Bora Bora’s Must-Try Restaurants: A Cook’s Tour of Polynesian Cuisine

Looking for the best dining experiences in Bora Bora? Nestled in the heart of French Polynesia, Bora Bora offers more than just idyllic landscapes and crystalline lagoons. This paradise island features a remarkable fusion of traditional Polynesian flavours mixed with world-class sophistication, bringing a whole new savoury dimension to your Tahitian adventure. In this blog, we’re diving deep into the culinary heart of Bora Bora, so sit back and prepare to salivate as we recommend the top must-try restaurants in this tropical paradise.

Villa Mahana

Tucked away from the busy resorts, Villa Mahana offers an intimate dining experience. Run by the celebrated chef Damien Rinaldi-Dovio, this restaurant serves up a succulent fusion of French and Tahitian cuisine. Do not miss Rinaldi’s signature dish, the melt-in-your-mouth Lobster Ravioli, which is just as much a visual feast as it is a gastronomic delight.

St. James Bora Bora

Perched over the stunning Bora Bora lagoon, St. James boasts a panoramic view that complements its exquisite menu. It’s no wonder it’s often regarded as one of the most romantic spots on the island. Their dishes, such as the Poisson Cru (raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk) are presented in a contemporary way that elevates the traditional Tahitian fare.

Bloody Mary’s

More than just a restaurant, Bloody Mary’s has become a Bora Bora institution since its opening in 1979. Famous for its sand floors and tropical ambience, expect nothing less than the freshest seafood caught from local waters. Don’t pass up on their Catch of the Day, where you can pick from a selection of fish and shellfish to be cooked to your liking - grilled, blackened, or sautéed.

La Matira Beach Restaurant

For an open-air dining experience with your toes in the sand, La Matira Beach Restaurant is the place. Here, you’ll find a diverse menu filled with Polynesian classics, pizza, and even burgers. Their Tahitian Raw Fish Salad marinated in coconut milk is a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike.

Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges

For those wanting an upscale dining experience, the Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges at the St. Regis Resort is a must. With glass-bottom floors and unbeatable views of Mount Otemanu, there’s no better backdrop for sampling a menu curated by a Michelin-starred chef. Try the Polynesian-inspired dishes like the Crispy-Pop Shrimp with a sweet and sour chili sauce or the Grilled Tuna Niçoise.

Bora Bora’s dining scene is all about extravagance, from the fresh, exotic ingredients that embody Polynesian cuisine to the stunning locales that provide breathtaking panoramas. Embarking on a culinary journey throughout the island is an absolute must when visiting. Whether you’re seeking a mix of traditional and contemporary flavours, or the unique fusion of French and Polynesian gourmet, Bora Bora’s high-calibre dining experiences are sure to satisfy and leave you longing for more. So don’t hesitate, these are the Bora Bora must-try restaurants you should definitely tick off your list!