Niue may only have a small number of eateries on the island, but it doesn’t lack in diversity when it comes to cuisine. From Polynesian cuisine to more traditional European meals, Niue’s restaurants and cafes serve a splendid side of island friendliness with each meal. Be sure to sample Niue’s most traditional fare – the coconut crab.
1. Matavai Resort
Hotel
Matavai Resort is Niue’s only resort, with its oceanview restaurant positioned perfectly to watch the sunset into the horizon or see the dolphins spinning out of the water just metres offshore. The resort hosts island-style buffets and entertainment nights and the chance to sample Niue’s local delicacy – uga – which is the coconut crab. The resort’s uga night allows guests to see what the uga crab looks like when still alive and even get the chance to try holding it. But you’ll need strong fingers – these crabs weigh quite a bit and have claws strong enough to open a coconut.
2. Kaiika Restaurant
Restaurant, Japanese, Sushi
Kaiika Restuarant is Niue’s Japanese restaurant and the place to be for genuine Japanese sushi. One of the creators, Avi Rubin, is also the owner of Niue’s Monuina Fishing Company so had access to fresh, locally-sourced fish. Together with Taiichi Fox, their vision was to create a restaurant using local seafood with an authentic Japanese feel. The sashimi is some of the best you’ll find in the Pacific Islands.
3. Washaway Cafe
Cafe, Bar, Vegetarian, Pub Grub
The Washaway Cafe on Avatele Beach is one of the most unique cafes you’ll come across as it operates on an honesty system – perhaps the last honesty bar in the world. It’s only open on Sundays and offers the best burgers on the island. The system is simple. Go up to the bar, write down your food and drinks order, tell the chef what you’re having, help yourself to the drinks in the bar and leave the money in the till. Niue is probably the only place in the world where this can actually work without people taking advantage of the system.
4. Falala-Fa
Restaurant, Fish and Chip Shop, Seafood, Oceanian
Some would argue Falala-Fa offers the best seafood on Niue and judging by the reviews, they can’t be too far off the mark. It’s easily one of the best restaurants on the island with generous servings, especially their fish and chips. The chefs love using fresh produce and choose locally sourced products in their meals. Falala-Fa is also a fully licensed bar.
5. Crazy Uga Cafe
Cafe, Diner, Icelandic
In many Pacific Islands, finding a good coffee can take some time. It’s no different in Niue and it’s at the Crazy Uga Cafe in Alofi where you can purchase a decent espresso. In fact, it has the only espresso machine in the country. Breakfast is always outstanding, especially with the view out to the ocean. On Wednesday nights, it’s open for burgers for dinner.
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