Finding restaurants that cater to both sophisticated adult palates and the sometimes… selective tastes of children can be a travel challenge. Luckily, the Seychelles offers a surprisingly diverse range of dining experiences that welcome families with open arms. From beachfront barbecues where kids can build sandcastles while you wait for fresh grilled fish, to casual Creole eateries with simplified menus for younger diners, there’s something for everyone in this island paradise.
Seychelles Dining: A Broad Overview
Before diving into specific restaurants, it’s helpful to understand the general dining scene in the Seychelles. Expect a blend of Creole, French, Indian, and Asian influences, resulting in flavorful curries, fresh seafood, and plenty of rice dishes. Many restaurants offer both indoor and outdoor seating, and reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season and weekends. Prices can range from affordable local eats to fine-dining experiences, so it’s wise to do some research beforehand to align with your budget. Most establishments are relatively informal and accept children, but it’s always a good idea to check their policy in advance to prevent any unpleasant surprises.
Mahé: A Family Feast on the Main Island
Mahé, the largest island, offers the widest variety of dining options. Beau Vallon, a popular beach known for its calm waters and family-friendly vibe, is a fantastic hub for kid-friendly restaurants. Here are some top picks:
Boat House
This iconic place on Beau Vallon beach is famed for its Creole buffet. The Boat House offers a relaxed atmosphere, vibrant colors, and consistently good food with something to please everyone. The buffet setup allows kids to choose what they like, and there is usually some form of less spicy alternatives amongst the dishes. Expect to pay around SCR 500-700 per adult (approximately $35-$50), and slightly less for children, depending on their age. It can get very busy, so arriving early or making reservations is highly recommended. The location is also perfect for a post-dinner stroll along the beach.
La Plage Restaurant
A bit more upscale than the Boat House, but still welcoming to families, La Plage offers a lovely beachfront setting and a diverse menu featuring seafood, Creole cuisine, and international dishes. While it’s pricier (expect to pay SCR 800-1200 per adult, or $60-$90), the quality of the food and the stunning views make it worth the splurge. They often have a kids’ menu with familiar favorites like pasta and chicken nuggets. A great option if the kids are more adventurous eaters or you want a more refined dining experience without sacrificing family enjoyment.
Baobab Pizzeria
Sometimes, all you need is a good pizza, and Baobab Pizzeria delivers just that. Casual, affordable, and located right on Beau Vallon beach, this is an excellent choice for a quick and easy meal. Kids love pizza, and the adults can enjoy other options like salads and sandwiches. Prices are very reasonable, with pizzas ranging from SCR 200-400 (approximately $15-$30). The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for families, and the sound of the waves provides a relaxing backdrop.
Marie Antoinette
For a more authentic Creole experience, consider Marie Antoinette, a historic restaurant housed in a charming old colonial building. While it might not be the trendiest spot, it’s famous for its traditional Creole dishes and iconic status. They have a set menu that includes various local delicacies, and while some might be spicy, they’re usually happy to accommodate children with simpler options. The price reflects the history and experience, costing around SCR 600-800 per person (approximately $45-$60). This is a good option if you want your children to try Creole food in a unique setting.
Directions on Mahé:
Navigating Mahé is relatively straightforward. Taxis are readily available, and most hotels can arrange transportation. Rental cars are also a popular option, giving you the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. Google Maps works well in the Seychelles, so you can easily find restaurants and plan your routes.
Praslin: Relaxed Island Dining with Kids
Praslin, the second-largest island, is known for its pristine beaches, including Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette. The dining scene here is more relaxed and intimate than on Mahé, with several charming restaurants perfect for families.
Cafe des Arts
Located on Praslin Island’s Cote d’Or beach, this upscale beachside restaurant, Café des Arts is a must-visit. It offers a refined dining experience with breathtaking views. While it’s not exclusively a kids’ restaurant, the ambiance is relaxed and the staff is accommodating. Their menu features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and pasta dishes, with some options aimed to please more picky eaters. Expect a higher price point (SCR 900-1500 per adult, approximately $70-$110), but the quality of the food and the setting make it a memorable experience. Building sandcastles within eyesight of mom and dad!
Pirogue Restaurant & Bar
Situated at the Berjaya Praslin Beach Resort, Pirogue offers a beautiful garden setting and a varied menu including Creole, seafood, and international dishes. This restaurant is suitable for families thanks to its friendly atmosphere. They regularly have buffets with Creole and Western dishes, allowing lots of choices. Consider budget SCR 500-800 per adult (around $35-$60). The resort also has a kids’ club, to keep the little ones entertained before or after the meal. Check out their website for current event listing and themed buffets.
Coco Rouge
If you want to enjoy local cuisine, Coco Rouge presents a popular spot. This modest restaurant may lack sea panoramas, but is renowned for its Creole cuisine served in large portions at affordable pricing. This is a great chance to try authentic cuisine, away from the glitz of the big hotels. Don’t anticipate a kids’ menu, but the staff will gladly advise milder options. Portions are enormous, and the price is low, around SCR 300-500 (25-35 dollars per person). It fills up very often, so it is advisable come a little early or plan for a wait.
Directions on Praslin:
Praslin is smaller than Mahé, making it easier to get around. Rental cars are a convenient option, and taxis are also available. Buses are another affordable way to explore the island, although they can be crowded during peak hours. Many hotels offer shuttle services to popular attractions and restaurants.
La Digue: Small Island Charm and Casual Eats
La Digue, the smallest of the three main islands, is known for its stunning beaches, particularly Anse Source d’Argent. Here, the dining experience is more laid-back, with several charming cafes and restaurants catering to families.
Gala Takeaway
For an extremely budget-friendly and casual option, Gala Takeaway is a lifesaver (also known as “Gala Snack Bar”). This is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It offers a selection of inexpensive, simple meals like burgers, sandwiches, and fried rice. It is an easy remedy when the kids are too tired to sit in a restaurant. Prices are incredibly reasonable, with most items costing far less than SCR 100 (less than $10). You can sit outside or take them away.
Fish Trap Restaurant & Bar
Located near La Passe Jetty, the Fish Trap provides excellent fresh fish in a calm ambiance. While elegant, it welcomes families. The patio overlooks the sea, providing a good location for kids to move around. Their menu includes varied cuisine, with fresh lobsters as highlights. Expect prices to be mid-range at SCR 600-900 per adult (around $45-70). Make bookings, especially in high season for this famous place.
Belle Vue Restaurant
This restaurant offers local cuisine with stunning panoramic views of La Digue from up high – be ready for the way uphill. Many dishes are prepared using seafood from the local waters, and the restaurant creates an immersive adventure. A range of Creole flavors can please every person’s taste. It’s a little more dear at approximately SCR 700-1000 per adult (about $50-75), but well worth it for the panoramic scenery and the food quality. Check their business hours, as they may vary.
Directions on La Digue:
The primary mode of transportation on La Digue is by bicycle. You can rent bikes from numerous shops near the jetty. Walking is also a great way to explore the island, as distances are relatively short. Taxis are available, but they’re less common than on Mahé and Praslin.
Tips for Dining with Kids in the Seychelles
- Pack snacks: While restaurants are generally accommodating, having familiar snacks on hand can be a lifesaver during long days exploring or if your child is a picky eater.
- Consider meal times: Seychellois tend to eat later than some cultures. Adjust your meal times accordingly or opt for early dinners to avoid hungry meltdowns.
- Ask about kids’ menus: Many restaurants offer kids’ menus, but it’s always a good idea to ask if they have options that are suitable for your child’s tastes or dietary needs. If not, inquire if they can prepare a simpler dish.
- Be prepared for spiciness: Creole cuisine can be quite spicy, so be sure to ask about the spice level of dishes and request milder versions for your children.
- Embrace the local flavors: Encourage your children to try new things, but don’t force them. Start with familiar dishes and gradually introduce them to Creole flavors.
- Look for restaurants with outdoor seating: Many restaurants in the Seychelles have outdoor seating areas, which can be a great option for families with active children. It provides space for them to move around without disturbing other diners and enjoy the scenery.
- Check for high chairs and booster seats: While not all restaurants have them, it’s always worth checking if they offer high chairs or booster seats for younger children.
- Book ahead: Make reservations, especially during peak season.
Beyond the Restaurants: Food Experiences
Beyond the restaurants, there are other ways to experience the local cuisine with your family:
Self-Catering Accommodation
Consider renting a villa or apartment with a kitchen allows you to prepare some of your own meals, which can be a cost-effective option, especially if you have young children. You can find fresh produce and seafood at local markets and supermarkets. This also means you can cater to any special diet needs and picky eaters in your family.
Beach BBQs
Many hotels and resorts offer beach barbecue nights. These are a fun and casual way to enjoy fresh grilled seafood and Creole specialties while the kids play on the beach. Check with your accommodation for details.
Considerations
- Dietary Restrictions: Communicate any special diets or food allergies to restaurants upfront; they will accommodate.
- Budgeting: Costs vary; estimate food expenditures between inexpensive food stands, middle restaurants and high elegant dining to align with one’s budgets.
- Hygiene: Although the Seychelles is high in hygiene, it would be sensible to examine the restaurant’s evaluations and health evaluations when possible.
- Tipping: Even though not required, consider extra gratuities for exceptional service, generally approximately 10%.
FAQ Section
Are high chairs available at most restaurants?
Not all restaurants have high chairs, especially the smaller, more local establishments. It’s always best to call ahead to check.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in the Seychelles?
While the tap water is generally considered safe, it’s recommended to drink bottled water, especially for children. Bottled water is readily available in supermarkets and shops.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, most restaurants offer vegetarian options, and some have vegan choices. Creole cuisine features many vegetable-based dishes, and chefs are usually willing to accommodate special requests.
What are the typical opening hours for restaurants?
Lunch is usually served from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, and dinner from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. However, opening hours can vary, so it’s always best to check in advance, particularly for smaller establishments. Some places may also close on Sundays.
Do restaurants accept credit cards?
Most restaurants accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted.
References
- Seychelles Tourism Board, Official Website
- Lonely Planet Seychelles Guide
- TripAdvisor Seychelles Forums
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure in the Seychelles with your family? Don’t wait any longer! Start planning your trip today, explore the islands, discover delicious food, and create unforgettable memories together. Book those flights, browse kid-friendly accommodations, and make restaurant reservations. The Seychelles awaits!
