Bora Bora offers a culinary paradise beyond its breathtaking scenery. From the freshest seafood prepared in traditional Polynesian styles to unique island-infused spirits and sweets, a gastronomic adventure awaits. Prepare your taste buds for a journey through the must-try delicacies of this South Pacific gem.
Embarking on a Culinary Journey in Bora Bora
Imagine stepping off the plane, the fragrant air filled with the scent of tropical flowers and the promise of adventure. But beyond the turquoise waters and luxurious overwater bungalows, Bora Bora holds a secret: a vibrant culinary scene waiting to be explored. It’s not just about fine dining; it’s about experiencing the island’s culture through its food. This article will guide you through those unforgettable flavors, giving you the insider tips to truly savor Bora Bora.
Poisson Cru: Bora Bora’s National Treasure
Let’s dive straight into the heart of Polynesian cuisine with Poisson Cru, often considered the unofficial national dish. At its core, it’s raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk. Sounds simple, right? But the magic lies in the details. The fish is typically tuna, incredibly fresh, often caught that very morning. The lime juice “cooks” the fish, giving it a firm yet tender texture. The coconut milk adds a creamy sweetness that perfectly balances the acidity. It’s usually mixed with diced vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and sometimes even a touch of ginger or chili for a kick.
Where to Find It: Poisson Cru is ubiquitous in Bora Bora. You’ll find it on almost every restaurant menu, from casual beach shacks to high-end resorts. For an authentic experience, try the smaller family-run restaurants, known locally as “roulottes.” These are often food trucks or stalls serving up delicious and affordable meals. Alternatively, ask your hotel concierge for their recommendation; they often have insider knowledge of the best local spots.
The Experience: The beauty of Poisson Cru lies in its simplicity and freshness. The taste is light, refreshing, and bursting with tropical flavors. It’s the perfect dish for a hot day, especially enjoyed with a Hinano beer (the local brew) overlooking the lagoon. Don’t be afraid to try different variations; each chef has their own unique take on this classic dish. Some add a dash of vanilla, while others might include a hint of grapefruit juice for extra zing.
Cost: Expect to pay anywhere from 1500 to 3000 XPF (approximately $15-$30 USD) for a generous serving of Poisson Cru, depending on the restaurant and location.
The Allure of Vanilla Rum: A Bora Bora Specialty
Beyond the fresh seafood, Bora Bora boasts another culinary gem: Vanilla Rum. Vanilla beans thrive in French Polynesia, and they are infused into rum to create a drink that is both potent and subtly sweet. Imagine the warmth of the rum perfectly complemented by the rich, aromatic vanilla – a truly unique flavor combination.
Where to Find It: Many local distilleries and shops in Bora Bora offer their own versions of vanilla rum. Look for smaller, independent vendors for truly artisanal products. Shops in Vaitape, the main town, and the airport offer a variety of options. Some resorts also create their own house-infused rums.
The Experience: Vanilla rum is incredibly versatile. You can sip it neat as an after-dinner digestif, enjoying the smooth, complex flavors. It also makes a fantastic base for cocktails. Try it in a Vanilla Rum Punch with pineapple juice, lime juice, and a splash of grenadine. Or simply add it to a glass of cola for a refreshing twist. What’s special is drinking it while watching the sunset over Mount Otemanu; the colors of the sky blend with the sweet aroma of the vanilla, creating a sensory experience you won’t forget. You can even purchase vanilla beans to create your own infusions at home, extending that island vibe after you’re back.
Cost: The price of vanilla rum varies widely depending on the brand and bottle size. A small bottle of artisanal vanilla rum can cost around 2000-5000 XPF (approximately $20-$50 USD).
Fei (Mountain Banana): An Unexpected Delight
While bananas might seem like a common fruit, the Fei banana of Bora Bora is anything but ordinary. These bananas are larger than standard bananas, with a distinctive reddish-orange peel and flesh. But the real difference lies in the way they’re prepared; they’re cooked, not eaten raw, giving them a unique starchy texture and savory flavor.
Where to Find it: You can find Pei banana on island food tours or specific Bora Bora themed dinners or buffets. They are not typically eaten daily, but can be found in local farmers markets.
The Experience: Pei bananas are usually baked, boiled, or grilled. The cooking process brings out a subtle sweetness and gives them a slightly smoky flavor. They are often served as a side dish alongside fish or meat, providing a hearty and satisfying counterpoint to the main course. Don’t expect the soft, sweet taste of a regular banana; Pei banana has a firmer texture and a more complex flavor profile. They are high in vitamins and minerals.
Cost: If you find them at a market, Pei bananas are relatively inexpensive. If served as part of a meal, they would be included in the meal’s overall cost.
The Magic of Fresh Seafood: Beyond Poisson Cru
Bora Bora’s location in the heart of the South Pacific means that fresh seafood is abundant. While Poisson Cru is the star, there’s a whole ocean of other delicacies to explore. Think grilled mahi-mahi, seared tuna, succulent lobster, and delicate prawns, all caught fresh from the surrounding waters.
Where to Find It: Most restaurants in Bora Bora, especially those located near the water, specialize in seafood. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort and the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora are renowned for their upscale dining experiences and exceptional seafood dishes. For a more casual setting, try the beachside restaurants in Matira Beach.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
The Experience: The key to enjoying Bora Bora’s seafood is to appreciate the freshness. The fish is often cooked simply, to allow the natural flavors to shine through. Grilled with a touch of lime and herbs, or pan-seared with a hint of garlic butter, the seafood is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Ask about the “catch of the day” to sample the freshest offerings. Also, consider participating in a fishing excursion! It’s especially exciting not only to spend an afternoon in the blue waters but also taste first hand the dinner that you’ve caught.
Cost: Seafood prices vary depending on the type of fish and the restaurant. Expect to pay upwards of 4000 XPF (approximately $40 USD) for a main course featuring fresh seafood at a mid-range restaurant.
Coconut Bread (Pain au Coco): A Sweet Morning Treat
Start your day the Bora Bora way with Pain au Coco, a sweet and fluffy coconut bread. It’s a simple treat, but the combination of warm bread and the rich flavor of coconut is simply irresistible. This is a breakfast staple for many locals and a delightful way to experience a taste of the island’s culinary heritage.
Where to Find it: Some resorts offer it as part of their breakfast buffet. It’s also typically available at various local bakeries scattered throughout the island. Ask your hotel where the nearest bakery is. Don’t judge a bread by its looks; hidden corners often yield the best finds.
The Experience: The best Pain au Coco is warm and slightly crisp on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside. The coconut flavor is subtle but present, adding a touch of sweetness and richness. It is often eaten plain, with a cup of coffee, or toasted with butter and jam.
Cost: Coconut bread typically costs a few hundred XPF (a couple of dollars) for a slice or a small loaf.
The Polynesian Oven: A Taste of Tradition
For a truly authentic culinary experience, seek out a traditional Polynesian feast cooked in an earth oven, known as an ahima’a. This is a method of cooking that has been passed down through generations, involving burying food in a pit lined with heated stones. The slow-cooking process imparts a unique smoky flavor to the food, making it incredibly tender and delicious.
Where to Find It: Some resorts occasionally host Polynesian feasts or “Motu Picnics” that feature food cooked in an earth oven. Check with your hotel concierge to see if any events are scheduled during your stay. Some local families will also offer private earth oven feasts, but these are harder to find.
The Experience: The typical earth oven feast includes a variety of meats, such as pig, chicken, and fish wrapped in banana leaves. These are cooked alongside root vegetables like taro and sweet potatoes. The food is incredibly flavorful and tender, infused with the smoky aroma of the volcanic stones and the earthy sweetness of the banana leaves. The feast is often accompanied by traditional Polynesian music and dance, making it a truly immersive cultural experience. Be prepared to eat with your hands, as this is the traditional way to enjoy an earth oven feast.
Cost: Polynesian feasts can be quite expensive, ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 XPF (approximately $100-$200 USD) per person, depending on the resort and the scale of the event.
Hinano Beer: The Taste of the Islands
No culinary journey in Bora Bora is complete without sampling Hinano Beer, the official beer of French Polynesia. This light and refreshing lager is the perfect accompaniment to the island’s cuisine, especially on a hot day. While not unique to Bora Bora, Hinano is so intertwined with the local culture that it feels like a must-try.
Where to Find It: Hinano Beer is available at virtually every bar, restaurant, and store in Bora Bora. You won’t have any trouble finding it.
The Experience: Best enjoyed ice-cold, Hinano is a crisp, clean lager with a subtle hint of bitterness. It’s the perfect beer to sip while lounging on the beach, watching the sunset, or enjoying a delicious meal. The iconic bottle, adorned with a vahine (Polynesian woman) silhouette, adds to the overall experience.
Cost: Expect to pay around 500-800 XPF (approximately $5-$8 USD) for a bottle of Hinano Beer at a bar or restaurant.
Tropical Fruits: A Burst of Natural Sweetness
Given Bora Bora’s tropical climate, its fruits are incredibly fresh, juicy, and flavorful. From sweet mangoes and pineapples to tangy passion fruit and papaya, the island is a haven for fruit lovers. Many of these fruits are grown locally, ensuring maximum freshness.
Where to Find It: Visit local markets. The central marketplace in Vaitape is a great place to find a wide variety of tropical fruits. Alternatively, many resorts grow their own fruits and offer them as part of their breakfast buffet.
The Experience: There are many ways to enjoy all kinds of fresh selections! Eat them on their own as a refreshing snack, add them to salads, or use them in smoothies and desserts. A simple fruit platter is the perfect way to start your day, or enjoy a fresh fruit smoothie after a swim in the lagoon.
Cost: The price of tropical fruits varies depending on the season and availability. Expect to pay a few hundred XPF for a kilo of fruit at a local market.
Snacks & Street Eats: Exploring Culinary Delights
Don’t underestimate the snacks and street foods of Bora Bora! While most people focus on the fine dining experiences, the island also boasts a vibrant street food scene with plenty of local gems to discover. Here are a few to look out for:
- Roulottes: These are food trucks or mobile eateries that serve a variety of affordable and delicious meals. You can find everything from Poisson Cru and grilled fish to burgers and crepes. They are usually located near the main towns and beaches, and are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
- Mitihā: Coconut bread soaked in coconut milk then grilled. Can be sweet or savory (with fish or meat). Very traditional.
- Pātarā: Bread filled with coconut, sugar, and vanilla. Served hot!
Where to Find It: Street food vendors can typically be found in the main town in Vaitape, on Matira Beach, and near popular tourist attractions.
The Experience: Exploring the street food scene is a great way to sample local cuisine at affordable prices. It’s also a chance to interact with local vendors and experience the island’s laid-back culture. Be adventurous and try something new! You might discover your new favorite Bora Bora dish.
Cost: Street food is generally very affordable, with most dishes costing between 500 and 2000 XPF (approximately $5-$20 USD).
Fine Dining: Luxury on a Plate
Of course, Bora Bora is also famous for its luxurious resorts and world-class restaurants. If you’re looking for a truly special culinary experience, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few of the most highly-regarded restaurants in Bora Bora:
- Lagoon by Jean-Georges (St. Regis Bora Bora Resort): This overwater restaurant offers stunning views of Mount Otemanu and a menu featuring innovative French cuisine with Polynesian influences.
- Fare Manu (Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora): A beachfront restaurant offering a diverse menu of international and Polynesian dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood.
- Bloody Mary’s: This iconic restaurant is a Bora Bora institution, known for its laid-back atmosphere, fresh seafood, and extensive cocktail menu.
Where to Find It: You can make reservations at these restaurants online or through your hotel concierge.
The Experience: Fine dining in Bora Bora is about more than just the food; it’s about the overall experience. Expect impeccable service, stunning ambiance, and exquisitely presented dishes. Be sure to dress appropriately (smart casual is usually sufficient) and be prepared to spend a significant amount of money.
Cost: Fine dining in Bora Bora is expensive, with main courses typically costing upwards of 5000 XPF (approximately $50 USD). Expect to pay even more for wine and cocktails.
Tips for the Bora Bora Foodie
To make the most of your culinary adventures in Bora Bora, here are a few helpful tips:
- Learn a few basic French phrases: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, knowing a few basic French phrases will be appreciated by locals.
- Try the local specialties: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try the local dishes. You might discover a new favorite food.
- Ask for recommendations: Locals are the best source of information about where to eat. Ask your hotel concierge or other locals for their recommendations.
- Be mindful of prices: Bora Bora is an expensive destination, so be sure to check prices before you order.
- Make reservations: If you’re planning to dine at a popular restaurant, it’s always a good idea to make reservations.
- Embrace the island vibe: Relax, slow down, and enjoy the food! Bora Bora is a place to savor the moment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the local currency in Bora Bora?
The local currency in Bora Bora is the French Pacific Franc (XPF), also known as CFP franc. Credit cards are widely accepted at resorts, restaurants, and shops, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller expenses, like tipping or buying souvenirs at local markets.
What are some common allergies to be aware of?
The most common allergy to be aware of in Bora Bora is seafood. Many dishes contain fish, shellfish, or other seafood products. If you have a seafood allergy, be sure to inform your server before ordering. Other common allergies include nuts, gluten, and dairy. Again, it is always best to inform restaurant staff of your allergies. Keep an allergy card that translates your needs to french.
Is the tap water safe to drink in Bora Bora?
While the tap water in Bora Bora is generally considered safe, it’s best to drink bottled water if you are unsure, or if you have a sensitive stomach. Bottled water is readily available at most stores and restaurants.
What are some local customs regarding tipping?
Tipping isn’t as widely expected in Bora Bora as it is in some other countries. Service fees are very commonly included in restaurant bills. However, if you receive exceptional service, it’s always appreciated to leave a small tip (around 5-10%).
What’s the best way to get around Bora Bora?
Many people will rent a car. This is an option, but the island is small and there is limited space. Rental scooters are also available for ease. Alternatively, you can consider the bus system or bike rentals. Boat taxis are available for a special trip.
References
French Polynesia Tourism Board
World Food Travel Association
Ready to Taste Paradise?
Now that you’re armed with the insider’s guide to Bora Bora’s culinary scene, it’s time to turn your dreams into reality. Imagine yourself savoring fresh Poisson Cru overlooking the crystal-clear lagoon, or watching a vibrant Polynesian dance while indulging in a traditional earth oven feast. Don’t just dream about it – book your trip to Bora Bora today and prepare for a gastronomic adventure you’ll never forget! Start planning your itinerary, research accommodation options, and be ready to experience the unforgettable flavors of paradise. Your taste buds will thank you.
