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The Seychelles is an island country, 115 islands long, in the Indian Ocean, around 932 miles east of mainland Africa. It’s just northeast of the island of Madagascar.
The Seychelles is an island country, 115 islands long, in the Indian Ocean, around 932 miles east of mainland Africa. It’s just northeast of the island of Madagascar. But, even if you enter “Seychelles” into Google Maps, they’re still hard to find. That’s how small (read: hidden paradise) they are.
The Indian Ocean is known for its rich bounty of large and flavorful fish. Tuna, King Fish, and Octopus are among the most popular.
Seychelles cuisine is highly influenced by the Chinese, French, Indian, African, and English customs. Phew! That’s a lot of customs! It’s very rich and exotic, prepared with hot condiments and spices. The staple is curry and rice, which may be eaten two or three times a day. Curries may complement meat or fish. Coconut milk is a local ingredient used in curries that makes them both rich and delicious.
Some common spices other than the big-flavored curry? Cinnamon, cloves, garlic, mint, ginger, cayenne, and cardamom are all often used. That’s a spice rack perfectly suited for the bounty of the sea!
Fish are frequently fried or grilled. They’re also often cooked over a wood fire and served with sweet and sour chutneys. Try the octopus basted with a sauce of crushed ginger, chillies, and garlic. It’s a local fave. Also consider Rougaille, a tangy tomato sauce over grilled fresh fish stuffed with chillies. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try Shark Chutney. It’s stir-fried and seasoned with aromatic bilimbi fruits, herbs, and onions.
Now that you know what goes into the food of the Seychelles, we’ll next learn about what to do when you’re not eating.
Usually, when I write about the best seafood locales in the world, I start off with some geographical information and a short historical account to give the reader a good flavor of the region. Which, in this case, happens to be a nation of islands located to the east of Africa.
But, there are restaurants in the Seychelles that tell the story on my behalf. Yep. They’re that good. So, if you ever find yourself on one of these islands, take it from me — visit these restaurants.
Quick note: When you begin investigating, you’ll quickly find that most Seychelles islands are either uninhabited or close to it. Mahe, Praslin Island, and Victoria are among the most restaurant-heavy islands in this tiny archipelago.
Mahe’s gem: La Perle Noir
If you’re looking for a romantic restaurant with great food in the Beau Vallon area, this is the place to go. When making the reservation, ask to sit outside, because, well, who wouldn’t want to sit outside in a tropical paradise? Its fresh catches come highly recommended from former patrons and hotel concierges alike.
Praslin’s best restaurant: Café des Arts
This place has it all — beautiful setting, delicious food at a decent price and friendly service (which is sometimes hard to come by in these parts). Can you tender a guess about what’s great on their menu? If you guessed stewed squirrel, that is not it. Seafood is, of course, their forte!
Victoria’s Blue Ribbon Restaurant: Kaz Zanana
Here, delicious Creole seafood is served in a former Seychellois house that’s been expertly restored and adorned with local artisans’ wares. Its location is a little off the beaten path, too, if avoiding tourists is high on your list.
We’ve learned about where to get delicious food in the Seychelles. Next, we’ll learn what goes into Seychellois food that makes it so irresistible.
