What is the signature dish of Tahiti Et Ses Îles?

Raw fish in coconut milk (or ia ota) is the essential national dish. It consists of very fresh red tuna marinated briefly in lime juice, then mixed with freshly squeezed coconut milk and crunchy vegetables. It’s a healthy and refreshing speciality that can be found on almost every menu.

What is an Ahima'a and how can I take part?

The Ahima’a is a traditional Tahitian oven dug into the earth. Food (pork, taro, fe’i bananas) is cooked for hours on heated volcanic stones, covered with banana leaves. To get the full experience, we recommend attending a Tama’ara’a (traditional banquet), often organised in hotels or at village festivals.

Where can you eat locally at an affordable price?

For an authentic and friendly experience, the Roulottes (food trucks) are the ideal option. Located on Papeete’s seafront (Place Vai’ete), they offer generous portions of grilled meats, Chinese dishes and crêpes in a relaxed, open-air atmosphere that is popular with locals and visitors alike.

What are the usual mealtimes in Polynesia?

The rhythm of life follows that of the sun: we start early! Breakfast is often hearty, lunch is between 11.30am and 1.30pm, and dinner is served fairly early, usually from 6.30pm or 7pm. On Sunday mornings, the Papeete market is the place to go for the traditional local breakfast (puna, pua’a rôti, firi firi).

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The emblematic raw fish in coconut milk

Raw fish, or ia ota, is the undisputed mainstay of Polynesian cuisine. This emblematic recipe combines the freshness of red tuna with the sweetness of freshly squeezed coconut milk, topped with a zest of lime and crunchy vegetables. This melt-in-your-mouth, fragrant national dish is an explosion of authentic, healthy flavours.

A subtle blend of the archipelago's fragrances

Island cuisine is characterised by the noble use of local produce of exceptional quality. Chefs and families generously incorporate the delicate fragrance of Tahitian vanilla and the creaminess of coconut milk into their preparations. These natural ingredients provide the unique aromatic signature for which our region is renowned.

The Poe, an essential sweet treat

No meal, or amura’a, is complete without an authentic poe. This traditional dessert is a creamy pastry made from taro root, banana, papaya or pumpkin. Flavoured with vanilla and bathed in a coconut milk sauce, this sweet delicacy perfectly reflects the generosity and gentle way of life in Polynesia.

Frequently asked questions

What is the signature dish of Tahiti Et Ses Îles?
Raw fish in coconut milk (or ia ota) is the essential national dish. It consists of very fresh red tuna marinated briefly in lime juice, then mixed with freshly squeezed coconut milk and crunchy vegetables. It’s a healthy and refreshing speciality that can be found on almost every menu.
What is an Ahima'a and how can I take part?
The Ahima’a is a traditional Tahitian oven dug into the earth. Food (pork, taro, fe’i bananas) is cooked for hours on heated volcanic stones, covered with banana leaves. To get the full experience, we recommend attending a Tama’ara’a (traditional banquet), often organised in hotels or at village festivals.
Where can you eat locally at an affordable price?
For an authentic and friendly experience, the Roulottes (food trucks) are the ideal option. Located on Papeete’s seafront (Place Vai’ete), they offer generous portions of grilled meats, Chinese dishes and crêpes in a relaxed, open-air atmosphere that is popular with locals and visitors alike.
What are the usual mealtimes in Polynesia?
The rhythm of life follows that of the sun: we start early! Breakfast is often hearty, lunch is between 11.30am and 1.30pm, and dinner is served fairly early, usually from 6.30pm or 7pm. On Sunday mornings, the Papeete market is the place to go for the traditional local breakfast (puna, pua’a rôti, firi firi).

The friendly experience of the famous caravans

A veritable institution in Papeete, the roulottes offer a unique open-air culinary experience. These local “food trucks” offer hearty meals in a relaxed, festive atmosphere. Residents and travellers come together to enjoy grilled meats, crêpes or Chinese specialities, making each dinner a moment of sincere sharing.

Tama'ara'a and the sacred ritual of the Tahitian oven

Taking part in a Tama’ara’a is a total immersion in Ma’ohi culture. This traditional banquet features ahima’a, the cooking of food underground according to ancestral rites. Pork, fish, taro and fe’i bananas are simmered for long hours on heated volcanic stones, producing tender flesh with an incomparable smoky flavour.

A fusion of flavours from around the world

While tradition is at the heart of Tahiti Et Ses Îles’ cuisine, its international diversity also shines through. French, Chinese, Japanese and Italian influences blend harmoniously in the restaurant menus. This culinary mix allows every visitor to feel at home while exploring new horizons.

To be enjoyed again and again