Vegetarian Delights: Plant-Based Eating in Mauritius

While Mauritius is often praised for its seafood and Creole curries, it is also a paradise for vegetarians and plant-based eaters. Thanks to its multicultural population—primarily Hindu, Muslim, Chinese, and Creole—the island boasts a diverse food scene where vegetarian options are not just available, but celebrated.

Whether you're enjoying a flavorful dholl puri on the street, feasting on a tamarind-infused curry in a local home, or sipping herbal tea in the highlands, plant-based travelers will feel right at home in Mauritius.

‍Why Mauritius is Perfect for Plant-Based Travelers

• Cultural Diversity: Many locals follow vegetarian diets due to religious traditions, especially during Hindu festivals.
• Abundant Fresh Produce: Tropical fruits, root vegetables, legumes, and herbs are available year-round.
• Naturally Veg Dishes: Many Mauritian dishes are naturally plant-based and full of flavor.
• Budget Friendly: Street food and local restaurants offer affordable, filling veg meals.

Must-Try Vegetarian Dishes in Mauritius

1. Dholl Puri

Soft flatbreads stuffed with ground split peas, served with rougaille (tomato sauce), butter bean curry, and chutney.

Best from: Street vendors in Port Louis or Quatre Bornes

2. Gateau Piment (Chili Fritters)

Crispy, spiced lentil balls—perfect for snacking.

Find at: Local markets and tea stalls

3. Rougaille with Soya or Tofu

A Creole tomato-based stew commonly made with soya chunks or tofu for a veg twist.

Best in: Family-run eateries or eco-lodges

4. Vegetarian Briani

A Mauritian version of biryani made with fragrant rice, saffron, vegetables, and a yogurt-based sauce.

Available at: Local restaurants and Hindu celebrations

5. Chow Mein with Vegetables

Chinese-style stir-fried noodles with cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts.

Found in: Chinese restaurants and seaside food stalls

6. Curries & Pickles

Try pumpkin curry, chayote (chouchou) curry, and aubergine pickles—served with rice and roti.

Ideal at: Home dining experiences or food tours

Fruits & Drinks You’ll Love

• Fresh lychees, papayas, pineapples, and mangoes
• Sugarcane juice & tamarind juice
• Herbal tisanes made from lemongrass or citronella

Where to Eat: Vegetarian-Friendly Spots in Mauritius

Start your culinary journey in Grand Baie at Happy Rajah, where you can enjoy aromatic thalis and rich biryanis in a casual, welcoming Indian restaurant setting. It’s a go-to spot for hearty, spice-laden meals that feel like home.

For a more traditional experience, head to Escale Créole in Moka. This hidden gem offers vegan-friendly Creole cuisine served in a charming garden setting. The dishes are simple, authentic, and deeply connected to local heritage.

In Tamarin, La Bonne Chute brings together tropical vibes and rustic outdoor dining. Their flavorful veg curries and fresh salads are perfect for a laid-back lunch surrounded by nature.

If you're in Flic en Flac, don’t miss Green Papaya, a stylish spot offering vegetarian Asian fusion. With a trendy, eco-conscious vibe, this restaurant blends bold flavors with a relaxed ambiance ideal for health-conscious foodies.

Of course, no vegetarian food tour of Mauritius would be complete without sampling the vibrant street food in Port Louis. From dholl puri to gateau piment, the capital’s bustling streets offer a truly authentic taste of Mauritian life—flavorful, fast, and full of character.

Tips for Plant-Based Eating in Mauritius

• Ask for “vegetarien” or “sans viande” to clarify your dietary needs.
• Many dishes are vegan by default, but check for ghee or yogurt in Indian dishes.
• Markets are great for fresh fruit, snacks, and local herbs.
• Book home-cooked meal experiences for authentic vegetarian Mauritian cuisine.

Whether you're a dedicated vegan, vegetarian, or just trying to eat more consciously while traveling, Mauritius offers flavorful plant-based options at every turn. At Hi DMC, we offer curated food tours, cooking classes, and dining experiences that celebrate vegetarian-friendly Mauritian cuisine—from bustling markets to serene plantation homes.

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