Bora Bora isn’t just about overwater bungalows and picture-perfect sunsets; it’s also a treasure trove of culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Forget the resort menus for a moment and dive into the vibrant world of local eats – experiences that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also connect you with the authentic culture of this Polynesian paradise.
Embrace the Roulettes: Bora Bora’s Food Truck Scene
Imagine this: the sun setting over the lagoon, the air filled with the aroma of grilled fish and sizzling garlic, and the sound of laughter echoing from a cluster of brightly colored food trucks. This is the essence of the roulettes, Bora Bora’s answer to street food. These mobile eateries are a vital part of the island’s culinary landscape, offering a diverse range of dishes at prices far more affordable than the resorts. They’re not just about saving money, though; they’re about experiencing the true flavors of Bora Bora alongside locals and fellow travelers alike.
Where to Find the Best Roulettes
The epicenter of the roulette scene is undoubtedly Vaitape, Bora Bora’s main town. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the area near the ferry dock transforms into a bustling food market. You’ll find several roulettes clustered together, each offering its own unique specialties. Ask around – locals are typically happy to point you toward their favorite spots. Another good location is near Matira Beach, especially during weekends. Be aware that opening hours may vary, with some vendors operating only on certain days or evenings. Generally, they become more active from around 6 PM onwards.
Don’t Miss These Dishes
So, what should you order? The options can be overwhelming, but here are a few must-try dishes:
- Poisson Cru: This is the quintessential Tahitian dish, consisting of raw tuna marinated in coconut milk, lime juice, onions, and vegetables. Each roulette has its own variation, so try a few to find your favorite. The freshness of the tuna is unparalleled, and the combination of flavors is simply divine. A generous serving will typically cost around 1500-2000 XPF (approximately $13-$18 USD), making it a very affordable and satisfying meal.
- Grilled Fish: Bora Bora is blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood, and grilling is one of the simplest and most delicious ways to prepare it. Look for the catch of the day, which could be anything from tuna and mahi-mahi to parrotfish and wahoo. The fish is usually seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and maybe a hint of garlic, allowing the natural flavors to shine through. Expect to pay around 2000-2500 XPF (approximately $18-$22 USD) depending on the type of fish and the size of the portion.
- Chinese Food: You might be surprised to find Chinese-inspired dishes at the roulettes, but they’re incredibly popular with locals. Many families in Bora Bora have Chinese heritage, and this is reflected in the local cuisine. Dishes like chow mein, fried rice, and sweet and sour pork are common offerings, often prepared with a Polynesian twist. You can typically get a large plate of Chinese food for around 1200-1800 XPF (approximately $11-$16 USD). Don’t expect authentic Chinese, but rather a local interpretation that’s often heavy on the soy sauce and vegetables.
- Burgers and Sandwiches: For a more familiar option, many roulettes also offer burgers and sandwiches. These are usually made with local ingredients and often feature Polynesian-inspired sauces and toppings. They’re a good choice if you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, and they’re usually priced around 1000-1500 XPF (approximately $9-$13 USD).
- Pineapple Juice: Consider getting fresh squeezed pineapple juice. Delicious and refresing, it serves a perfect complement to most meals offered in the roulettes. It is fairly affordable, with price between approximately 400-600 XPF (approximately $3-$5 USD).
Tips for Roulette Success
To make the most of your roulette experience, here are a few tips:
- Bring cash: Many roulettes don’t accept credit cards, so make sure you have enough local currency (XPF).
- Arrive early: The best roulettes can get busy quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early will give you a better chance of finding a table and avoiding long lines.
- Don’t be afraid to try new things: Step outside your comfort zone and sample some of the more unusual dishes on offer. You might just discover your new favorite food.
- Chat with the locals: The people who run the roulettes are often very friendly and welcoming. Take the time to chat with them and learn about their food and culture.
- Check opening hours: As mentioned before, opening hours can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check before heading out. Some roulettes update their social media pages (if they have them), but asking around is usually the most reliable way to find out.
Delving Deeper: Local Restaurants Beyond the Resorts
While the roulettes offer a fantastic introduction to Bora Bora’s local food scene, there are also several excellent restaurants located outside the resorts that are worth exploring. These establishments offer a more formal dining experience than the roulettes, but they still retain a sense of authenticity and charm.
Recommended Local Restaurants
Here are a few recommendations, catering to different tastes and budgets:
- Bloody Mary’s: An iconic Bora Bora institution. While it has become a popular tourist destination, Bloody Mary’s still retains a unique charm and offers a delicious selection of grilled seafood and meat. The experience begins with choosing your fresh catch from a display of ice, and then having it cooked to your liking. Prices are higher than at the roulettes (expect to pay around 5000-8000 XPF per person for a main course), but the atmosphere and the quality of the food make it worth the splurge for at least one memorable evening. Do remember to book in advance! You can find their official website here.
- St. James Bora Bora: Perched on stilts over the water, St. James offers breathtaking views and a refined dining experience. The menu features a mix of French and Polynesian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. The ambiance is romantic and sophisticated, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion. Prices are comparable to Bloody Mary’s, but the focus is more on presentation and culinary artistry. Reservations are highly recommended.
- Maikai Bora Bora: This restaurant with a lively atmosphere offers stunning views of Mount Otemanu. Maikai is known for its delicious cocktails and Polynesian-inspired dishes, making it a popular hangout spot for both locals and tourists. While a bit pricier than roulettes, it’s not as expensive as resort restaurants.
- Snack Matira: For a more casual and budget-friendly option, head to Snack Matira. Close to Matira Beach, they offer simple but tasty dishes like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and poisson cru. It’s a great place to grab a quick lunch or a light dinner after a day of swimming and sunbathing. Prices are comparable to the roulettes. Expect to pay around 2000-3000 XPF for lunch/dinner.
- Fare Manuia: Located in Anau, Fare Manuia offers panoramic views of the lagoon and a menu that blends French and Polynesian flavors. They are well-known for their seafood preparations and are a great option for lunch or dinner.
Getting Around and Making Reservations
Reaching these restaurants typically involves renting a car, scooter, or utilizing the local bus service. Taxis are also available, but they can be quite expensive. Many restaurants offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off services, especially for dinner reservations, so be sure to inquire when booking. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly during peak season, as these restaurants can fill up quickly. Booking can often be done online or by phone.
Supermarkets and Local Markets: A Taste of Bora Bora at Home
For those who enjoy a bit of self-catering, or simply want to experience the local ingredients, visiting the supermarkets and local markets is a must. This is where you’ll find the freshest produce, seafood, and other local delicacies, all at prices considerably lower than what you’d pay at the resorts. It’s also a great opportunity to interact with local vendors and learn about the ingredients they use in their cooking.
Where to Shop
The main supermarkets in Bora Bora are located in Vaitape. These supermarkets stock a wide range of products, from imported goods to local produce. They also offer a good selection of beverages, snacks, and other essentials. The prices are generally reasonable, although imported items can be more expensive. The Vaitape markets near the dock also offer a local experience. Check out their opening times before you go.
What to Look For
When shopping at the local markets, be sure to look for these ingredients:
- Fresh Fruits: Bora Bora is blessed with an abundance of tropical fruits, including mangoes, papayas, pineapples, bananas, and passion fruit. These fruits are at their peak of flavor when they’re in season, and they’re perfect for making smoothies, salads, or simply enjoying on their own.
- Fresh Vegetables: The local markets also offer a variety of fresh vegetables, including tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, onions, and peppers. These vegetables are often grown locally and are much fresher and more flavorful than what you’ll find at the supermarkets.
- Fresh Seafood: Of course, no trip to Bora Bora is complete without trying some of the local seafood. You’ll find a variety of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans on offer, all caught fresh from the surrounding waters.
- Vanilla Beans: Tahiti and its islands (including Bora Bora) are known for producing some of the world’s finest vanilla beans. These beans have a rich, floral aroma and a complex flavor that’s perfect for baking, desserts, and even savory dishes.
- Monoï Oil: While not an edible item, monoï oil is a quintessential Polynesian product made by infusing coconut oil with Tiare flowers. It has a beautiful fragrance and can be used as a moisturizer, massage oil, or hair treatment. It is sometimes used in food preparation as well.
Tips for Shopping
- Bring cash: The local markets generally don’t accept credit cards, so be sure to bring enough cash.
- Negotiate: It’s customary to negotiate prices at the local markets, especially if you’re buying multiple items. Don’t be afraid to haggle a bit – it’s all part of the fun.
- Go early: The markets are usually busiest in the morning, so it’s best to go early to avoid the crowds and get the best selection of goods.
- Ask questions: The vendors are usually happy to answer your questions about their products and offer advice on how to prepare them.
Beyond the Plate: Embrace the Polynesian Culture
Food is more than just sustenance in Bora Bora; it’s an integral part of the Polynesian culture. Taking the time to learn about the local customs and traditions surrounding food will enhance your culinary experiences and give you a deeper appreciation for the island’s rich heritage.
Attend a Tama’ara’a (Traditional Feast)
If possible, try to attend a tama’ara’a, a traditional Polynesian feast. These feasts are often held on special occasions, such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays, and they’re a great way to experience the authentic flavors and traditions of Bora Bora. The food is usually cooked in an ahima’a, an underground oven, and the menu typically includes roasted pig, fish, chicken, taro, breadfruit, and a variety of other local delicacies. Participating in a Tama’ara’a is not always easy to arrange as a tourist but inquire at your hotel or local tour operators about the availability of such events during your visit. It is usually a very communal affair. The food is not just delicious but also a celebration of the island’s resources. Be sure to savor everything and soak up the atmosphere!
Learn a Few Tahitian Phrases
Learning a few basic Tahitian phrases will go a long way in showing respect for the local culture and making your interactions with the locals more enjoyable. Here are a few useful phrases:
- Ia Ora Na: Hello
- Mauruuru: Thank you
- Maita’i: Good
- Pape: Water
- ‘Ia ‘oa’oa: Cheers! (To your health!)
Respect Local Customs and Traditions
As with any travel destination, it’s important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Dress modestly: When visiting local villages or religious sites, it’s important to dress modestly. Avoid wearing revealing clothing and be sure to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Ask for permission: Before taking photos of people, always ask for their permission. Some people may not be comfortable being photographed, and it’s important to respect their wishes.
- Be mindful of noise levels: Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas. Avoid making loud noises or playing loud music, particularly late at night.
- Dispose of trash properly: Help keep Bora Bora clean by disposing of your trash properly. Use designated trash cans and avoid littering.
Practical Considerations for Food Lovers
Planning your culinary adventures in Bora Bora requires considering some practical aspects. Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate the dining scene:
Budgeting for Food
Food costs in Bora Bora can vary widely depending on your dining choices. Resort restaurants tend to be the most expensive, followed by upscale restaurants outside the resorts. Roulettes and local markets offer the most affordable options. If you’re on a tight budget, consider self-catering and eating at the roulettes. If you’re willing to splurge, there are plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from. As a general guideline, budget around 5000-10,000 XPF per person per day if you plan to eat mainly at restaurants and resorts. If you’re more budget-conscious, you can easily get by on 2000-4000 XPF per person per day by eating at the roulettes and shopping at the local markets.
Dietary Restrictions and Allergies
If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, it’s important to inform the restaurants in advance. Most restaurants are happy to accommodate special requests, but it’s always best to be prepared. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but even if there’s a language barrier, clearly stating your needs (e.g., “no gluten,” “vegetarian only”) can prevent issues. It’s also prudent to carry a card in French explaining your specific dietary needs, just in case.
Water Safety
Tap water in Bora Bora is generally considered safe to drink, but it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution and drink bottled water, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Bottled water is readily available at supermarkets and convenience stores throughout the island.
FAQ Section
Here’s a compilation of frequently asked questions regarding dining in Bora Bora:
Are there vegetarian or vegan options readily available?
Yes, while Polynesian cuisine traditionally revolves around seafood and meat, most restaurants are now aware of vegetarian and vegan requirements and will often include options on the menu or preparations using local fruits and vegetables tailored to your needs. It’s always best to call ahead, however, to confirm and discuss possibilities.
Is tipping customary in Bora Bora?
Tipping is not customary in French Polynesia, including Bora Bora. Service charges are often included in the bill at restaurants. While you are not expected to tip, feel free to do so if you feel the service was extraordinary.
What is the legal drinking age in Bora Bora?
The legal drinking age in French Polynesia is 18. You may be asked to provide identification to purchase alcohol.
Are there any cooking classes available where I can learn to prepare Polynesian dishes?
Some resorts and tour operators offer cooking classes focusing on Polynesian cuisine. Inquire at your hotel or search online for available options. These classes often include a market visit to select fresh ingredients followed by a hands-on cooking lesson.
What is the local beer in Bora Bora?
Hinano is the most popular local beer in French Polynesia. It is a light, refreshing lager, perfect for a hot day in the tropics.
References
- Bora Bora Tourism Official Website
- Various restaurant websites (Bloody Mary’s, St. James Bora Bora)
- Travel Forums & Blogs (TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet)
Ready to ditch the resort restaurants and embark on a flavorful adventure through Bora Bora? Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you! So, grab your appetite, a sense of adventure, and dive into the delicious world of local eats – a far more authentic and unforgettable way to experience the true heart of this paradise.
