What Food To Try in Suva and Food Prices

Sour Fish Soup - Taumanu (tangy delight) - A flavorful broth enriched with local fish, tomatoes, and a variety of herbs, making for a comforting breakfast option. Locals often enjoy this hearty dish early in the morning, particularly after a long night, as it’s believed to revive the senses.

Fried Cassava - Vudi Vudi (crispy snack) - Slices of cassava, deep-fried to golden perfection, served hot with a sprinkle of salt. This popular street food is usually found in bustling markets, and I have watched locals eat it on the go while chatting with friends.

Coconut Curry Lamb - Vindi Vaka (rich and aromatic) - Tender lamb simmered in a fragrant coconut curry sauce, served alongside steamed rice. A common choice for family dinners, the rich flavors are best appreciated during a leisurely evening meal with loved ones.

Fish Lolo - Ika Lolo (creamy essence) - Fresh fish cooked in a thick, coconut milk sauce, often accompanied by a side of dalo (taro). Enjoyed at family gatherings, it’s the kind of dish where everyone relishes sharing from a communal bowl.

Roti and Curry - Roti ni Gata (perfect combination) - Flaky roti served with a spicy chicken or vegetable curry, creating a beautiful blend of textures and flavors. Many locals consider it a go-to comfort meal, especially after a busy day.

Seasonal Fruit Salad - Salata Vakasama (fresh mix) - A vibrant mix of the freshest seasonal fruits like pawpaw, banana, and pineapple, often drizzled with coconut cream. Popular during Fiji’s hotter months, it’s a refreshing lunch option perfect for cooling down.

Sapasui - Fiji Noodle Salad (satisfying stir-fry) - A stir-fried noodle dish loaded with vegetables and your choice of meat, seasoned just right. Often prepared for family gatherings, the blend of flavors perfectly embodies local culinary creativity and comfort.

Tea - Sulu (herbal infusion) - A refreshing blend of local herbs and leaves, typically brewed with hot water and served steaming. Generally enjoyed throughout the day, especially during gatherings or after meals; Sulu is often a favorite for its calming effect.

Fiji Bitter - Fiji Beer (local brew) - A crisp lager made from locally sourced ingredients, with a mild bitterness balanced by refreshing notes. Best enjoyed at sunset with friends at the beach or during special events; locals often share a round during celebrations.

Iced Coffee - Iced Kofi (cold blend) - Strong local coffee mixed with ice and a splash of sweetened condensed milk, creating a creamy and cool treat. Perfect for hot afternoons, it's often enjoyed by workers taking a break to recharge their spirits; be careful, too much ice can dilute the flavor!

Pani Popo - Pani Popo (coconut bread rolls) - Soft, fluffy bread rolls soaked in a sweet coconut milk sauce, warm and divine. Typically served at family gatherings and special occasions, they disappear quickly, so it's best to arrive early if you're invited; they're a hit during church functions, often paired with savory dishes.

Frozen Yogurt - Dalo Froyo (tropical frozen treat) - Creamy, tangy yogurt blended with tropical fruits like passionfruit and guava, then frozen for a delightful cool-down. This treat hits the spot in the midday heat, with locals often popping by stalls to grab a cup; don't miss the chance to sprinkle it with roasted coconut flakes!