Dining & Shows

Vanuatu offers a dining experience that is as vibrant and diverse as the islands themselves. The country’s unique blend of Melanesian, French, and Australian influences comes together in a culinary scene that reflects the flavours of the South Pacific. From traditional dishes prepared using age-old methods to modern takes on island cuisine, dining in Vanuatu is an adventure for the senses. Coupled with themed shows that showcase the island’s customs and traditions, a visit to Vanuatu is not just about eating—it's about experiencing the culture in every bite and performance.

At the heart of Vanuatu’s food culture are the traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations. One of the most iconic meals is lap-lap, a dish made from root vegetables such as yam, manioc, or taro, mixed with coconut milk, and often wrapped in banana leaves before being cooked in an earth oven, or imu. The result is a deliciously smoky, hearty meal that is rich in flavor. Lap-lap is often served with meat, like chicken, pork, or fish, and is a perfect example of the island's communal approach to food. This slow-cooked delicacy brings together fresh, locally sourced ingredients and the island’s age-old cooking methods, offering a true taste of Vanuatu’s cultural heritage.

Another beloved dish is mokoi, a coconut-based pudding made from grated coconut, sugar, and banana, wrapped in leaves and cooked in an underground oven. The creamy sweetness of the coconut pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the banana, creating a comforting dessert that reflects the island’s tropical abundance. Fish, particularly freshly caught tuna, is also a central part of Vanuatu’s cuisine, often grilled or served in a coconut cream sauce that highlights the island’s rich marine resources. The flavours are bold and fresh, and meals are often accompanied by freshly picked tropical fruits such as papaya, mango, and pineapple, adding a refreshing sweetness to each dish.

For a truly immersive experience, dining in Vanuatu is often paired with themed shows that celebrate the island’s history and culture. One of the most popular experiences is the kastom feast, a traditional celebration where guests are treated to a variety of local dishes while being entertained by cultural performances. During these events, dancers in colourful costumes perform traditional dances, telling stories of Vanuatu’s ancestors and legends. The rhythms of the drums echo through the night, and the bright colours of the costumes create a mesmerizing atmosphere as you indulge in the local fare.

In Port Vila, many restaurants and resorts offer themed dinner nights that showcase Vanuatu’s culinary heritage. From lovo feasts (a traditional underground cooking method similar to imu) to fresh seafood barbecues on the beach, these experiences provide an opportunity to sample a wide variety of dishes in stunning settings. Many venues combine food with entertainment, where guests can enjoy a delicious meal while watching traditional performances, such as the singsing, a lively song and dance ritual that tells stories of the land and sea.

Dining in Vanuatu is more than just a meal—it’s a sensory journey that allows you to savour the island’s rich history, vibrant culture, and bountiful resources. Whether enjoying a traditional lap-lap cooked in an earth oven, savouring fresh seafood on the beach, or participating in a themed feast with a cultural show, Vanuatu offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the flavours and traditions of the Pacific. It’s an experience that will leave you with lasting memories, not just of the food, but of the island’s warmth and hospitality.