The South Pacific: A Foodie’s Paradise

Head South. Find Taste.

The Pacific Ocean is sprinkled with thousands of islands that make up this remarkable region of the world. With each country having their own distinct culture and personality, it's no surprise that they all have their own distinguished tastes and flavours as well. Being isolated from larger mainland countries, means that a lot of meals are created with fresh produce from their own or neighbouring islands. The result? Some of the most mouth-watering meals you've had in your life. As South Pacific experts who regularly visit our destinations to sample the local delights, we feel pretty qualified in sharing our top destinations for food lovers.

Norfolk Island – Bailey's Restaurant

You don't need a passport to experience some of the best food that the South Pacific has on offer. Located to the East of New South Wales lies the historic paradise that is Norfolk Island. And while it’s beauty is largely unmatched, it has become a must-visit destination for the modern Foodie! This includes Bailey's restaurant, which combines a relaxed atmosphere with a fine dining experience. Discover this heritage house-turned-restaurant and experience the best food Norfolk Island has to offer. A holiday on Norfolk Island is not complete without experiencing Bailey's local flavours, with a wine list to match.

Fiji – Jean-Michel Cousteau Restaurant

Still close to Australian shores lies the distinctive island nation of Fiji. A stand out for all who visit is the Jean-Michel Cousteau Restaurant. Overlooking the Fijian waterfront, indulge in this five-star dining experience, suited for families and couples alike. If you’re looking for a more romantic evening, we recommend booking a private table on the pier and be inspired by moonlight reflecting on the water’s calm surface.

Run by Chef Lee, all ingredients are sourced from the local area and other regions of Fiji. This includes the resort’s very own Organic farm which is used to grow many herbs, fruits and vegetables that are used in their dishes. Specialising in Fijian food, this is the perfect place to try a traditional Fijian Lovo Feast, where many delicacies are cooked in a fire pit covered with banana leaves. Chef Lee also incorporates his Asian heritage to create an array of dishes to please a variety of pallets.

Samoa -  Seabreeze Resort Waterfront Restaurant

Aptly named, the Seabreeze Resort Waterfront restaurant is situated right on the waterfront, looking over the unsurpassed lagoons and reefs of Samoa. Offering a variety of dishes – from locally caught seafood delicacies to first-class western dishes, the Seabreeze Resort has a range of award-winning meals to please the fussiest of eaters. Only matched by their customer service, a trip to this Samoan gem will not disappoint.

Cook Islands - Antipodes Restaurant

Rarotonga, known as the Resort Island as you can easily drive around and enjoy local restaurants dotted around the entire island is home to a truly unique dining experience.
Situated on the hill is Antipodes Restaurant. Looking out over the vast ocean with views over Rarotonga, this Meditteranian-themed, Restaurant is sure to impress with fresh caught seafood and Meditteranian-inspired dishes served.

Tantalise Your Taste Buds:

Enjoy countless foodie experiences in the South Pacific, including Tahiti and her Islands - view Tahiti holiday packages, or book Fiji holiday packages, one aspect of these destinations often overlooked is their culinary prowess. Each island, from Bora Bora to Norfolk Island, offers a unique gastronomic adventure that food lovers will relish.

On Cook Islands holidays, you're sure to fall in love with the local cuisine's vibrant flavours. The nation's abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood give rise to dishes like Ika Mata, a delicious raw fish salad marinated in lime and coconut. Ensure to try the national dessert, poke, made from ripe bananas and tapioca during your Cook Islands travel. The Muri night market is a fantastic place to sample these and other local delicacies.

Tahiti holiday packages provide food enthusiasts with an unforgettable epicurean journey. Tahitian cuisine is a blend of traditional Polynesian flavours and French culinary influence. Poisson Cru, raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, is a must-try. Tahiti's vibrant food market, Le Marché, located in Papeete, offers a variety of local fruits, vegetables, and freshly caught seafood.

When you travel to Fiji as part of Fiji holiday packages, don't miss out on trying the national dish, Kokoda. This refreshing ceviche-like dish, prepared with fish, lime, and coconut, is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy. Also, partaking in a traditional Fijian lovo, where food is cooked in a pit oven, is a culinary experience not to be missed.

Bora Bora holidays are synonymous with luxury dining experiences. Alongside fresh seafood and tropical fruits, Bora Bora boasts fine dining restaurants where you can savour Polynesian, French, and international cuisine with panoramic views of the lagoon.

Finally, a holiday Norfolk Island isn't complete without savouring the island's locally produced cheese, honey, and coffee. The island's cuisine reflects its rich history with dishes like the traditional Norfolk Island pie. Look for Norfolk Island packages that include food tours for an immersive culinary experience.

In conclusion, the South Pacific isn't just a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers – it's a foodie's dream come true. From Cook Islands holidays to Bora Bora holidays, each offers a unique palate of flavours waiting to be discovered.

For more information on any of the destinations above, or to enquire about booking a South Pacific food-lovers escape, get in touch with Spacifica Travel today on 1800 800 722.