Tasting Bora Bora: The Ultimate Guide to Local Cuisine

Bora Bora, the jewel of French Polynesia, is known for its stunning turquoise waters, luxurious overwater bungalows, and vibrant marine life. But beyond its breathtaking beauty, Bora Bora offers a culinary landscape just as rich and diverse as its natural surroundings. Influenced by Polynesian, French, and Asian traditions, the island’s cuisine is a blend of exotic flavors and fresh ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a curious foodie, the local dishes of Bora Bora promise a memorable gastronomic experience. Let’s dive into some must-try dishes and discover where to find them on this paradise island.

Poisson Cru: The Iconic Island Dish

No visit to Bora Bora is complete without trying Poisson Cru, often referred to as the national dish of French Polynesia. This refreshing and flavorful dish consists of raw fish, typically tuna, marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, then mixed with diced vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. The citrusy tang of the lime "cooks" the fish, while the creamy coconut milk balances the flavors, creating a dish that is light, fresh, and utterly delicious.

Poisson Cru is a testament to the island's connection with the sea and its abundance of fresh, local ingredients. It's the perfect dish to enjoy on a warm, sunny day by the lagoon.

Where to Eat Poisson Cru in Bora Bora:

• Bloody Mary's
  • Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora
  • Description: A legendary spot in Bora Bora, Bloody Mary's serves up a fantastic version of Poisson Cru in a laid-back, beachside setting. The restaurant’s rustic charm and fresh seafood make it a must-visit.
• Mai Kai Bora Bora
  • Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora
  • Description: Known for its stunning lagoon views and elegant Polynesian cuisine, Mai Kai offers a beautifully presented Poisson Cru, highlighting the freshness of the local fish.
• The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
  • Location: Motu Ome'e, Bora Bora
  • Description: For a luxurious dining experience, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort serves an exquisite Poisson Cru as part of its gourmet Polynesian menu. The dish is a true taste of island elegance.

Mahi Mahi: The Catch of the Day

Mahi Mahi, also known as dorado or dolphinfish, is a popular fish in Bora Bora, celebrated for its firm texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. Grilled, baked, or served in a creamy coconut sauce, Mahi Mahi is a versatile fish that features prominently on local menus. The fish is often accompanied by tropical fruits, vegetables, and fragrant rice, creating a meal that embodies the essence of island life.

Whether enjoyed as a simple grilled fillet or as part of a more elaborate dish, Mahi Mahi captures the freshness and bounty of Bora Bora's surrounding waters.

Where to Eat Mahi Mahi in Bora Bora:

• Restaurant Matira Beach
  • Location: Matira, Bora Bora
  • Description: Located on the famous Matira Beach, this restaurant offers a stunning view along with its delicious Mahi Mahi dishes, prepared with local ingredients and a touch of French flair.
• La Villa Mahana
  • Location: Povai Bay, Bora Bora
  • Description: For an intimate dining experience, La Villa Mahana presents Mahi Mahi in a fine dining setting, where the flavors of French Polynesia meet the sophistication of French cuisine.
• Le Tipanie Restaurant
  • Location: Le Meridien Bora Bora
  • Description: Set in a luxurious resort, Le Tipanie offers a creative take on Mahi Mahi, incorporating international flavors while staying true to the island’s culinary roots.

Fafa: The Comfort of the Islands

Fafa, also known as Poulet Fafa, is a traditional Polynesian dish made with chicken, spinach-like taro leaves, and coconut milk. The dish is typically slow-cooked, allowing the flavors to meld together into a rich, comforting stew. The tender chicken and the slightly bitter taro leaves are perfectly balanced by the creamy sweetness of the coconut milk, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

Fafa is a dish that reflects the simplicity and heartiness of Polynesian home cooking, offering a taste of the islands' agricultural heritage and the deep connection to the land.

Where to Eat Fafa in Bora Bora:

• Tama'a Maitai
  • Location: Matira Beach, Bora Bora
  • Description: Tama'a Maitai offers a delicious and authentic Fafa in a relaxed beachfront setting. The restaurant’s focus on traditional Polynesian cuisine makes it a great place to try this comforting dish.
• Te Ava
  • Location: The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
  • Description: Enjoy Fafa in a luxurious setting at Te Ava, where the dish is prepared with a modern twist while preserving its authentic flavors. The stunning ocean views add to the dining experience.
• Snack Matira
  • Location: Matira, Bora Bora
  • Description: For a more casual dining experience, Snack Matira offers a tasty and affordable version of Fafa, allowing you to enjoy this traditional dish in a laid-back atmosphere.

Fei: A Sweet Tropical Treat

Fei, or mountain banana, is a popular fruit in Bora Bora, known for its unique orange flesh and sweet, starchy taste. Unlike regular bananas, Fei is often cooked before being eaten, either boiled, grilled, or baked, and is commonly served as a side dish or dessert. The fruit’s natural sweetness makes it a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes, often paired with coconut milk, vanilla, or caramel for a delicious island treat.

Fei is a perfect example of how Bora Bora’s cuisine is deeply connected to the island's natural bounty, offering a taste of the tropics with every bite.

Where to Eat Fei in Bora Bora:

• Chez Nono
  • Location: Matira Beach, Bora Bora
  • Description: A cozy, local spot, Chez Nono serves up traditional Bora Bora dishes, including sweet and savory Fei preparations. It’s a great place to experience the island’s culinary traditions in a friendly atmosphere.
• La Bounty
  • Location: Matira, Bora Bora
  • Description: La Bounty offers a delightful take on Fei, incorporating the fruit into their desserts and side dishes. The casual, charming setting makes it a favorite among visitors.
• Far Niente Ristorante
  • Location: The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
  • Description: For a refined dining experience, Far Niente offers Fei as part of its gourmet Polynesian menu, where the fruit is showcased in both traditional and innovative ways.

Po’e: A Traditional Polynesian Dessert

Po’e is a traditional Polynesian dessert made from mashed tropical fruits like banana, papaya, or mango, mixed with starch (usually arrowroot or cornstarch) and baked until it forms a pudding-like consistency. Once baked, Po’e is typically served with a generous drizzle of coconut milk, adding a rich and creamy finish to this naturally sweet treat.

Po’e is often enjoyed during celebrations and feasts, offering a taste of the islands’ rich culinary traditions. The dessert is a perfect balance of sweetness and tropical flavors, making it a delightful end to any meal.

Where to Eat Po’e in Bora Bora:

• Snack Matira
  • Location: Matira, Bora Bora
  • Description: This casual eatery offers an authentic Po’e made from fresh, local fruits. The unpretentious setting and traditional recipes make it a great spot to enjoy this beloved dessert.
• Bloody Mary's
  • Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora
  • Description: Alongside its famous Poisson Cru, Bloody Mary's also serves a delicious Po’e, making it the perfect place to indulge in traditional Bora Bora flavors.
• Le Corail
  • Location: The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
  • Description: For a more upscale experience, Le Corail offers a refined version of Po’e as part of its gourmet dessert menu, blending traditional Polynesian flavors with modern culinary techniques.

Poisson Grillé: Simple, Fresh, and Delicious

Poisson Grillé, or grilled fish, is a staple in Bora Bora, where the abundance of fresh seafood is one of the island's greatest culinary treasures. Local fish like parrotfish, mahi mahi, or tuna are simply seasoned and grilled to perfection, often over an open flame, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to shine through. The dish is usually served with a side of rice, vegetables, or tropical fruits, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.

Poisson Grillé is a perfect example of the island's approach to food: simple, fresh, and deeply connected to the sea.

Where to Eat Poisson Grillé in Bora Bora:

• Matira Beach Restaurant
  • Location: Matira, Bora Bora
  • Description: Located on the shores of Matira Beach, this restaurant serves freshly caught fish grilled to perfection, offering an authentic taste of Bora Bora's seafood.
• Bloody Mary's
  • Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora
  • Description: Known for its fresh seafood, Bloody Mary's is a great place to enjoy Poisson Grillé, cooked just the way you like it, in a fun and relaxed setting.
• Aloe Café
  • Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora
  • Description: Aloe Café offers a casual dining experience with delicious grilled fish dishes made from the day’s catch. The friendly atmosphere and local flavors make it a must-visit.

Ahi Tuna: Savoring the Sea’s Bounty

Ahi Tuna, known for its firm texture and rich flavor, is one of the most popular fish in Bora Bora, often served seared, grilled, or raw as part of a dish like sashimi or poke. The freshness of the tuna is paramount, and in Bora Bora, it doesn’t get any fresher. Ahi Tuna is usually lightly seasoned to let the natural flavors shine, and it’s often paired with tropical fruits, vegetables, or a light soy-based sauce.

Whether served as a delicate sashimi or a perfectly grilled steak, Ahi Tuna offers a taste of Bora Bora’s pristine waters.

Where to Eat Ahi Tuna in Bora Bora:

• La Matira Beach Restaurant
  • Location: Matira, Bora Bora
  • Description: Located right on the beach, La Matira offers an exquisite Ahi Tuna dish that highlights the freshness of the local catch. Enjoy it while watching the sunset over the lagoon.
• The Lagoon by Jean-Georges
  • Location: The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
  • Description: For a more upscale experience, The Lagoon by Jean-Georges offers Ahi Tuna prepared with a gourmet twist, blending French techniques with Polynesian flavors.
• Bora Bora Yacht Club
  • Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora
  • Description: A relaxed yet sophisticated spot, the Bora Bora Yacht Club serves up fresh Ahi Tuna dishes with a view of the stunning lagoon. The perfect place to enjoy a meal after a day on the water.

Tamaaraa: A Polynesian Feast

Tamaaraa is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Polynesian culture and community. This traditional feast involves a variety of dishes cooked in an underground oven called an ahimaa, similar to a Hawaiian imu. The oven is filled with hot stones, and the food—typically pork, fish, taro, and breadfruit—is wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked to perfection.

The result is a smoky, tender array of dishes that are often shared with family and friends during special occasions. A Tamaaraa is a true taste of Polynesian hospitality and culinary tradition.

Where to Experience Tamaaraa in Bora Bora:

• The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
  • Location: Motu Piti Aau, Bora Bora
  • Description: The InterContinental offers guests a traditional Tamaaraa experience, complete with an ahimaa cooking demonstration and a feast of local dishes in a beautiful beachside setting.
• Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts
  • Location: Motu Tevairoa, Bora Bora
  • Description: This luxury resort hosts a weekly Tamaaraa, where guests can enjoy a Polynesian buffet with dishes cooked in a traditional ahimaa oven, accompanied by live music and dance.
• Vaitape Village Feast
  • Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora
  • Description: For a more local experience, head to Vaitape Village, where community feasts are held regularly. Here, you can partake in a traditional Tamaaraa, enjoying the authentic flavors and the warm hospitality of the islanders.

I’a Ota: A Polynesian Ceviche

I’a Ota is Bora Bora’s version of ceviche, where fresh raw fish is marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, much like Poisson Cru. However, I’a Ota often incorporates different fish varieties and a unique blend of Polynesian spices and ingredients like ginger, garlic, and chili peppers. This dish is a perfect example of how Bora Bora blends traditional Polynesian flavors with a touch of French influence.

The result is a tangy, creamy, and slightly spicy dish that is as refreshing as it is flavorful—perfect for a light meal or appetizer on a warm island day.

Where to Eat I’a Ota in Bora Bora:

• Chez Louise
  • Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora
  • Description: A hidden gem in Vaitape, Chez Louise serves a delicious I’a Ota that captures the authentic flavors of Bora Bora. The friendly atmosphere and local vibe make it a must-visit.
• Le Panda d'Or
  • Location: Matira, Bora Bora
  • Description: Known for its fusion of Asian and Polynesian cuisines, Le Panda d'Or offers a unique take on I’a Ota, blending traditional ingredients with a touch of modern flair.
• Fare Manuia
  • Location: Matira Beach, Bora Bora
  • Description: Located on the famous Matira Beach, Fare Manuia offers a refreshing I’a Ota that’s perfect for enjoying alongside the stunning ocean views and a cold drink.

Pain Po'e: A Polynesian Banana Bread Delight

Pain Po’e is a traditional Polynesian dessert that is beloved in Bora Bora. Made from a base of mashed bananas (or other tropical fruits like papaya or pumpkin), flour, and coconut milk, Pain Po’e is a rich, pudding-like dessert that is sweet, comforting, and full of tropical flavor. It’s typically baked until soft and then served with a drizzle of coconut cream, making it an irresistible treat for those with a sweet tooth.

This dessert is often enjoyed during special occasions, but it’s also a popular treat in local eateries across the island.

Where to Eat Pain Po’e in Bora Bora:

• Snack Matira
  • Location: Matira, Bora Bora
  • Description: This local favorite offers a delicious and authentic Pain Po’e, perfect for a sweet end to your meal. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot to enjoy this traditional dessert.
• Le Moana
  • Location: Matira, Bora Bora
  • Description: Located in the heart of Matira, Le Moana serves up a delightful Pain Po’e, made fresh with local ingredients. Enjoy it while taking in the stunning views of the lagoon.
• Bloody Mary’s
  • Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora
  • Description: In addition to its famous seafood dishes, Bloody Mary’s also offers a sweet and satisfying Pain Po’e, making it a perfect place to experience the full range of Bora Bora’s culinary delights.

So, whether you're indulging in the tropical sweetness of Pain Po’e or savoring the smoky richness of a traditional Tamaaraa feast, every bite in Bora Bora is a journey into the heart of Polynesian culture.