For anyone venturing to Vanuatu, L’Houstalet is more than just a restaurant—it’s an institution. Nestled in the heart of Port Vila, this legendary eatery has been delighting diners with its unique blend of French sophistication and island flair since the 1970s.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a memorable meal, L’Houstalet delivers an experience that’s hard to beat wherever you are in the world….
A Slice of France in the Pacific
Vanuatu, with its postcard-perfect beaches and lush landscapes, might seem an unlikely place to find French culinary traditions, but its colonial history says otherwise. Once a joint British-French condominium, the archipelago retains a distinctly French influence. From the moment you touch down, the signs are everywhere—literally. French bakeries tempt you with golden croissants, cafés serve strong espressos, and the wine lists rival those in Bordeaux.
While the British left their mark too, it’s the French touch that lingers strongest in Vanuatu’s culinary scene. Picture fresh seafood paired with crusty baguettes, creamy sauces, and a touch of island spice. This unique fusion of French elegance and tropical ingredients is what makes dining in Vanuatu a standout experience—and L’Houstalet is at the heart of it all.
L’Houstalet: Timeless Charm and Bold Flavors
Walking into L’Houstalet feels like stepping back in time. The décor is simple, almost retro, but it’s the menu that steals the show. This isn’t a place trying to impress with gimmicks or Instagram-worthy plating—it’s about hearty, flavorful dishes that speak for themselves.
The menu combines French classics with local twists, offering something for every palate. Escargot? Check. Steak? Absolutely. But the pièce de résistance is the flying fox stew. Yes, you read that right—bat stew. It’s adventurous, it’s bold, and it’s everything you’d expect from a restaurant that’s not afraid to push boundaries.
The Food at L’Houstalet: A Culinary Adventure
Naturally, I had to go for the house specialties at L’Houstalet. The escargot came first, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. The snails are locally sourced, tender, and swimming in a garlicky, buttery sauce that demands to be mopped up with bread. They even provide shell holders to help you extract every last morsel—pure perfection.
Then came the flying fox. The French owner warned me it was “gamey,” but I wasn’t deterred. Having tried it before in Bougainville, I knew what I was in for. Here, the flying fox is served in a rich, wine-based sauce alongside vegetables, rice, and cheesy potatoes. The meat is intense, slightly pungent, and undeniably unique. Sure, it’s a bit bony, but the flavor more than makes up for the effort.
Others in my group opted for steak and fresh prawns, both of which received rave reviews. By the end of the meal, the consensus was clear: L’Houstalet wasn’t just the best restaurant in Port Vila—it was the culinary highlight of our multi-country Least Visited Countries Tour.
Why L’Houstalet is Worth the Hype
L’Houstalet isn’t just a place to eat—it’s an experience, a conversation starter, and a testament to the incredible fusion of cultures that defines Vanuatu. For me, it’s easily one of the best restaurants I’ve visited anywhere in the world.
If you find yourself in Port Vila, don’t miss the chance to dine at L’Houstalet. Whether you’re savoring escargot, braving the flying fox, or just enjoying a glass of wine with friends, L’Houstalet is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to taste the heart and soul of Vanuatu.
L’Houstalet Address
L’Houstalet Restaurant
BP 74, Port Vila, Vanuatu
📞 Phone: +678 22303
Click the links for our Vanuatu Tours, as well as our Least Visited Countries Tour.
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