The Islands of Tahiti: A Culinary Hotspot for Travellers

A recent study by Flight Centre highlighted that young Kiwi travellers are increasingly prioritising food experiences in their travel plans, and The Islands of Tahiti is a premier destination for those seeking extraordinary culinary adventures. Known for its overwater bungalows, lush landscapes, and turquoise waters, The Islands of Tahiti also offer the ultimate culinary experiences for travellers looking to indulge in the best fresh, unique and flavoursome food during their holidays.

According to the research commissioned by Flight Centre, 45% of young New Zealanders now consider food a top priority when selecting travel destinations, making The Islands of Tahiti the perfect candidate for young travellers. The 118 islands offer an abundance of fresh, local produce and a rich blend of cultural influences especially French and Chinese, making every meal an opportunity to experience genuine hospitality and tradition. Polynesian cuisine is always based on top-quality local produce, and both savoury and sweet dishes are often flavoured with topical tastes, including vanilla or coconut milk.

 

Travellers can savour gourmet Polynesian cuisine at food markets and restaurants throughout the islands, or from roulottes (food trucks) and on food tours. From trying the local food gems to the best food experiences, we have curated the ultimate list for young Kiwis planning their next holidays based on culinary experiences.

 

Local Food Gems
The Tahitians are renowned for their poisson cru, a dish of raw tuna marinated in coconut milk with lime and fresh vegetables. Available at almost every hotel, restaurant, food truck, and snack bar, it captures Tahitian culinary goodness. Other delights include freshwater prawns with coconut milk perfumed with vanilla, traditional ahima’a cooked in earth ovens, and those feeling adventurous can try the fafaru, raw fish marinated in fermented seawater. No Polynesian dish is complete without a dessert, and travellers can indulge in sweet po’e dessert made from local fruits or start the day with firi firi, made from coconut-flavoured flour and shaped similar to a doughnut, perfect for dunking in a morning coffee.

POISSON CRU Credit: Stéphane Mailion Photography
Moorea Food Tour
For an ultimate foodie adventure, travellers can join Chef Heimata Hall on his Moorea Food Tour and sample food from hidden gems, food stalls along the road and other must-try spots. During the food tour, travellers will taste and visit authentic local finds that offer unique flavours that locals like to eat. The food in The Islands of Tahiti consists of three cultures, Tahitian, Chinese, and French and during the tour, guests will experience 10-12 tastings that highlight the rich flavours of French Polynesian cuisine.

Roulottes (food trucks)
Grabbing a meal at one of the roulottes in The Islands of Tahiti offers a moment of relaxed conviviality and fine food at reasonable prices, perfect for young travellers. With delicious dishes, rapid service, and affordable menus, food trucks are local favourites. From local gems like poisson cru to classics like steak with fries, pizza, crepes, and hamburgers, there’s something for everyone.

Explore Tahiti Tourisme:
Online https://tahititourisme.nz/en-nz/
On Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TahitiTourismeAUNZ