Are you ready for a unique culinary adventure? Spending a day eating only Vanuatu-made products on the beautiful island of Efate is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and support local businesses. Here's a guide to help you enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience.
Tips for Eating Vanuatu-Made Products on Efate
- Explore Local Markets: Port Vila Market and smaller roadside stalls are treasure troves of fresh, local produce and snacks.
- Ask for Local Options: When dining out, ask your server about dishes made with locally sourced ingredients to ensure you're supporting local farmers and producers.
- Try Traditional Foods: Don’t miss out on traditional Vanuatu dishes like laplap, simboro, and tuluk (meat wrapped in banana leaves).
- Stay Hydrated: The tropical climate can be hot, so drink plenty of water and fresh coconut water to stay hydrated.
Proposed itinerary:
Breakfast at Nambawan Café
Start your day at Nambawan Café in Port Vila, a popular spot known for its delicious breakfast offerings made from local ingredients. Try a fresh tropical fruit platter featuring papaya, mango, and bananas, all grown on Efate. Pair it with a cup of Tanna coffee, grown and roasted on the nearby island of Tanna.
Shopping at Port Vila Market
After breakfast, head to the bustling Port Vila Market to stock up on Vanuatu-made snacks. Look for:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables: coconuts, pineapples, wild raspberries, bananas…
- Local nuts and dried fruits: nagae nuts, peanuts, and sun-dried bananas.
- Baked goods: Vanuatu's traditional laplap (a root vegetable cake) and simboro (a dish made of grated root crops and coconut milk wrapped in island cabbage).
Explore and Shop at 83 Islands Distillery
Drive to 83 islands and visit the local distillery that produces a variety of handcrafted spirits using Vanuatu-grown ingredients. Take a tour to learn about the distillation process and sample some of their unique products, such as rum and liquors infused with tropical fruits.
Lunch at Tamanu on the beach
Drive to Tamanu on the Beach, a resort that serves mouth-watering dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Order poulet fish, often caught in the surrounding waters, and enjoy it with a side of organic vegetables from local farms. Poulet fish is renowned for its delicious taste and firm, white flesh. Don’t forget to try the coconut-infused rice for a true taste of the island.
Afternoon Snack at Gaston Chocolat
Make a sweet stop at Gaston Chocolat, a renowned chocolatier in Port Vila. Indulge in artisanal chocolates made from locally grown cocoa beans. Try a selection of dark and milk chocolates, or opt for their unique chocolate bars infused with local ingredients like coconut or kava. This stop will give you a delicious insight into Vanuatu's burgeoning chocolate industry.
Drinks at Banyan Beach Bar
At sunset time, make your way to Banyan Beach Bar to sample some local beverages. Taste Vanuatu's famous kava, a traditional drink made from the root of the kava plant, known for its relaxing properties. If you're in the mood for something different, try a Tusker beer, Vanuatu's locally brewed lager, which is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Dinner at Mangoes resort
For dinner, head to Mangoes resort lush gardens. Make sure you book the "trust the chef" menu 24 hours in advance. It is a culinary adventure, featuring the freshest local produce crafted into inventive unique dishes. Dive into the true taste of Vanuatu and support local farmers and fishermen with every bite.