Mauritius isn’t just stunning beaches and turquoise waters; it’s a paradise for food lovers too! From spicy street snacks to hearty local specialities, these 6 authentic local dishes offer a true taste of the island’s rich culture and flavours.

1. Rougaille

The best restaurants in Mauritius offer the local dishes for all food lovers to get lost in. Creole cuisine is a speciality in Mauritius, and its dishes are a fan favourite among all. Rougaille is one of these special dishes that’s a type of tomato stew, infused with multiple condiments like garlic, onions, and varieties of local spices. This dish is most commonly paired with rice and other meats as well. It’s the perfect sweet and tangy dish that brings out the multiculturalism of the island country.

2. Dholl Puri

Among the many street food options in Mauritius, having dholl puri truly is the ultimate experience. It’s a must-try for all visitors as it’s something that just bursts with flavour. It’s made of flatbread stuffed with a curried mixture, often made from peas, potatoes, or even chutneys and pickles. Port Louis is a good place to grab authentic puri for sure.

Yoann74, Dholl puri, CC BY-SA 4.0

3. Fish Vindaye

Fish Vindaye is a local twist on an Indian version of pickle curry. What’s truly special about this dish is that it has extremely bold flavours; it’s made from ginger, garlic, turmeric, and mustard seeds. These dishes truly reflect the island’s multicultural aspects, showcasing unity through the aromatic flavours. This spicy and tangy dish is often served with bread or rice and is truly a tasty meal to try. It helps that Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas offers a wonderful rendition of this dish, alongside luxury accommodations and facilities.

4. Mine Frite

This stir-fried noodles dish is a Chinese-inspired dish that is prepared with soy sauce and other local spices. This dish is often mixed with a variety of vegetables that are stir-fried wok-style and served as a simple yet comforting meal that’s beloved across the island. For the extra spicy lovers, add more chilli sauce and enjoy the dish. It’s a perfect option for a quick stomach fill and even to take on the go.

5. Octopus curry

Thanks to the vast Indian Ocean that surrounds the island, it’s easy to see how Mauritius can become any seafood lover’s personal paradise. Naturally, most of their dishes are seafood-based. This succulent octopus curry is a great example. Cooked till tender, the curry is made from a coconut base, which is made flavourful with local spices. It’s often served with rice, and truly takes its tasters on a gastronomical journey!

6. Alouda

This drink may seem very similar to the Indian drink Falooda, which it is based on. Alouda has been given its own Mauritian twist, made with milk, agar jelly, and sweetened with rose syrup, along with basil seeds. It is the perfect drink to beat the heat on the island. It’s best to enjoy cold and fresh because then the flavours absolutely burst, which is why it’s served fresh with ice.