Red Roof Church at Cap Malheureux
One of our favourite days was spent at this stunning little church just 10 minutes from Grand Baie, famous for its beautiful red roof and beach setting. Whilst its great to visit this most photographed church in Mauritius, we discovered there is so much more making it a truly memorable family day out. Kids can spend hours paddling through the rock pools hunting for crabs and little fish, there are locals selling beautiful handmade jewellery and a there is little tree swing to enjoy. But my favourite part was this rustic fish shack BBQ set up on the beach by some locals called Lazak Sandrine, where they catch and prepare the fish right on the beach in front of you. Pop your order in and by the time you have finished exploring and enjoying your surroundings you have the most amazing seafood dish with some yummy wine. Chairs and tables are set up in the shade under a huge Banyan Tree where the kids loved climbing in and swinging off the vines whilst making new friends. We enjoy a whole fresh Snapper, king prawns, garlic bread & fries for all four of us oh and a bottle of wine for only £75. To watch them de scale the fish, grill it and serve it all up as fresh as can be was pretty cool, we made some very special memories here. This unexpected stop turned into one of our most cherished family memories. It’s not a traditional sunbathing beach, but it’s perfect for a relaxed day spent exploring, eating, and soaking up local vibes.
Local Restaurants we loved
Mauritius offers a vibrant food scene, blending flavours from Indian, Chinese, African, and European cuisines. Here are some of the best spots we experienced or have been recommended. Most of them are located in and around Grand Baie but I have highlighted some others that are worth visiting if you are in the area – they go even better with a nice Ti’ Punch!
Grand Baie and North
- Le Poivrier – Tropical Gardens, located next to LUX* Grand Baie. Dine outside in a garden setting surrounded by lush green plants. They have a delicious extensive French and Italian inspired menu along with refreshing cocktails and wines. Highly recommend this.
- Bloom – a trendy café style restaurant which is great for brunch and has a little play area for children.
- The Beach House – a lovely beach front setting with an extensive menu and more laid back vibes and great for Sunday lunch. Also great for families.
- N’Joy – A trendy bar with local live music at the weekends serving cocktails and tapas. Next to La Cuvette beach,
- Banana Beach Club – Tropical local vibes, live music and tasty food.
- The Cloud Rooftop Lounge Bar – Climb past Banyan Tree vines for cocktails and tapas style dining overlooking the beach.
- The Red Church – BBQ on the beach for lunch – closed Sundays – one of the best meals we had.
- Domaine De Labourdonnais – An 1800s chateau that combines history, gastronomy, and nature.
- Beach food vendors – I recommend getting a Roti, freshly prepared and cooked and so cheap – a great way to experience local dishes.
- Port Louis – Taste Buddies street food tour
- Rougaille Creole in Grand Baie
Chamarel and Inland
- Chamarel Restaurant – this is in the most spectacular location, pop in for just a drink or dine off their a la carte menu – make sure you stop for a photo at their view point
- Escale Creole – A cosy, family-run restaurant offering home-cooked Mauritian dishes.
- Rhumerie de Chamarel Distillery – when in Mauritius you have to visit a Rum distillery with a behind the scenes tour of their iconic rum production.
South & East Coast
- Ferney Falaise Rouge restaurant – Overlooking Grand Port Bay with a mountainous background with a farm to table concept
- Green Island Restaurant – Trou d’Eau Douce – a nice local restaurant popular for hotel guests
- Karay Mario – Known for its authentic Mauritian cuisine on the south east coast
- Wapalapam – Le Morne – a fresh and tasty restaurant not far from LUX* Le Morne and JW Marriott.
- Bus Snack in Bel Ombre – a family run hidden gem famous for its take on Mauritian Noodles
Must try local dishes
Mauritius food is influenced by many cultures including Indian, Chinese, African and European and the best way to experience this is from a food truck. These are a must when in Mauritius and you can find these from many beaches. Here are some dishes to look out for
- Dholl Puri – A flat bread made from yellow split peas rolled up with a filling of your choice but tends to be Chicken or vegetarian with chutney, pickles and spices, often served with curry (like a wrap but very tasty).
- Bol Renversé – an upside down rice bowl. A layered dish with rice, stir fry vegetables, meat, and a fried egg on top.
- Boulettes (Dumplings) – Steamed dumplings served in broth, filled with seafood, meat, or vegetables.
- Fried rice and noodles
- Biryani – a rice dish with spices influenced by Indian cuisine
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