5 Distinctive French Polynesia Foods and Where To Find Them

French Polynesia, a paradise of lush landscapes and crystal-clear waters, offers more than just breathtaking views. Its cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional Polynesian flavors and French influences, creating a unique culinary experience that should not be missed. Here, we present five must-try dishes that epitomize French Polynesia’s vibrant food culture, along with recommendations on where to savor these exquisite delights.

Poisson Cru: The Heart of Polynesian Cuisine

Poisson cru, often referred to as the national dish of French Polynesia, is a refreshing take on ceviche. This dish features raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, often accompanied by fresh vegetables.

Where to Try It: 

• Motu Picnics – Many local tours offer motu (small island) picnics where poisson cru is a staple.

• Local Restaurants – Many restaurants serve a version of this dish. These are well-known in Tahiti and Bora Bora:
  • Le Coco’s (Tahiti)
  • Le Tiare Restaurant (Tahiti)
  • Snack Mahana (Tahiti)
  • Teva Restaurant (Bora Bora)
  • Restaurant La Villa Mahana (Bora Bora)

Tahitian Vanilla: A Fragrant Delight

Tahitian vanilla is revered worldwide for its rich, floral aroma. More than 80% of the vanilla grown in French Polynesia is from the island of Taha’a. The delicate process of hand-pollination and sun-curing makes this vanilla truly special. You’ll often find it infused in sauces for fish dishes or in decadent desserts.

Where to Experience It: 

• Vanilla Plantations in Taha’a or Raiatea – Visit to learn about the cultivation process and sample vanilla-infused dishes. You’ll soon understand why Tahitian vanilla is so precious – It takes nearly two years for a vanilla vine to grow and produce flowers, which then produce a sole vanilla pod.

• Restaurants Across Tahiti – Look for mahi mahi with vanilla sauce or vanilla-infused po’e (a traditional fruit pudding) or ice cream.

Mai Tai: Tropical Elegance in a Glass

Photo by The Castlebar

While not a dish, and not original to French Polynesia, the mai tai cocktail is an iconic beverage you must try while in French Polynesia. Made with a mix of rums, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange liqueur, it’s the perfect tropical refreshment.

Where to Sip It: 

• Bloody Mary’s in Bora Bora – This renowned restaurant is famous for its sand floors and celebrity clientele. Pair your mai tai with their mahi mahi burger for an unforgettable meal.

• Onboard the Paul Gauguin or other luxury cruise ship

Breadfruit (Uru): Versatile and Quintessentially Polynesian

Breadfruit, or uru, is a versatile starch that is a staple in the Polynesian diet. It can be fried, mashed, boiled, roasted, or broiled. One popular preparation involves roasting it over hot coals and mashing it with coconut milk to create a dish called kaka.

Where to Find It: 

• Nuku Hiva – Known for traditional preparations of breadfruit.

• Local Markets – Daily markets in Papeete, Tahiti, and Utoraoa, Raiatea often have breadfruit in various forms.

Exotic Seafood: Fresh from the Lagoon and Deep Sea

French Polynesia’s waters are teeming with unique seafood options. From mama (raw clam-like mollusks) to toetoe river crabs and exotic fish like sea urchin, parrotfish, and barracuda, the variety is immense. 

Where to Taste It: 

• Nuku Hiva – Offers adventurous seafood dishes.

• Tahiti – Lagoon and deep-sea fish are commonly featured on menus at top-rated seafood restaurants in Tahiti and Moorea, such as Le Coco’s, La Vague, and Snack Mahana.

From the fresh and vibrant poisson cru to the luxurious allure of Tahitian vanilla, French Polynesia’s cuisine offers a feast for the senses. Whether you’re dining at a high-end restaurant or enjoying a casual market meal, these unique dishes provide a delicious way to explore the islands’ culture and heritage.

Ready to experience French Polynesia’s culinary wonders for yourself? Let’s get started planning your luxury vacation. Reserve your complimentary consultation call with me to begin!

Featured image by Stéphane Mailion Photography