The Best Restaurants in Tahiti

"Seton a hill some 2,000 feet above Papeete, with impossible views of the sea and Moorea beyond, O Belvédère is the place locals take visitors for thrilling sunsets and good food. The restaurant and bar have the air of a tree house—the outdoor terraceis even built around the trunk of a tree. An inviting swimming pool on the hill below and occasional live music add to the already strong appeal. Arrange for a 5 p.m. pickup from your hotel to reach the restaurant in time fora celebratory sundowncocktail. The fondue is highly recommended."

"Romantic French at Le Lotus Part of the InterContinental Resort, Le Lotus, is set in an overwater building and has a romantic vibe with live piano music, candlelight, amazing views and top-notch French and Polynesian cuisine. Make sure to arrive before sunset to watch the sun turn Moorea golden then pink before fading into black with hundreds of twinkling lights. After dinner head to the Tiki Bar for cocktails in coconuts."

"CaféMaevaserves excellent French coffee, smoothies, pastries, and proper meals up on the second floor of Papeete's popular Le Marchéshopping complex. Come for the goodbreakfast menu or wait for lunch,whena mix of Tahitian and French dishes are offered.The standout, a very fresh poisson cru , comes in a number of different versions.The free Wi-Fi and the warm, pleasantvibe may bring you back tomorrow."

"In Taravao, at the southern edge of Tahiti Nui, this family-run French place is known for its French-style grilled meats and fish (locals will make a pilgrimage out to the countryside for it). The menuskews toold-schoolGallic with dishes like veal's head and duck breast in pineapple or honey sauce and may be off-putting to some, but a number of items, like the catch of the day, areprepared simply.Atdessert, the delicious tarte tatin is made with local papaya rather than the traditional apple. Occasional live music and dancing in the evenings can make you feel like one of the crowd."

"La Plage de Maui On Tahiti Iti, it is hard to beat eating with your toes in the sand right on the beach (there's also an inside dining room). Order one of the Polynesian dishes that include some fresh caught steamed line fish and local produce from taro to breadfruit. There is also a kid's menu."

"Creative French & Polynesian Fare by the Sea Serving up creative French and Polynesian fare, as well as some wood oven pizza choices, Blue Banana is a trendy restaurant right on the lagoon in Punaauia. Portions are small but well presented and there is an impressive wine list, including French vintages, stored in the air-conditioned cellar. The ambiance is buzzy and it is best to arrive pre-sunset and ask for a table out on the pontoon to watch the sunset over Moorea in the background."

"Le Grillardin The very hungry come to Le Grillardin, on Rue Paul Gauguin near downtown, for very well-prepared, huge portions of foie gras. Yep, in French Polynesia . Of course, there's also excellent seafood, and reasonable prices for Papeete."