Artisan Cheeses of Mauritius: A Growing Trend

Cheese has traditionally played a minor role in Mauritian cuisine, often imported and consumed as part of European-style dishes. But in recent years, a small group of passionate cheesemakers—many inspired by French and Swiss heritage or trained abroad—have begun producing artisan cheeses right on the island.

This shift is part of a larger movement in Mauritius that values local, sustainable, and handcrafted food. With fertile land, a growing appreciation for farm-to-table concepts, and tourism demand for gourmet experiences, artisan cheeses have found a natural home here.

Meet the Makers: Local Cheese Artisans of Mauritius

1. La Maison du Fromage – Midlands

Located in the cooler central region, La Maison du Fromage specializes in French-style cheeses made with fresh cow and goat milk sourced from their own farm.

Signature Cheeses:

• Camembert-style soft cheese
• Fresh chèvre with local herbs
• Tomme matured in tropical cellars

Experiences Offered:

• Farm tours and cheese tastings
• Cheese-making workshops by reservation

Price Range: $6–$15 per cheese

2. Fromagerie de Chamarel – Chamarel Hills

Tucked away in the lush forests of Chamarel, this micro-fromagerie produces limited-run cheeses with experimental twists—think local spices, turmeric rinds, and smoked banana leaf aging.

Signature Cheeses:

• Semi-hard curcuma cheese
• Ash-coated goat cheese
• Spiced paneer for fusion cooking

Why Visit:

• Offers cheese pairings with Mauritian rum and tropical fruits
• Advocates zero-waste and plastic-free production

3. Le Petit Chalet – Moka

Run by a Swiss-Mauritian couple, this small dairy operation focuses on Alpine-style cheeses using milk from their grass-fed cows.

Signature Cheeses:

• Alpine Gruyère-style wheel
• Mild raclette
• Aged cheddar with tropical notes

Tip: Visit on Sundays when they host outdoor raclette brunches with live acoustic music.

Where to Find Artisan Cheese in Mauritius

• Local Farmers’ Markets: Markets in Curepipe, Grand Baie, and Moka often feature local cheesemakers on weekends. Ask for tasting samples.
• Delicatessens and Organic Shops: Gourmet stores like The Gourmet Emporium or Ebène Organic Market carry selections of Mauritian cheeses.
• Luxury Hotels and Restaurants: Some hotels, like Lakaz Chamarel and Heritage Le Telfair, feature local cheeses on their menus.

Pairing Mauritian Cheese with Local Flavors

One of the most exciting aspects of Mauritian artisan cheese is how it pairs with other native flavors. Local producers and chefs have begun crafting tasting menus and pairing boards that reflect the island’s tropical bounty.

Perfect Pairings:

• Ash goat cheese with pink guava chutney
• Semi-soft cheese with tamarind honey glaze
• Fresh chèvre with pickled bilimbi and herbs
• Aged raclette with artisanal Mauritian rum

These combinations allow for a fusion of culinary cultures—European techniques meeting Creole creativity.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Cheese Scene

Challenges:

• Import restrictions on cheese cultures and equipment
• Humidity affecting traditional aging methods
• Limited public awareness or demand outside tourist circles

Opportunities:

• Eco-tourism and agri-tourism growth
• Culinary tourism packages that highlight local artisans
• Collaborations with resorts and high-end restaurants

How to Experience Artisan Cheese Culture as a Traveler

1. Book a Cheese Tasting Tour:
Many producers now offer private tastings and behind-the-scenes tours. Some include lunch, farm visits, and pairing sessions.

2. Join a Cooking Class with Local Cheeses:
Learn how to use Mauritian cheeses in Creole or fusion recipes—such as cheese-stuffed faratas, pineapple-and-cheese chutneys, or tropical grilled cheese sandwiches.

3. Buy Direct from Farms:
Support small businesses and ensure freshness by buying straight from the source. Most offer vacuum-sealed options for travelers to take home.

The artisan cheese scene in Mauritius is still young, but it’s already reshaping how locals and visitors experience food on the island. Beyond the beaches and curries lies a world of carefully aged, lovingly crafted cheeses that reflect both global techniques and island soul. As awareness grows and local tastes evolve, Mauritius is poised to become a new and exciting destination for cheese lovers worldwide. Let Hi DMC curate a gourmet food trail or cheese-and-wine pairing experience across Mauritius. From mountain dairies to forest tasting rooms, discover the island’s edible secrets with us.
Contact us today for artisan culinary tours and farm visits.

‍