The Ultimate Mauritius Street Food Guide: 15 Must-Try Local Dishes
Forget the fancy restaurants – the real culinary soul of Mauritius lives on its streets! From sizzling Chinese-Mauritian noodles to Indian-inspired rotis, Mauritian street food is a delicious reflection of the island’s multicultural heritage. This comprehensive guide takes you on a flavorful journey through the must-try street foods of Mauritius, complete with where to find them and what to pay.
Why Mauritius Street Food is Special
Mauritius is one of the few places on Earth where Indian, Chinese, African, and European culinary traditions don’t just coexist – they blend into something entirely unique. Our street food tells the story of our island: Indian indentured workers brought dholl puri, Chinese immigrants introduced mine frite, African slaves contributed to the spicy chutneys, and French colonists influenced our pastries. Every bite is a history lesson!
1. Dholl Puri – The National Street Food
What is it?
Thin, soft yellow pancakes made from ground split peas, filled with bean curry (lima beans), pickles, chutney, and rougaille (tomato sauce). Think of it as Mauritius’ answer to the burrito.
Taste Profile: Savory, slightly spicy, incredibly satisfying
Where to Find the Best:
- Port Louis Central Market – The birthplace of dholl puri
- Rose Hill Market – Local favorite spot
- Quatre Bornes Market – Less touristy, authentic taste
Price: Rs 20-30 ($0.50-$0.75) per pair
Insider Tip: Always buy dholl puri in pairs (that’s how locals do it). Ask for extra chutney if you like it spicy, and watch them make it fresh – the spectacle is part of the experience!
When to Eat: Best enjoyed hot for breakfast or lunch. Avoid after 2 PM as the quality drops.
2. Gateaux Piment (Chili Cakes)
What is it?
Deep-fried balls of ground split peas mixed with chilies, spring onions, and spices. Crispy outside, fluffy inside, and addictively spicy.
Taste Profile: Spicy, crunchy, savory
Where to Find the Best:
- Beach vendors at Flic en Flac (especially at sunset)
- Grand Baie night market
- Any local "snack" shop
Price: Rs 5-10 ($0.12-$0.25) per piece
Local Secret: The best gateaux piment vendors are usually the ones with the longest queues. Also, try them with mint chutney – it’s a game-changer!
Perfect Pairing: Enjoyed with a cold local Phoenix beer on the beach.
3. Samosas (Samoussas)
What is it?
Triangular fried pastries filled with vegetables, cheese, fish, or meat. The Mauritian version is smaller and crispier than Indian samosas.
Taste Profile: Crispy, savory, variety of fillings
Where to Find the Best:
- Flacq Market (Wednesdays and Sundays)
- Port Louis Street Vendors (near the Company Garden)
- Mahebourg Monday Market
Price: Rs 5-15 ($0.12-$0.40) each
Varieties to Try:
- Legumes (Vegetable): Classic potato and peas
- Poisson (Fish): Usually tuna with herbs
- Fromage (Cheese): Melted cheese heaven
- Viande (Meat): Spiced beef or chicken
Pro Tip: Buy an assorted plate to try all varieties. The cheese ones are particularly popular with kids.
4. Mine Frite (Fried Noodles)
What is it?
Stir-fried egg noodles with vegetables, egg, and your choice of chicken, pork, or seafood. It’s Chinese-Mauritian comfort food at its finest.
Taste Profile: Savory, slightly sweet, umami-rich
Where to Find the Best:
- Port Louis Chinatown (best after 6 PM)
- Quatre Bornes Night Market
- Street vendors near Rose Hill bus station
Price: Rs 50-80 ($1.25-$2) per portion
Customization: Ask for "piquant" if you want it spicy, "sans viande" for vegetarian
Best Time: Evening snack or late-night food – it’s the Mauritian answer to drunk food!
5. Farata (Roti)
What is it?
Flaky, buttery flatbread served with curry, pickles, and chutneys. Similar to Indian paratha but with a Mauritian twist.
Taste Profile: Buttery, flaky, perfect curry vessel
Where to Find the Best:
- Camp Diable (near SSR Airport) – 24-hour faratas!
- Phoenix (near Jumbo hypermarket)
- Vacoas Market
Price: Rs 15-25 ($0.40-$0.65) per piece
Must-Try Combination: Farata with "cari poule" (chicken curry) and "chatini cotomili" (coriander chutney)
Cultural Note: Watching the farata maker stretch and fold the dough is mesmerizing – it’s an art form!
6. Boulettes (Dumplings)
What is it?
Steamed dumplings made from fish, meat, or vegetables, served in a light broth. Chinese-influenced but uniquely Mauritian.
Taste Profile: Delicate, umami, comforting
Where to Find the Best:
- Port Louis Central Market (multiple vendors)
- Rose Hill (near the Arab Town area)
- Curepipe Market
Price: Rs 10-15 ($0.25-$0.40) per dumpling
Types Available:
- Poisson (Fish): Most traditional
- Crevette (Shrimp): Premium option
- Poulet (Chicken): Popular choice
- Chouchou (Chayote): Vegetarian option
Serving Suggestion: Order a mixed bowl with different types and extra broth – perfect for cold, rainy days.
7. Gateau Arouille (Taro Cakes)
What is it?
Fried cakes made from taro root (arouille), crispy outside and purple-grey inside with a unique earthy flavor.
Taste Profile: Earthy, crispy, slightly sweet
Where to Find the Best:
- Mahebourg Waterfront (Monday market)
- Central Flacq Market
- Local village festivals
Price: Rs 10-20 ($0.25-$0.50) each
Cultural Significance: Often served during Tamil festivals and celebrations
How to Eat: Best enjoyed hot with tamarind chutney
8. Alouda
What is it?
A refreshing drink/dessert made with milk, basil seeds (toukhmaria), agar jelly, and flavored syrup. It’s like bubble tea’s exotic cousin.
Taste Profile: Sweet, creamy, refreshing
Where to Find the Best:
- Port Louis Central Market (multiple vendors)
- Grand Baie (beach road)
- Mahebourg (near the bus station)
Price: Rs 30-50 ($0.75-$1.25) per glass
Flavors to Try:
- Vanilla: Classic choice
- Almond: Local favorite
- Rose: Refreshing and floral
- Pistachio: Premium option
Best Time: Perfect afternoon refresher when the sun is at its peak
9. Poutou (Steamed Rice Cakes)
What is it?
Steamed cylindrical rice cakes often filled with coconut and served with curry or chutneys. Tamil-origin dish that’s become thoroughly Mauritian.
Taste Profile: Mild, slightly sweet, spongy texture
Where to Find the Best:
- Tamil festivals (best quality)
- Quatre Bornes Market (Thursday and Sunday mornings)
- Port Louis (near Tamil temples)
Price: Rs 10-15 ($0.25-$0.40) each
Traditional Pairing: Served with spicy lentil curry or coconut chutney
Cultural Note: Often prepared for religious ceremonies – if you see them at a temple, they’re likely extra fresh!
10. Dal Puri
What is it?
Similar to dholl puri but made with different lentils, giving it a distinct yellow color and nuttier flavor.
Taste Profile: Nutty, hearty, filling
Where to Find the Best:
- Goodlands Market (Friday and Saturday)
- Triolet (near the temple)
- Port Louis (Immigration Square area)
Price: Rs 25-35 ($0.65-$0.90) per pair
Difference from Dholl Puri: Thicker, more filling, and traditionally served with bean curry and pickles
Local Tip: Friday mornings are the best time to get fresh dal puri
11. Chana Puri (Chickpea Flatbread)
What is it?
Fried bread served with chickpea curry, similar to Indian chole bhature but with Mauritian spices.
Taste Profile: Spicy, tangy, incredibly filling
Where to Find the Best:
- Rose Hill (near Plaza theater)
- Vacoas (Phoenix area)
- Port Louis (Company Gardens vicinity)
Price: Rs 30-40 ($0.75-$1) per serving
Warning: Extremely filling – one serving is usually enough for a full meal!
Best Enjoyed: As a late breakfast or early lunch
12. Rougaille Saucisse (Sausage Rougaille)
What is it?
Spicy tomato-based sauce with local sausages, served with bread or rice. It’s Creole comfort food at its finest.
Taste Profile: Spicy, tangy, hearty
Where to Find the Best:
- Local "cantine" (small restaurants)
- Beach vendors (especially South coast)
- Village festivals
Price: Rs 50-70 ($1.25-$1.75) with bread
Authentic Version: Look for vendors using "saucisse pays" (local artisanal sausages) rather than commercial ones
Perfect Setting: Best enjoyed at a beach "ti boutik" (small shop) with your feet in the sand
13. Halim
What is it?
A hearty porridge made from wheat, lentils, and meat (usually beef or mutton), slow-cooked for hours. Perfect comfort food.
Taste Profile: Rich, hearty, mildly spiced
Where to Find the Best:
- Port Louis (during Ramadan)
- Plaine Verte area
- Phoenix (near Jumbo)
Price: Rs 40-60 ($1-$1.50) per bowl
When Available: Year-round but best during Ramadan when it’s freshly made daily
Garnish: Served with fried onions, ginger, and lime
14. Chow Mein Frite (Fried Chow Mein)
What is it?
Crispy fried noodles topped with a thick sauce containing vegetables and meat/seafood. Different from mine frite – this is crunchier!
Taste Profile: Crunchy, saucy, umami-packed
Where to Find the Best:
- Chinatown Port Louis
- Quatre Bornes (near the market)
- Rose Hill (Arab Town area)
Price: Rs 60-90 ($1.50-$2.25) per plate
Texture Secret: The best versions have noodles that stay crispy even with sauce
Order Like a Local: Ask for "extra crispy" if you like more crunch
15. Pudding Mais (Corn Pudding)
What is it?
Sweet corn pudding sold in banana leaf parcels, a dessert that bridges African and Indian influences.
Taste Profile: Sweet, creamy, comforting
Where to Find the Best:
- Mahebourg Market
- Flacq Market
- Beach vendors (Blue Bay area)
Price: Rs 20-30 ($0.50-$0.75) per piece
Traditional Touch: Only buy from vendors wrapping in actual banana leaves, not plastic
Seasonal Note: Best during corn season (December to March)
Street Food Etiquette & Tips
Do’s:
- Eat where locals eat – follow the crowds
- Bring small bills – vendors rarely have change for Rs 1000 notes
- Try everything – portions are small and cheap
- Ask questions – vendors love explaining their food
- Eat immediately – street food is best hot and fresh
Don’ts:
- Don’t be afraid of spice – but do ask for "doux" (mild) if needed
- Don’t eat street food on Mondays – many ingredients aren’t fresh after the weekend
- Don’t miss breakfast street food – some items are only available mornings
- Don’t stick to tourist areas – the best food is in local neighborhoods
Best Street Food Routes
Port Louis Heritage Walk:
- Start at Central Market for dholl puri
- Walk to Chinatown for boulettes
- End at Company Garden for gateaux piment
Duration: 2-3 hours
Flacq Market Adventure (Wed/Sun):
- Early morning dal puri
- Mid-morning samosas
- Lunch mine frite
- Dessert pudding mais
Duration: 4 hours
Grand Baie Evening Tour:
- Sunset gateaux piment on the beach
- Dinner mine frite at the market
- Night cap alouda
Duration: 2-3 hours
Hygiene & Safety Tips
What to Look For:
- High turnover – food doesn’t sit around
- Cooking to order – especially fried items
- Clean oil – should be golden, not black
- Covered ingredients – protection from dust
- Hand washing facilities – good vendors have water and soap
Stomach Survival Guide:
- Build tolerance – start with less spicy items
- Stay hydrated – keep water handy
- Fresh only – avoid pre-made items sitting in the sun
- Trust your instincts – if it looks dodgy, skip it
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
Mauritius is surprisingly vegetarian-friendly! Look for:
- Dholl puri (ask for vegetarian filling)
- Vegetable samosas
- Gateaux piment (usually vegan)
- Chana puri
- Vegetable mine frite
- Alouda (specify no milk for vegan)
Budget Guide
Ultra Budget (Under Rs 100/$2.50 per day):
- Breakfast: 2 dholl puri (Rs 30)
- Lunch: Vegetable mine frite (Rs 50)
- Snack: 2 samosas (Rs 20)
Standard Budget (Rs 200/$5 per day):
- Breakfast: Dal puri with extras (Rs 40)
- Lunch: Chicken mine frite (Rs 70)
- Snack: Gateaux piment and alouda (Rs 50)
- Dinner: Farata with curry (Rs 40)
Foodie Splurge (Rs 400/$10 per day):
- Try everything! This budget lets you sample 8-10 different items daily
Seasonal Specialties
Summer (Nov-April):
- Fresh fruit salads with chili salt
- Pineapple "ananas" with tamarind sauce
- Fresh coconut water
Winter (May-Oct):
- Hot halim
- Soup boulettes
- Masala tea from street vendors
Festival Specials:
- Divali: Special sweet gateaux
- Chinese New Year: Premium dumplings
- Eid: Halim and special biryanis
Language Guide for Ordering
Essential Phrases:
- "Enn dholl puri" – One dholl puri
- "Pikan" – Spicy
- "Dou" – Mild
- "San vian" – Without meat
- "Plis satini" – More chutney
- "Komie sa?" – How much?
Health Benefits & Concerns
The Good:
- Fresh ingredients prepared daily
- Small portions = natural portion control
- Many fermented foods (good for gut health)
- Lots of legumes and vegetables
Watch Out For:
- High oil content in fried items
- Sugar levels in drinks
- Sodium in pickles and chutneys
- Spice levels if you have stomach issues
Modern Twists on Traditional Street Food
Some vendors now offer fusion versions:
- Pizza dholl puri – with cheese and pizza sauce
- Chocolate samosas – dessert version
- Noodle burgers – mine frite in a bun
- Alouda smoothie bowls – Instagram-friendly versions
Street Food Tours with Exotic Vacances
Can’t navigate the street food scene alone? Join our guided street food tours:
Morning Market Tour (4 hours):
- Visit 3 local markets
- Try 10+ different dishes
- Learn about ingredients and preparation
- Market shopping tips
- Rs 2000 per person (includes all food)
Evening Street Food Safari (3 hours):
- Sunset snacks on the beach
- Night market exploration
- 8+ tastings
- Local drink pairings
- Rs 1800 per person
Private Foodie Experience:
- Customized to your preferences
- Dietary restrictions accommodated
- Personal guide and transport
- 15+ tastings
- Rs 5000 per couple
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is street food safe for tourists?
A: Yes, if you follow basic hygiene rules. Stick to busy vendors and freshly cooked items.
Q: Can I find halal street food?
A: Absolutely! Much of Mauritian street food is halal. Look for "HALAL" signs or ask vendors.
Q: What if I can’t handle spicy food?
A: Always ask for "dou" (mild) versions. Most vendors can adjust spice levels.
Q: Best time of day for street food?
A: Morning (6-10 AM) for breakfast items, evening (4-8 PM) for snacks and dinner options.
Q: Should I tip street vendors?
A: Not expected, but rounding up to the nearest Rs 10 is appreciated.
Your Street Food Adventure Awaits!
Mauritian street food is more than just a meal – it’s a journey through our island’s history, culture, and heart. Every vendor has a story, every dish has a heritage, and every bite connects you to the authentic Mauritius that exists beyond the resort walls.
Ready to embark on your street food adventure? Contact Exotic Vacances for guided tours or personalized recommendations based on your location and preferences.
Contact us:
- Phone: +230-52565076
- Email: info@exoticvacances.com
- WhatsApp: +230-52565076
Bon appétit, or as we say in Mauritius – "manz bien!"