Inside a traditional Polynesian house, thinly sliced taro is prepared while a cat enjoys its rest, indifferent to the nearby chickens. This is not just a cooking class but a look into Moorea’s evolving food scene, spearheaded by Havaiki Brouillet’s AtunuMai Moorea Culinary.
Moorea, often overshadowed by Tahiti, is stepping into the spotlight of culinary tourism, thanks to Tahitian chef Heimata Hall. His initiative, Tahiti Food Tours, started in 2019, opened the doors for tourists to explore local eateries and taste the island’s vibrant flavors. The Moorea Tama’a street food tour is particularly notable, offering visitors a taste of everything from casse-croute sandwiches to pai, a starchy dish made from breadfruit or taro.
The island’s appeal only grows with experiences like the K Restaurant inside the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort. Guests dine in style with the sand beneath their feet and a view of the lagoon in front of them. The menu, crafted by Chef Frédéric Gigou, combines Tahitian and Asian flavors with French culinary techniques, with highlights such as parsley-crusted mahi-mahi and tuna sashimi.
For an immersive culinary experience, AtunuMai Moorea Culinary offers traditional Tahitian cooking classes led by Havaiki Brouillet. Set in a scenic Polynesian home, these classes teach participants to prepare Tahitian favorites like poisson cru and pōe alongside breadfruit dishes.
Adventure seekers might opt for Poema Du Prel’s spearfishing class. Even beginners can learn to catch fish in shallow waters, and after the catch, they’re shown how to prepare their fish as fresh sashimi. This hands-on experience wraps up with the extraction of coconut juice.
A simple yet charming dining option is Snack Mahana, a family-owned eatery offering substantial portions of seafood delights like garlic shrimp and poisson cru. Its popularity ensures it’s buzzing during lunch, so early arrival is advised.
Adding to Moorea’s gastronomic charm is the Tano Maitai PK 18 food truck. Dedicated to using locally sourced ingredients, it serves innovative dishes such as fish pops and cheese pops with a Marquesan twist, offering a contemporary take on local flavors.
Moorea’s transformation into a culinary hotspot is a testament to its rich blend of traditional and modern tastes. Visitors are not only experiencing remarkable flavors but are also gaining insight into a culture that celebrates its diverse culinary heritage.
Source: Forbes
