10 Top Traditional Dishes in Mauritius You Must Try
An Island Feast for the Senses.
Mauritius is often celebrated for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and multicultural charm, but there’s another element that often steals the hearts of travelers: the food. Blending African, Indian, Chinese, French, and Creole influences, traditional dishes in Mauritius reflect the country’s rich cultural tapestry.
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Whether you’re wandering through local markets in Port Louis or dining at a seaside eatery in Grand Baie, the culinary scene of this island nation is an unforgettable part of the journey. Here’s a deep dive into the top traditional dishes in Mauritius you absolutely must try.
1. Dholl Puri: Mauritius’ National Street Food
If there’s one dish that defines traditional Mauritian cuisine, it’s Dholl Puri. These soft, thin flatbreads are made with ground split peas and usually served rolled up with curry (often butter bean or rougaille), chutneys, and pickles.
Where to Try It:
- Dewa & Sons, Port Louis
- Central Market, Curepipe
Pro Tip:
Eat it hot off the griddle with extra chili for a spicy kick!
2. Rougaille: Tomato-Based Creole Curry
Rougaille is a Creole-style tomato stew made with garlic, ginger, onions, thyme, and chilies. It can be served with sausages (Rougaille Saucisse), salted fish, or tofu for vegetarians. Simple yet bursting with flavor, it’s a comfort dish found in almost every Mauritian household. It is one of the top traditional dishes in Mauritius.
Best With:
- Steamed white rice or farata (flatbread)
3. Mine Frite: Mauritian Fried Noodles
Brought by Chinese immigrants and adapted into a local favorite, Mine Frite is stir-fried noodles with vegetables, eggs, meat, or seafood, typically topped with soy sauce and chili paste. It’s fast, flavorful, and found everywhere from street vendors to upscale restaurants. It is one of the top traditional dishes in Mauritius.
Where to Find It:
- Chinatown, Port Louis
- Street stalls in Flic en Flac
4. Octopus Curry (Cari Ourite)
Seafood is a staple in traditional dishes in Mauritius, and octopus curry is a must-try for adventurous foodies. Made with tender octopus simmered in a blend of spices, tomatoes, and coconut milk, it reflects the island’s close connection to the sea. It is one of the top traditional dishes in Mauritius.
Best Places:
- Beachfront restaurants in Mahébourg
- La Case du Pêcheur, Bambous Virieux
5. Farata (Mauritian Roti)
Inspired by Indian paratha, farata is a soft flatbread served with a variety of curries, chutneys, and pickles. You’ll often see locals queuing for it during lunch hours, it’s a beloved quick bite and deeply embedded in daily life. It is one of the top traditional dishes in Mauritius.
6. Boulettes: Chinese-Style Dumplings
Another gift from the Chinese community in Mauritius, boulettes are dumplings made of meat, seafood, or vegetables. They’re usually served in a flavorful broth and enjoyed as a light meal or snack. It is one of the top traditional dishes in Mauritius.
Popular Places:
- Dragon Vert, Rose Hill
- Boulettes shops in the Curepipe market
7. Biryani: A Spiced Rice Feast
Mauritian biryani is a festive rice dish layered with marinated meat (often chicken or lamb), potatoes, fried onions, and aromatic spices. It is one of the top traditional dishes in Mauritius. While it shares roots with Indian biryani, the local twist includes boiled eggs and is often cooked using the dum (steam) method.
Best For:
- Celebrations, weddings, or a hearty family meal
8. Vindaye: Mauritian Pickled Curry
Vindaye is a tangy, mustard-based dish influenced by Indian vindaloo. It’s usually made with fish (Vindaye Poisson), but can also feature chicken, octopus, or vegetables. It’s traditionally served cold, often with rice and lentils.
9. Alouda: Mauritius’ Answer to a Milkshake
This beloved local drink is a sweet, milky refreshment made with agar jelly, basil seeds (like chia), and flavored with vanilla or rose syrup. It’s especially popular at street markets and a great way to beat the tropical heat.
Best Served:
- Ice cold with a scoop of ice cream on top (if you’re feeling indulgent)
10. Gâteau Piment (Chili Cakes)
Gâteau Piment are deep-fried lentil balls seasoned with chili, green onions, and coriander. Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, they’re the go-to Mauritian snack. You’ll often find locals munching on these with a side of bread and butter.
Spiciness Level:
- Moderate to high, depending on the vendor
Where to Try Traditional Dishes in Mauritius
Local Markets
- Port Louis Central Market
- Mahebourg Market
- Flacq Market
These are hotspots for street food and authentic home-style meals.
Restaurants
- Escale Créole, Moka – for a curated Creole food experience
- Chez Tante Athalie, Pamplemousses – traditional fare in a colonial setting
- Happy Rajah, Grand Baie – Indian-Mauritian fusion
The Cultural Story Behind the Cuisine
The diversity in traditional dishes in Mauritius stems from its unique colonial past. Indian indentured labourers, African slaves, Chinese merchants, and French settlers all contributed to the island’s food culture. As a result, every bite in Mauritius carries a blend of histories, flavors, and stories.
Mauritian cuisine is not just about food; it’s about community, celebration, and legacy.
Tips for Food Travelers in Mauritius
- Ask for extra chutney: Most dishes come with an array of homemade chutneys and pickles, don’t skip them!
- Mind the spice level: Dishes like vindaye and gâteau piment can be surprisingly hot.
- Try a food tour: Join a guided street food walk in Port Louis for a curated introduction to Mauritian flavors.
- Eat like a local: Sit at a crowded food stall, share a table, and enjoy the authentic experience.
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Adventure Worth Taking
From steaming bowls of boulettes to street-style dholl puris and rich biryanis, traditional dishes in Mauritius offer a sensory journey unlike any other. Eating in Mauritius is a celebration of the island’s multicultural soul, and for foodies, it’s paradise on a plate.
So, on your next trip to this island gem, don’t just admire the turquoise waters and sugarcane fields; take your taste buds on a journey through Mauritius’ heart and heritage.
1. Is Mauritian cuisine spicy?
Yes, many traditional dishes in Mauritius have a kick of spice, especially those with Indian or Creole roots. However, most meals are served with side chutneys and pickles, allowing you to adjust the heat to your taste.
2. Are vegetarian options widely available in Mauritian cuisine?
Absolutely. Many traditional dishes in Mauritius are naturally vegetarian, including:
Dholl Puri with butter bean curry, Farata (flatbread) with vegetable curries
Vegetable biryani, Lentil soups and rougaille with tofu or paneer.
3. What is the national dish of Mauritius?
While there isn’t one official national dish, Dholl Puri is often considered Mauritius’ unofficial national food due to its popularity and cultural significance.
4. Are traditional Mauritian dishes suitable for kids?
Yes! Many dishes like fried noodles, vegetable curries, and biryani can be made mild and kid-friendly. Most restaurants accommodate less spicy versions for children.
5. Is street food in Mauritius safe to eat?
Generally, yes—especially at busy stalls with a high turnover of food. To stay safe:
Choose vendors with clean setups and local crowds. Eat food that is freshly cooked or hot. Avoid raw salads or unpeeled fruits from street carts
6. Can I learn to cook traditional Mauritian dishes while visiting?
Yes! Several places across the island offer cooking classes, including:
Escale Créole in Moka, Lakaz Mama in Grand Baie. These experiences often include market visits, hands-on cooking, and shared meals.
7. What are some traditional Mauritian desserts?
Napolitaines – shortbread cookies filled with jam and topped with icing
Gateau Patate – sweet potato pastries with coconut
Alouda – a sweet, milky drink with basil seeds and agar jelly
Poudine Maïs – cornmeal pudding flavored with vanilla and coconut
