The 7 Best Restaurants & Places To Eat In Funafuti – Tuvalu – Travel Guide

Before you start exploring our guide, keep in mind that Tuvalu is a very remote place, which means the food quality might not be what you’re used to in your country. Don’t expect luxury or elaborate dishes. Local shops sell only basic food ingredients, and more ‘sophisticated’ products can be quite expensive, as almost all items are imported. However, you will still find plenty of places to eat, from breakfast to dinner, as well as options for special events. This guide is made for Fongafale, the main island of Funafuti.
 
Make sure you also check our guide about the best beaches in Tuvalu and Funafuti.

 
 
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1 – Sue’s Kitchen

If you’re in the mood for a lively spot, the Sue’s Kitchen is worth a visit. It’s a local favorite where you can enjoy hearty meals, from burgers to seafood platters. The restaurant informal setting and friendly staff make it a great place to eat international food.

2 – Blue Ocean Restaurant

Blue Ocean Restaurant is a great spot for casual dining. Located in Funafuti, it offers a mix of Asian food and local ingredients. Try their popular dishes like fried tuna and tropical fruit salads. As you can see below, all the dishes are priced the same (AUD $10).

3 – Nangs

Nangs restaurant is very similar to the Blue Ocean Restaurant, also beloging to a Chinese family. Expect Asian-based dishes, fresh fish, pork, beef or chicken based dishes with either rice or noodles. Prices range between AUD $10 and AUD $15.

4 – Matagigali Bar – Tuvalu’s Only Nightclub

Matagigali is a popular local bar where you can enjoy a the real new Tuvaluan atmosphere with a mix of locals and visitors. The bar offers a selection of drinks, including local beers and spirits, and it’s a great place to relax after a day of exploring. While it might not be a full-service restaurant, it’s a good spot to dance and enjoy some refreshments.

5 – Dillian Restaurant & Bar

For a genuine taste of Tuvalu, head to Blue Ocean Restaurant in Funafuti. Here, you’ll enjoy traditional dishes like fresh seafood, including grilled fish and coconut crab. The atmosphere is cozy, and the food is prepared with local ingredients, giving you an authentic culinary experience (buffey-style).

6 – Fripay BBQ

For a special evening out, Fripay BBQ offers a great lunch (or sometimes dining) experience with its range of grilled dishes and seafood. The location of this “restaurant” is can be found taking the direction of the north of Vaiaku in Fungafale, the grill place provides beautiful sunset views, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration. Prices start as low as AUD $5! Note that there is no seating area, you’ll have to eat directly on the beach 😊.

7 – Hotels & Accomodations

Last but not least, you can also eat directly at some hotels (especially during Sundays as all shops & bars are closed). You can also have breakfasts at those places, which include Esfam Lodge, Funafuti Lagoon Hotel or even Filamona Lodge. You can find the list of the accomodations and their infos at the official Tuvalu’s tourism website.

A little recap about our guide. The best restaurants and places to eat in Funafuti, Tuvalu are:

1 – Sue’s Kitchen
2 – Blue Ocean Restaurant
3 – Nangs
4 – Matagigali Bar
5 – Dillian Restaurant & Bar
6 – Fripay BBQ
7 – Tuvalu’s Hotels & Accomodations

This guide was updated on August 2024