Moorea's culinary scene is as varied as its landscape, offering an array of dining experiences from laid-back burger joints, family-run ‘snacks’ to more sophisticated gastronomic delights.
The best chateaubriand — Cook's Bay Hotel
Cook's Bay Hotel is a recent entrant to the Moorea restaurant circuit. Serving food all day, we enjoy dropping in after work for sunset drinks and dinner. We have been treated to chateaubriand and Burgundy so lovely we dreamed about it still the next day. Ask yours 'bleu'.
Best lunch trailer - Lilikoi Garden Café
Lilikoi Garden Café is a charming, family-operated eatery nestled on the mountainside near Hilton. It's known for its delectable tuna poke bowl and a selection of freshly squeezed juices, perfect for a light and refreshing lunch. They welcome guests on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Best burgers - Nini's Burger
For a casual bite, Nini’s Burgers in Maharepa is a celebrated burger stand where you can grab a delicious takeaway. It's a hit with the locals, so expect a short wait, which is a small price for the taste of their famed burgers. They're open every evening for your burger cravings.
Best casual lunch - Snack Mahana
Snack Mahana, perched by the sea in Papetoai, is a family-run venue praised for their traditional Poisson Cru — raw tuna in coconut milk with crisp vegetables — and their perfectly (not so) seared tuna steak accompanied by fries or a fresh tomato salad. Available from Tuesday to Saturday for lunch, be sure to carry cash and arrive early to secure a spot in this popular joint.
Most unexpected nice lunch - Moorea Airport
Escale de Temae might surprise you; airport dining isn't typically recommended, but this spot offers a great lunch menu worth checking out.
Best tuna carpaccio - Taoahere Beach House
Taoahere Beach House sits by the beach in Tiahura, where their red tuna carpaccio comes highly recommended. Open for lunch from Wednesday to Sunday and for dinner on Fridays and Saturdays, it's a delightful spot for seaside dining.
Best wine list - Moorea Beach Cafe by Bruno Jamais
Don't miss Moorea Beach Café by Bruno Jamais in Maharepa, where the orange décor is as vibrant as the atmosphere. Known for one of the best wine selections on the island and innovative daily specials, they serve exquisite cocktails that you can sip with your feet in the sand. Their lobster specialities a must-try. Open every day, all day, it's a go-to for any meal.
Best Caesar Salad - Le Green Pearl
Le Green Pearl, nestled amidst the verdant Moorea golf course, offers a serene dining experience. Here, the Caesar salad comes highly recommended. They're ready to welcome you for lunch from Thursday to Monday and for dinner from Thursday to Sunday.
Best cocktails and tapas - Holy Steak House
Holy Steak House in Tiahura boasts a spacious terrace and a selection of fine cocktails for an aperitif. As suggested by the name, their meats are the highlight, complemented by an impressive wine list and live music on select evenings.
Best Poisson Cru au Lait de Coco - Le Lézard Jaune Café
Le Lézard Jaune Café in Hauru is well-known for its exceptional Poisson Cru Special Chef, a dish so generous it can serve as a starter for 5-6 people. It's so renowned that some claim it's the best in Moorea. Dinner reservations are essential here; they're open from Wednesday to Sunday.
Best Pizza - Casa Vincenzo
Casa Vincenzo brings a slice of Italy to Tiahura with its authentic pizza oven. The pizzas are a must-try, but their beef carpaccio is also a standout choice. Available for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday, remember to book in advance or order your takeaway pizza early.
Best dinner that turns into mayhem - Vaiare Pizza
Vaiare Pizza is a local favourite, especially on Friday evenings when they host an open mic — and if you're musically inclined, joining in is encouraged. The pizzas are the choice here, enjoyed amidst a convivial atmosphere. They're open for lunch from Wednesday to Sunday and for dinner from Tuesday to Sunday, but be sure to reserve your spot for Friday night.
Best fine dining - Restaurant K
Lastly, Restaurant K at Sofitel Moorea offers an exclusive gastronomic experience, the only one of its kind on the island. With a menu and wine list that change regularly, it's perfect for a special evening out. Available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings, reservations are required.
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