It’s a unique beach-style snack that tantalizes your taste buds, transitioning from refreshingly sweet to spicy and sour with each bite. To balance out the heat, consider sipping on some refreshing coconut water, readily available from vendors in small bags or large jars.
Best places to fid these stalls:
You’ll find numerous vendors along the roadside and certainly at every public beach across Mauritius like Flic en Flac, Le Morne, Mon Choisy and etc.
Curries
Curries have become a significant element in Mauritian cuisine, influenced by the strong presence of Indian culinary traditions. However, they differ from traditional Indian curries. Creole curries, for instance, are based on garlic, onion, and curry leaves. Often enjoyed with rice and bread, Mauritian curries are generally milder in spice compared to their Indian counterparts.
Typically served with roti for soaking up the sauce, along with rice and accompaniments like lime, mango, or vegetable pickles.
You can find traditional curries served at most restaurants, embodying the essence of Mauritian home cooking. While “Sept Cari” (Seven Curries) holds cultural significance for specific events, it remains a beloved dish among all ethnicities on the island. This vegetarian meal usually served at Hindu weddings or events, features seven or more vegetable curries alongside “ti puri”, a fried flatbread on a banana leaf. The traditional selection of seven curries often includes butter bean, spinach, rougaille, mashed pumpkin, chouchou (sautéed chayote), and banana curry, with variations such as jackfruit curry and ‘gato piment’ curry also available.
Find the best spots to relish curry here:
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