Praslin Island, the second largest island in Seychelles, offers a culinary adventure as vibrant and diverse as its stunning landscapes. Forget your preconceptions about bland island food; here, Creole cuisine explodes with flavour, influenced by African, French, Indian and Chinese traditions. This isn’t just about eating; it’s about immersing yourself in the culture, meeting the locals, and discovering the heart of Seychelles through its food.
Arriving on Praslin: A Taste of What’s to Come
The moment you step off the ferry or plane onto Praslin, the air itself seems to carry the scent of spices and the sea. The main jetty at Baie Ste Anne is a bustling hub, and even here, you’ll find small stalls selling fresh fruit and local snacks. Don’t be afraid to dive straight in! Pick up a few samosas (around SCR 5-10 each) for a quick and tasty bite. These are often freshly made and offer a perfect introduction to the island’s flavour profile – a hint of chili, a touch of curry, and crispy, golden pastry.
Navigating Praslin’s Food Scene: Getting Around
Praslin is relatively small, but having a rental car is highly recommended for exploring its culinary offerings fully. Car rentals typically cost around SCR 500-800 per day, but the freedom it provides is invaluable. Alternatively, the local bus service is reliable and affordable (SCR 7 per ride), although it can be less frequent in some areas. Ask your accommodation for the latest bus schedule. Taxis are also available, but agree on a price beforehand, as they can be relatively expensive.
The Heart of Creole Cuisine: Curries, Fish, and More
Creole curries are the cornerstone of Seychellois cuisine, and Praslin boasts countless variations. Fish curry, often made with coconut milk, ginger, garlic, and a blend of local spices, is a must-try. The preparation varies greatly between restaurants and even families, so experiment and find your favourite! Octopus curry is another local delicacy, offering a unique texture and flavour. Chicken and vegetable curries are also widely available and equally delicious. A typical curry dish, served with rice, can cost around SCR 150-300 in a local restaurant.
Must-Try Dish: Grilled Fish
Being an island nation, Seychelles naturally has a fantastic variety of seafood. Grilled fish, often served with Creole sauce, is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish. Look for places where the fish is freshly caught each day. Many small restaurants along the coast will display their catch of the day – choose your fish and have it grilled to perfection. Red snapper and parrotfish are popular choices, but don’t hesitate to ask about other available varieties. The cost will depend on the type of fish and the size, but expect to pay around SCR 200-400.
Beyond the Beaches: Exploring Praslin’s Restaurants
Restaurant Paradisier: Located in Baie Ste Anne, this restaurant offers stunning views of the harbour and a wide range of Creole and international dishes. The seafood platter is a popular choice, showcasing the freshest catches of the day. It’s a bit more on the pricier side, with mains ranging from SCR 300-500, but the atmosphere and quality of food justify the cost.
Café des Arts: Situated on Anse Lazio, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches (Travel + Leisure often features it), Café des Arts is a true gem. While its location is a major draw, the food is equally impressive. They specialize in seafood dishes prepared with a modern twist. Expect to pay a premium for the location and ambiance – main courses start around SCR 400.
Britannia Restaurant: This popular spot in Grand Anse offers a more relaxed and budget-friendly dining experience. They serve traditional Creole cuisine at reasonable prices (mains around SCR 150-250). It’s a great place to try local specialties like bat curry (for the adventurous!) or fish rougaille.
Village du Pecheur: Located on Cote D’Or, This charming restaurant offers a romantic setting, perfect for a special occasion. They boast a menu full of seafood delicacies, with many other great options. Prices range slightly higher, but the quality of the food and service makes it worth the cost.
The Magic of Street Food: From Snacks to Hearty Meals
Don’t underestimate Praslin’s street food scene! It offers authentic and affordable culinary experiences. Look out for small takeaway shops and stalls selling a variety of treats, such as:
- Samosas: As mentioned earlier, these fried, triangular pastries filled with vegetables or meat are a staple snack.
- Gateau Patate: Sweet potato cakes, often flavored with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. A delicious and unique dessert (typically around SCR 10-20).
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: A simple yet satisfying snack, often found near the beaches.
- Takeaway Curries: Many small shops offer takeaway portions of curry and rice at incredibly affordable prices (around SCR 100-150). This is a great option for a quick and tasty lunch.
A great time to experience this is during the daytime, particularly around markets. The Baie Ste Anne market in particular offers great food options.
Fruits of the Island: A Tropical Delight
Seychelles is blessed with an abundance of tropical fruits. Make sure you sample as many as possible during your stay. The markets and roadside stalls are the best places to find fresh, locally grown fruits. Some highlights include:
- Mangoes: In season (typically December to April), the mangoes in Seychelles are incredibly sweet and juicy.
- Papayas: Perfect for breakfast or a refreshing snack.
- Bananas: Several varieties of bananas are grown on Praslin, each with its own unique flavor and texture.
- Passion Fruit: Tangy and aromatic, passion fruit is delicious on its own or used in juices and desserts.
- Golden Apple (Pomme d’Or): A unique fruit with a slightly sweet and sour taste, often eaten with a pinch of salt.
- Breadfruit: Though technically not a fruit like the others, breadfruit is commonly seen and prepared as a kind of savory side with many main dishes.
The Seychellois Breakfast: A Different Kind of Start
While many hotels offer typical continental or American breakfasts, try to experience a traditional Seychellois breakfast at least once. This often includes:
- Fish Cake: A savory cake made with shredded fish, spices, and flour.
- Coconut Cake: A sweet and moist cake made with grated coconut.
- Breadfruit Chips: Crispy and savory chips made from thinly sliced breadfruit.
- Fresh Fruit: A generous serving of seasonal fruits.
Some guesthouses and smaller hotels offer this as part of their breakfast menu. Ask your accommodation about options for trying a traditional Seychellois breakfast.
Embracing Local Culture: Dining with a View
More than just the food itself, dining on Praslin is about the overall experience. Seek out restaurants with stunning views. Many are situated on hillsides overlooking the ocean, offering unforgettable sunsets. Consider even packing a picnic to enjoy on one of Praslin’s many beautiful beaches. Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette are particularly stunning spots for a beachside meal. Remember to be mindful of the environment and take all your trash with you.
Spices and Flavors: The Essence of Seychellois Cooking
Seychellois cuisine is characterized by its bold and aromatic spices. Some key ingredients include:
- Ginger: Used extensively in curries, sauces, and marinades.
- Garlic: Another essential ingredient in most savory dishes.
- Chili: Adds a touch of heat to many Creole dishes.
- Cinnamon: Used in both sweet and savory dishes.
- Nutmeg: Another spice often used in desserts and cakes.
- Turmeric: Gives Creole curries their vibrant yellow color.
The spice gardens on Praslin offer visitors a chance to learn about the different spices used in Seychellois cooking. The Jardin du Roi Spice Garden is one such place. Located in Anse Royale, it is not only a beautiful setting for a walk, but visitors can also learn about the agricultural history of the islands.
Sweet Endings: Seychellois Desserts
No culinary journey is complete without sampling the local desserts. Some popular Seychellois desserts include:
- Ladob: A sweet dessert made with ripe plantains, sweet potatoes, coconut milk, nutmeg, and sugar. It’s cooked until the plantains and sweet potatoes are soft and creamy.
- Nougat: A sweet treat made with sugar, honey, and nuts.
- Banana Cake: A moist and flavorful cake made with ripe bananas.
Look for these desserts in local bakeries or restaurants. Many guesthouses also serve them as part of their dinner menu.
Drinks of the Island: From Tea to Takamaka
Beyond the food, Seychelles offers a variety of local drinks. Some to try include:
- Seychelles Tea: Grown locally on Mahé, Seychelles tea is a refreshing and aromatic drink.
- Seybrew Beer: The local beer of Seychelles, Seybrew is a light and refreshing lager.
- Takamaka Rum: Distilled on Mahé, Takamaka Rum is a popular spirit made from locally grown sugarcane. Several varieties are available, from white rum to dark rum and flavored rums. A tasting at the Takamaka Rum Distillery on Mahé is a fun experience.
- Fresh Fruit Juices: A wide variety of fresh fruit juices are available, made with local fruits like mango, papaya, and passion fruit.
- Coconut Water: Directly from the coconut, this is a refreshing must have to beat the heat. You’ll find sellers on the main beach locations.
Budgeting for Food: Practical Tips
Dining on Praslin can be relatively expensive, especially in tourist areas. However, with a bit of planning, you can enjoy delicious food without breaking the bank. Here are some tips:
- Eat at Local Restaurants: Avoid the fancy tourist restaurants and opt for small, family-run establishments. These often offer authentic Creole cuisine at more affordable prices.
- Buy from Takeaway Shops: Takeaway shops offer great value for money, especially for lunch.
- Shop at Local Markets: Buy fresh produce at the markets and prepare your own meals.
- Look for Happy Hour Deals: Many bars and restaurants offer happy hour deals on drinks, which can help you save money.
- Consider Self-Catering Accommodation: If you plan to cook your own meals, consider staying in self-catering accommodation with a kitchen.
Learning a Few Creole Phrases: Enhancing the Experience
Learning a few basic Creole phrases can enhance your dining experience and show respect for the local culture. Here are some useful phrases:
- Bonzour: Hello
- Mersi: Thank you
- Silvouple: Please
- Bon appetit: Enjoy your meal
- Koman i koute?: How much does it cost?
- Eski ou annan…?: Do you have…?
Respecting Local Customs: A Few Considerations
When dining on Praslin, it’s important to be mindful of local customs and etiquette. Here are a few considerations:
- Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or local villages. While casual attire is generally acceptable in restaurants, it’s advisable to dress up slightly for more upscale establishments.
- Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Seychelles, but it is always appreciated for good service.
- Table Manners: Basic table manners are expected, such as not talking with your mouth full and using cutlery appropriately.
- Eating with Your Hands: In some traditional Creole households, it’s acceptable to eat certain foods with your hands. However, always ask if it’s appropriate before doing so.
Local Dining Etiquette
As with most places, politeness is key. Arriving on time for a reservation is important, as is being respectful of those serving you. If you have a large group, it is recommended you arrive early, so your servers are prepared. Although not expected, tips are appreciated to show recognition for great service.
A Culinary Adventure: Tips for Making the Most of It
To truly immerse yourself in Praslin’s culinary scene, here are a few actionable tips for your upcoming vacation:
- Talk to the Locals: Ask locals for their recommendations on the best restaurants and street food stalls. They often know hidden gems that aren’t listed in guidebooks.
- Be Adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try new and unfamiliar dishes. This is your chance to expand your culinary horizons.
- Visit Local Markets: The markets are a great place to sample local produce, spices, and snacks.
- Take a Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare traditional Creole dishes and take a piece of Seychelles home with you.
- Try all the Fish! Each restaurant does a great job preparing the local catches—ask them what they recommend and why.
FAQ Section
What Currency is used in Praslin?
The currency used in Praslin Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). While some establishments may accept Euros or US Dollars, it’s generally more convenient and cost-effective to use SCR. You can exchange currency at the airport, banks, or currency exchange offices. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and street food stalls.
Is it safe to eat street food in Praslin?
Yes, street food in Praslin is generally safe to eat, provided you choose vendors who maintain good hygiene practices. Look for stalls that are clean, well-maintained, and have a steady stream of customers. Avoid eating food that has been sitting out for a long time or that doesn’t appear to be properly cooked. You can refer to traveler ratings on sources like TripAdvisor for some suggestions.
Do Restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions in Praslin?
Many restaurants in Praslin are willing to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. However, it’s always best to inform the restaurant in advance when making a reservation. In smaller establishments, vegetarian offerings may be limited, so it’s a good idea to inquire about options beforehand. Larger resorts are more likely to give better options.
What is the typical cost of a meal in Praslin?
The cost of a meal in Praslin can vary widely depending on the type of restaurant and the dishes you order. A meal at a budget-friendly local restaurant or takeaway shop can cost around SCR 150-300, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around SCR 300-500. Upscale restaurants can charge SCR 500 or more per person. Street food and snacks are generally very affordable, with prices ranging from SCR 10-50.
Is it necessary to make reservations at restaurants in Praslin?
Making reservations at restaurants in Praslin is generally recommended, especially during peak tourist season (December to January and July to August). This is particularly important for popular restaurants or those with limited seating. You can usually make reservations by phone or online. For more casual dining experiences, reservations may not be necessary, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead, especially if you have a large group.
Awaiting Your Culinary Discovery
Praslin Island offers an unforgettable culinary journey, a symphony of flavours, and a deep dive into Seychellois culture and heritage. From the bustling market of Baie Ste Anne to the quiet restaurants hidden along the coast, every bite tells a story. So go ahead, book your trip, rent your car, and prepare to embark on the vacation of a lifetime!
References
Travel + Leisure, Best Beaches in the World
TripAdvisor
