Best Food of Fiji you must try

Published July 5, 2023 · Updated July 5, 2023

Fiji is a tropical paradise in the South Pacific, with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. Fiji also boasts a rich culinary heritage that is worth exploring. In this Fiji travel food guide, we explore the best Food of Fiji you must try.

Most popular cuisine in Fiji

Kokoda

Kokoda is among the most popular dishes of Fiji. This unique cuisine from Fiji is a raw fish salad that has won the hearts and taste buds of locals and tourists.

The dish is prepared by marinating fresh raw fish in citrus juice, which gives it a tangy flavor, while also “cooking” the fish. The marinated fish is mixed with coconut cream, onion, tomatoes, and chilies to create a refreshing and flavorful salad. The combination of spicy and sweet flavors and the coconut cream’s creaminess makes Kokoda a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Kokoda is often served as an appetizer or light meal and is traditionally eaten with steamed rice. The creamy texture of the dish pairs perfectly with the fluffy rice.

It’s a perfect dish to enjoy on a hot summer day, as it’s light and refreshing. The ingredients used in the dish are also readily available in Fiji, making it an accessible and affordable option for both locals and visitors.

Lovo

If you’re looking for an authentic Fijian experience, you must try Lovo. It’s a traditional cooking method where food is cooked underground using hot stones and banana leaves. Lovo usually includes meat such as chicken, pork, beef, fish, and root vegetables like cassava and taro. The result is tender, juicy meat and vegetables infused with smoky flavors.

Rourou

Rourou is a cuisine in Fiji that is one of the must-try dishes for anyone traveling to the country. It is made from Dalo or Taro leaves, which are boiled until tender and then mixed with rich and creamy coconut cream, onions, garlic, and other spices like nutmeg and ginger to create a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for vegetarians for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Rourou is one of the popular dishes in Fiji that showcases the abundant use of local ingredients, such as coconut and taro, in traditional recipes passed down through generations. Whether enjoyed as a soup or a side dish accompanying various fish or chicken dishes, Rourou is popular Fiji travel food visitors should try.

Cawaki

Cawaki, also known as sea urchin, is among the most popular Fiji dishes. Cawaki is usually found in pristine waters near coral reefs and is harvested by local fishermen. Preparing Cawaki involves cracking open the spiny shell and scooping out the sweet and creamy meat. The meat is then served raw with a squeeze of lime juice or mixed with coconut cream and spices to make a delicious dip.

Cawaki is available in famous restaurants in Fiji and is a popular dish. Some hotels in Fiji also offer Cawaki as part of their menu, allowing visitors to taste this unique seafood delicacy. Local vendors often sell freshly caught Cawaki on the streets, allowing visitors to try this mouth-watering delicacy at an affordable price.

Cawaki is among the must-try dishes in Fiji when visiting Fiji. Whether you try it at a fancy restaurant or as a street food, Cawaki is a unique seafood delicacy that will leave you wanting more.

Duruka

Duruka, also known as Fijian asparagus, is a vegetable commonly used in curries and stews. It is similar in taste and texture to asparagus but has a slightly sweeter flavor and crunchy texture. The vegetable is harvested from a large leafy plant, and the young shoots are picked before they can grow into full-sized branches.

In Fiji, Duruka is typically prepared by boiling or steaming the shoots until tender, then adding them to a flavorful curry or stew. The vegetable is often paired with seafood, coconut milk, or other traditional Fijian ingredients to create a rich and delicious dish.

If you are looking for Fiji food near me, Duruka is a must-try dish at many restaurants and hotels in Fiji. It is also a popular ingredient in Fijian dishes. Duruka is one of the most popular dishes of Fiji and is a great way to experience the unique flavors and ingredients of Fijian cuisine.

Nama

Nama is the unique and authentic street food of Fijii, also known as sea grapes. This traditional delicacy is harvested from the shallow waters surrounding the islands of Fiji and is a popular dish.

Nama is a type of edible seaweed that grows in pristine waters and has a unique shape, formed of tiny, crunchy spheres. It’s often served as a side dish. The taste is slightly salty with a hint of the ocean, making it a refreshing and healthy option.

Nama is popular street food in Fiji, as well as in famous restaurants and hotels across the island. It’s a must-try to experience the authentic flavors of Fiji. This traditional dish shows Fijian culture and its connection to the ocean and natural resources.

Lote

Lote is one of the must-try Food of Fiji when visiting Fiji. This traditional dish is a type of dumpling that is made from cassava, a starchy root vegetable that is commonly grown in Fiji. The dough is made by pounding grated cassava and then shaping it into small balls, which are then boiled until cooked.

Lote is typically served as a side dish with other Fijian specialties such as kokoda and love. It is also popular snack food at street vendors and local markets throughout Fiji. For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, many hotels and famous restaurants in Fiji offer lote as part of their menu.

Lote is a delicious and unique dish that exemplifies Fiji’s rich cultural and culinary traditions. Its popularity among locals and tourists makes it a must-try when exploring the island nation’s food scene.

Vakasikera

Vakasikera is among the best food in Fiji. Vakasikera is a traditional Food from Fiji that is usually served during special occasions, such as weddings or festivals. It is made from grated cassava mixed with coconut milk, sugar, and water. The mixture is then wrapped in taro leaves and cooked in an earth oven, which gives the dish a smoky flavor.

The dish has a unique texture that is chewy and soft, and the coconut milk’s sweetness perfectly balances the cassava’s starchy flavor. Vakasikera is not only delicious but also has cultural significance in Fiji. It is often served in communal settings, where people gather to celebrate their culture and traditions.

Vakasikera is a must-try food in Fiji. It is an iconic dish representing the island’s culinary heritage and will leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries it. So if you’re looking for an authentic taste of Fiji, try Vakasikera.

VudiVakasoso

VudiVakasoso is a popular dish in Fiji that is made by boiling the fruit in water until it becomes soft and tender. The outer layer is then peeled off, and the inside is mashed with coconut milk, sugar, and butter until it forms a smooth and creamy consistency. Depending on your preference, It is served as a side dish or dessert, either hot or cold.

This dish is commonly found in hotels and famous Fiji restaurants serving traditional Fijian cuisine. The combination of sweet vudi, creamy coconut milk, and rich butter makes this dish unique. VudiVakasoso is a must-try cuisine of Fiji for anyone visiting Fiji. Its unique taste and creamy texture make it a favorite among locals and tourists.

What to eat in Fiji?

Lovo: This is a traditional Fijian dish cooked in an underground oven called a lovo. Meat, fish, and vegetables are wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in the lovo, giving them a unique smoky flavor.
Kokoda: Kokoda is a Fijian dish made with raw fish. It’s typically served with cassava chips or fresh bread.
Fish curry: It is a popular dish in the country. Fish curry is a must-try, made with locally caught fish and a blend of spices that gives it a delicious flavor.
Roti: Roti is a bread often served with curries, meat, or vegetables. It’s a staple in many Fiji households and can be found at local street food vendors.
Cassava: Cassava is a root vegetable used in many Fijian dishes. It is fried and served as a side dish.
Nama: Nama is a type of edible seaweed unique to Fiji. It’s typically served raw and seasoned simply with salt and lime.
Kava: kava is Fiji’s national drink and a must-try for anyone visiting the country. Made from the root of the kava plant, it’s traditionally served in a communal bowl and has a calming effect on the body.

Bottom-line

The cuisine of Fiji offers a unique blend of traditional and modern dishes that are must-try for anyone traveling to the island. From Kokoda to Lovo Food, Fiji offers a wide range of dishes.

Whether you’re looking for street food or fine dining, there’s something for every taste bud. So, if you’re planning a trip to Fiji, check out the most popular dishes of Fiji for an unforgettable food experience.

Don’t forget to check our other travel food guides to know about more such popular dishes served across the world.