Traveling to Madagascar also means being welcomed by a culinary melting pot! Besides the Malagasy culinary delights, the island offers many surprises through its diverse culinary influences from around the world.
Malagasy cuisine has its own unique charm, but Madagascar is also a crossroads of flavors from elsewhere. In the island’s main cities, restaurants will allow you to taste dishes that will evoke memories or take you even further on your culinary journey.
French cuisine: A legacy of the colonial period, French gastronomy is omnipresent. Meat lovers will be well-served here, with zebu being a savory discovery with tender cuts such as the filet. For those with a sweet tooth, restaurants offer duck breast, confit, tournedos Rossini, and even Malagasy foie gras. To complement these delights, a local wine pairs perfectly with the meal. And even frog legs are on the menu!
Bread and pastries: For those who can’t go without their French-style breakfast, bread, croissants, and brioches are available in many establishments, though their quality may vary depending on freshness.
Réunion and Italian influences: Madagascar shares cultural proximity with its Réunion neighbors, who bring their delicious curries, rougails, and pickled vegetables (achards). These dishes, often made with blanched and marinated vegetables, are also found in their Malagasy version, sometimes with mango.
For Italian food lovers, Madagascar’s large Italian community has spread its pizzerias and pasta restaurants across the island. Cities like Tuléar and Nosy Be even host renowned Italian chefs, offering true culinary treasures.
Chinese and Indian cuisine: Chinese cuisine also holds a solid place in Madagascar’s food culture. From the capital to the east coast, you can enjoy crispy spring rolls, mi sao, or even Peking duck. In Majunga, Indian cuisine awaits you with dishes like biryani and curries, specialties of the Karanes, Indo-Pakistani communities settled on the island.
African and American cuisine: Finally, Madagascar’s culinary diversity would not be complete without mentioning African and American flavors. Comorian specialties, like matsato (a fish and spice dish), found on the coasts or in areas with a large Comorian population, will transport you. Meanwhile, American fast food, present in the big cities, offers a quick yet familiar option for hamburger and fries lovers.
Now, we tell you: If you want to maintain your culinary habits in Madagascar and enjoy familiar flavors, Madagascar has plenty to offer. Many specialties are available on the menu. You won’t be disappointed. Explore this rich culinary diversity by tasting dishes from around the world, all while enjoying Malagasy hospitality.
