Vanuatu - Eating
Port Vila has become famous as a diners’ paradise. Fresh seafood and local produce are superbly prepared into tantalising dishes. When you dine out in Port Vila you are assured of a fantastic experience as there is everything on offer here. Try the local Poulet fish or a fresh lobster for seafood or get to know cuisines that are influenced from traditional recipes as well as French and other nationalities, the variety is simply astounding. Try a succulent Santo beef steak, local Teoma prawns or be adventurous and sample rousette (flying fox), nautou (ground pigeon) and escargots (snails).
The national dish is Laplap, made from grounded yam or taro roots, often with pieces of pork, chicken, fish or flying fox added, wrapped in spinach leaves that are then soaked in a coconut and water mixture before being cooked in an underground oven. For vegetarians there is the traditional nalot.
At the outer islands, restaurants outside resorts are very few. Most of the menus will have limited choices and be confined to local produce and island foods. Rice is included in many meals.
Sample fresh vegetables, fruit and cuisine at local markets and for self caterers these are the places to stock up at budget prices for the best food on offer.
L´Houstalet
This is Port Vila’s most famous French restaurant. Note that they have not changed their meny in 30 years. If it´s that good it must be worth a visit.
Le Lagon
Wild Ginger is an asian fusion restaurant and teppanyaki bar. Should be excellent for fresh fish such as sashimi and sushi.
Tilly`s
Here, overlooking the harbour, you can get anything from tapas to NZ lamb. All displayed on a blackboard menu.
Chill Restaurant & Bar
Near the markets with great view over the harbourside, this is the perfect spot for lunch. Good food and good value with a terrific lunch special that includes a soft drink, beer or glass of wine.
Tamanu on the Beach
Said to be one of Port Vila’s prettiest locations - this place lies overlooking the beach and ocean of the South Pacific.
