Graffiti Bao Catering [19,] Las Vegas NV

Graffiti Bao

Scallion Pancakes – Special Soy, Scallion Dressing

Sticky Green Beans – Honey, Sweet Soy, Almonds, Crispy Garlic

Crispy Wings – Secret Seven Chili Rub

Lo Mein – Roast Pork, Celery, Mushrooms, Bean Sprouts, Red Pepper

Braised Short Ribs – Chili Jam, Mint, Lime, Folded Bao Buns on the side

Kung Pao Chicken Bao Buns – Natural Chicken, Bell Pepper, Chili Sauce

Prawn & Pork Spring Rolls – Plum Sauce

Szechuan Orange Chicken Sando – Spicy Slaw, Pickles, Martin’s Potato Bun

Seasoned Crinkle Fries

Chicken Egg Fried Rice – Roasted Chicken, Toasted Chili Sauce, Crispy Chicken Skin

BBQ Pork Bao Buns – Sweet Soy, Chilis, Shiitake Mushrooms

Szechuan Beef Bao Buns – Angus Beef, Szechuan Peppers, Scallions

Royale with Cheese Bao Buns – Angus Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Onions, Special Sauce

Nutella Bao Buns

Previously discussing Chef Marrone’s background here, time with Tao Group unequivocally involved in Asian Cuisine capable of satisfying both discerning diners and folks that typically gravitate to Panda Express, it was on-time Friday that Graffiti Bao’s Chef de Cuisine arrived with everything necessary, professionalism and safety never in question.

Opting for old favorites from a menu that offers far more diversity than its brevity suggests, the all-new Szechuan Orange Chicken Sando was predictably the first stop for many, and although the spicy Slaw and crispy Meat were highly praised Graffiti Bao’s Chicken Fried Rice remains a fan-favorite thanks to toasted Chiles and bits of fried Skin on top.

Onward to Green Beans slicked with Honey, the quality of Graffiti Bao’s sourcing shows well from Protein to Produce, five styles of the Restaurant’s eponymous Buns satisfying diners on this day with the BBQ Pork a favorite for many but the Pulp Fiction referencing Royale with Cheese also pretty tough not to enjoy.

Neglecting White Rice to save stomach capacity for better things, at least three whole Scallion Pancakes devoured over the course of an hour, Lo Mein won out over Basil Chow Fun or Crispy Chili Garlic Noodles this time while Marrone’s Braised Short Ribs with folded Bao saw two trays emptied in the course of an hour.

Rounding out the allotment with Crispy Wings and Spring Rolls, the latter often overlooked but amongst the best of their kind thanks to an oilless exterior housing plenty of meat and flavor, it was with plenty of Leftovers packed that staff was sated and already looking forward to the next time Graffiti Bao is ordered.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone, Graffiti Bao sets a very high standard in terms of customer service, while every Item across seventeen orders has been nicely presented, displaying “Fusion” without being compromised and appealing to a broad range of diners.

RECOMMENDED: Scallion Pancakes, Royale with Cheese Bao Buns, BBQ Pork Bao Buns, Chicken Egg Fried Rice, Braised Short Ribs, Sticky Green Beans, Prawn and Pork Spring Rolls, Szechuan Orange Chicken Sando.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Southwest location is open Monday through Sunday from 11:00am to 8:00pm. Follow @GraffitiBao for specials including those at the re-opened original in T-Mobile Arena and up in Utah.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.graffitibao.com

Graffiti Bao Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Posted in Bread Basket, Catering, Dessert, Food, Graffiti Bao, Graffiti Bao Catering, Graffiti Bao Southwest, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pancakes, Pork Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Metro Pizza Catering [14,] Las Vegas NV

Metro Pizza

Chopped Italian Salad with Ranch Dressing and Italian Dressing

Pepperoni Pizza – Mozzarella Cheese, Tomato Sauce, Pepperoni

Spring Street – Mozzarella Cheese, Tomato Sauce, Meatballs, Ricotta Cheese, Roasted Peppers

Pantheon Pizza – Garlic Cream Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese, Chicken, Spinach, Feta Cheese

Zamboni Pizza – Sausage, Old School Pepperoni, Roasted Red Peppers, Mike’s Hot Honey, Mozzarella Cheese

Old New York – Thick Sliced Mozzarella Cheese, Italian Tomato Sauce, Basil

Skyline Stuffed Pizza – Sausage, Peppers, Onions, Pepperoni, Mushrooms, Mozzarella, Black Olives

Triple Play – Thin Crust, Mozzarella, Tomato Sauce, Triple-Portion Chicago Sausage

The Gotham Pizza – Pepperoni, Mushrooms, Sausage, Green Peppers, Ground Beef, Onions

86th Street Square Pie – Mozzarella Cheese, Tomato Sauce, Romano Cheese, Olive Oil, Old School Pepperoni

Brooklyn Jr – Mozzarella Cheese, Tomato Sauce, Mushroom, Romano Cheese, Olive Oil

Serving Las Vegas for over forty years one might well assume Metro Pizza has the delivery game down to a science, and even now with more competition than ever John Arena and Sam Facchini’s Pizzeria remains irreproachable in terms of customer service and quality.

Featuring locations North, South, East and West, with another soon to come at the Convention Center, it was minutes prior to 11:30am that delivery arrived porting Food, utensils, plates and condiments, each carefully packaged such that Salad was chilled with everything else piping-hot.

Suitable for almost any budget, it was focused on old favorites that ten Pies plus Salad and Dessert were received for under $15 per guest, the all-inclusive cost yielding enough for all plus an assortment of leftovers.

Now the 21st time delivering to this office, in addition to myriad visits to locations on Decatur, Horizon Ridge or Sky Pointe, it was beginning with Salad that many once again praised Metro’s duo of housemade Dressings, though those more concerned with eating while Food was still temperature appropriate predictably went straight for familiar Pepperoni or the “Zamboni” Pizza complete with two Meats, Roasted Peppers and a generous drizzle of Mike’s Hot Honey.

Moving next to Old New York, a classic trio on voluptuous Crust, several staff took a chance on Metro’s “Spring Street” while “The Gotham” beneath Supreme styling stood no chance as crispy triangular Slices were quickly devoured.

Onward to the “Pantheon” with Chicken and Goat Cheese, followed by a “Triple Play” of Sausage on crispy rectangles, the cold-fermented 86th Street remains defiantly light despite its thickness even after traveling ten miles while “Skyline” offers a weighty wedge placing Meat, Veggies and Mozzarella between two layers of golden Crust.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone there is a reason John and Sam have been successfully serving Las Vegas for so long, a good part of it skill and doing things the right way, but also by focusing on the customer to deliver on their promises no matter how big or small the budget.

RECOMMENDED: 86th Street Square Pie, Zamboni, Spring Street, Triple Play, Chopped Salad.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Catering Menu Available here – www.metropizza.com/catering/ and contact metro_catering@embarqmail.com or 702-256-3719 to order.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.metropizza.com

Metro Pizza Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Posted in Catering, Food, Italian, Las Vegas, Metro Pizza, Metro Pizza Catering, Metro Pizza on Decatur, Nevada, Pizza, Pork Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

ShangHai Taste Catering [13,] Las Vegas NV

Shanghai Taste

House Fried Rice with Chinese Sausage

Shanghai Fried Rice Cake with Shrimp

House Fried Fat Noodles with Beef

Sheng Jian

Scallion Pancakes

Old Fashion Shanghai Style Sweet & Sour Pork Ribs

Kao Fu

Tucked inside Suite 104 of 4266 Spring Mountain Road, it was via contacting ShangHai Taste directly that catering was coordinated on Monday, GM Joe Muscaglione arriving at 11:30am-sharp with seven items portioned large enough for sharing.

Still the top destination in Shanghai Plaza at the corner of Arville Street, family recipes handed down to Chef Jimmy Li comprising a concise menu of scratch-made plates, it was with all items carefully-packed and temperature appropriate that most got started with Fried Rice, a bit of tooth welcomed amidst Sausage, Egg and Soy while Sweet & Sour Pork Ribs remain a surprising staff-favorite thanks to tender Flesh easily stripped from the Bone.

Now the tenth time delivered, though Jimmy’s years at 3 Villages, 1900 Asian Cuisine and Niu Gu will find many locals familiar with his authentic brand of cooking, fans of Soup Dumplings, or XLB, will be happy to know ShangHai Taste’s set a high standard, and whether one prefers Pork, Beef, Shrimp, Crab or even Gluten Free the textures and flavors are great, as too are the fried version entitled Sheng Jian with Sesame Seeds.

Again impressing with House Fried Fat Noodles, each strand slick and slightly chewy tossed with Steak, Stir-fried Rice Cakes traditionally known as Chao Nian Gao remain a personal favorite thanks to sticky-soft pillows with Salt and a bit of sweetness.

Only offering one Dessert, not “American” by any stretch, remaining stomach capacity saw Red Bean Dumplings skipped this time while guests with a sense of adventure enjoyed steamed Wheat Gluten Kao Fu with Mushrooms, fermented Soy and Ginger.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone, Chef Jimmy Li and Joe Muscaglione have created something truly special inside Shanghai Plaza, and those seeking Las Vegas’ best Shanghainese Cuisine will find no better than Shanghai Taste when accounting for cost, quality and customer service.

RECOMMENDED: Sheng Jian, Shanghai Fried Rice Cake, House Fried Fat Noodles, Old Fashion Shanghai Style Sweet & Sour Pork Ribs, Scallion Pancakes, Kao Fu.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Open daily from 11:00am until 9:00pm. Call 702-570-6363 or hop on Yelp! to make reservations.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.facebook.com/ShanghaiTasteLV

ShangHai Taste Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Posted in Catering, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, pancake, Pancakes, Pork, Shanghai Plaza, ShangHai Taste, ShangHai Taste Catering Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Restaurant l’O a la Bouche, Tahiti PF

Restaurant l’O a la Bouche

2020 Chateau La Verriere Sauvignon Blanc

Mai Thai

Beluga Lentils, Housemade Foie Gras Torchon

House Bread

Decadence of Foie Gras – Roasted with Figs and Banyuls, Terrine with Fig compote and Toasted Brioche, Duck Prosciutto, Macaron with Foie Parfait and Fig Gelee

Burrata Salad, Dry Cured Beef, Mushrooms, Walnut Bread

Mahi Mahi caramelized with Honey, Yuzu sauce

Ratatouille, Rice

Roasted Duck Breast with Tahitian Honey

Steamed Vegetables, Potatoes au Gratin

Pear Tart, Calvados, Salted Caramel

French Brioche, Flambéed Bananas, Dark Chocolate Sauce

Vanilla Profiteroles, Chocolate Sauce, Crème Patisserie, Almonds

Located on Passage Cordella in Papeete l’O a la Bouche has been fusing classic French technique with Polynesian influences for 25 years, its recognition as one of Tahiti’s best Restaurants surely justified during Dinner on Saturday.

Toqued by French Master Chef Jean Charles, with weekday Lunch service plus Dinner Monday through Saturday, guests are warmly greeted at a low-ceilinged space featuring a busy Bar and artistic flourishes channeling music.

Offered a la carte, though the seasonal style of Jean Charles’ cooking would lend nicely to degustation, it is while decisions are being made that an amuse of Foie Gras arrived alongside housemade Bread awash with toasted Cereal notes.

Well-priced for Wine, Sauvignon Blanc selected to accompany three courses, the lady opted for a potent Mai Tai with each arriving moments prior to a Salad with Charcuterie and the appropriately titled “Decadence of Foie Gras” featuring Torchon, Seared and Parfait preparations complete with Accoutrements.

Known for fresh Seafood, nearby Papeete Market teaming with options before sunrise, portions at l’O a la Bouche are quite generous, seared Mahi Mahi flaking gently to the fork amidst sweetness and Citrus while Duck Magret features perfectly rendered fat as a thin ribbon between rosy flesh and crisp skin.

Inclusive of sides, both Ratatouille and cheesy Potatoes outpacing simpler Rice or Vegetables, Dessert presents another set of decisions from which Profiteroles offer delicate Choux around good Ice Cream while Pain Perdue and a Pear Tart pick up added layers of flavor from Rum and Brandy, respectively.

www.loalabouchetahiti.com

Posted in Bread Basket, Bread Pudding, Dessert, Foie, Foie Gras, Food, French Polynesia, French Toast, Ice Cream, l'O a la Bouche, Macaron, Macaroon, Restaurant l'O a la Bouche, Tahiti, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bogato La Pâtisserie, Tahiti PF

Bogato La Pâtisserie

Chou Caramel – Salted Caramel Pastry Cream

Mac Pist – Pistachio Macaron, Pistachio Cream, Pomegranate Confit

Big Felins – Chocolate Financier

Wao – Mille Feuille, Vanilla Cream, Pomegranate Confit

Open from 6:30am until 6:30pm at 119 Avenue Prince Hinoi, Bogato La Pâtisserie proposes fine French Pastries combining timeless technique with imported and local Ingredients.

Located outside central Papeete, a lack of crowds welcomed amidst shiny white décor, guests are invited to select amongst several styles of Entremets, Choux or Viennoiseries served alongside Coffee, Soft Drinks or Tea.

Sourcing Valrhona Chocolate and French Butter, Vanilla from Moorea and local Organic Fruit, Bogato’s Macarons come oversized and crisp around smooth Filling while Choux escapes French Polynesian humidity in an air-conditioned setting and compares favorably to what is found in France.

Naming the Mille Feuille “Wao,” but more like WOW thanks to shattering Puff Pastry stacked around Vanilla Cream and Jam, do not miss the Financier if available as its toothsome crumb is beautifully speckled by Chocolate with a melty square at the center.

www.facebook.com/BogatoPatisserie

Posted in Bogato, Bogato La Pâtisserie, Bogato Pâtisserie, Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, Macaron, Macaroon, Papeete, Tahiti, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

WSK Marche (Papeete Market,) Tahiti PF

WSK Marche

Rotui Tropical Panache

Beef, Fries, Eggs, Cheese, Ham, BBQ Sauce, Mayo, toasted Baguette

Chocolate Mousse

With a few locations in town, the most popular adjacent Papeete Market, WSK Marche serves overstuffed Sandwiches and locally made Juices with fast and friendly service.

At first glance an overwhelming menu, though in reality simply variations of the same thing, 650xpf will land a half-meter Hachis Complet loaded with Beef, Eggs, Cheese, Ham, Sauce and a handful of freshly made Fries.

Making even the most loaded Torta or Primanti Bros sandwich look tame, a toasted Baguette standing up admirably to its glut of toppings, wash it all down with Mango Juice and airy Dark Chocolate Mousse for just 200xpf.

www.facebook.com/WSKFaaa

Posted in Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, Papeete, Pork, Tahiti, Vacation, WSK, WSK Faaa, WSK Marche, WSK Marche Papeete Market, WSK Mission Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Aloe Café, Bora Bora PF

Aloe Café

Butter Croissant

Pain au Chocolat

Pain au Raisin

Formerly known as L’Appetisserie, Aloe Café resides at the back of a small commercial center in Vaitape, the concept a lot like other “Snack” Restaurants on Bora Bora though the early opening hour of 6:30am also sees Aloe selling a small number of Pastries.

Fairly small on the inside, the selection on this particular day at 7:00am just three choices taken to go, both prices and quality are lower than that of La Patisserie Francaise by Saint James or Boulangerie Matira with the Viennoiseries all fairly dense, though the Pain Au Chocolat served warm was delicious.

www.facebook.com/pages/Aloe-Cafe

Posted in Aloe Café, Bora Bora, Breakfast, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bora Bora Yacht Club, Bora Bora PF

Bora Bora Yacht Club

Baguette, Butter

Marbled Foie Gras Terrine, Mango Chutney, Crostini

Chicken Wok, Coconut Milk, Curry, Carrots, Cabbage, Sesame Seeds

Duck Magret, Honey Sauce, Mashed Carrots

Garlic Shrimp, Green Beans, Grilled Potatoes

Bora Bora Yacht Club resides north of Vaitape, and although garnering praise on various review sites the Restaurant is seemingly an afterthought in comparison to boat services and a bar frequented by guests more concerned with drinking than eating.

A part of the island since 1972, the online menu woefully out of date and prices amongst the most precious in French Polynesia, it was towards the end of the dock that two guests were seated just as a temporary storm forced others to move underneath the awning.

Abbreviated BBYC by ownership, many expensive ships docked off shore, it was after perhaps ten minutes that flavorless Bread was served, Water another lengthy wait and oddly served simultaneous with Cocktails that cost around 1600xpf.

A nice place to watch the sunset, all al fresco and thatched roofs, appetizers included a small portion of Liver priced higher than Saint James plus an “Asian Dish” requested by the lady that ate something like Stir-Fry, but with weakly flavored Gravy and an abundance of Sesame Seeds.

Onward to Entrees, 3500xpf and 3700xpf respectively, BBYC’s Duck is nicely cooked and able to stand up to its sauce while grilled Shrimp on a skewer run about 700xpf each for quality on par with what one might find at Red Lobster.

Completely ignored by service throughout most of the meal, empty plates lingering, it was twenty-five minutes after setting fork and knife down that a trip was made to the bar in pursuit of the bill, Dessert passed up for the sake of simply calling it a night.

www.boraborayachtclub.org

Posted in Bora Bora, Bora Bora Yacht Club, Bread Basket, Foie, Foie Gras, Food, French Polynesia, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Snack Matira, Bora Bora PF

Snack Matira

Cheeseburger

Grilled Mahi Mahi Burger

French Fries

Apple Tart

Pear Tart

Chocolate Mousse

One of Bora Bora’s many “Snacks,” essentially Cafes where workers can grab a quick lunch for roughly 1000xpf, Snack Matira pairs its idyllic lagoon views with a diverse menu outpacing any of its nearby competition.

Located right on Matira Beach, hours beginning at 10:00am justifying some Omelettes and Breakfast fare, it was after perhaps ten minutes wait that cash was traded for five items, freshly-made Chocolate Mousse in a glass consumed greedily while the kitchen worked.

Opting to take everything else to the Bungalow, crisp Fries glistening in the sun, Snack Matira’s Burger is a bit small but well-prepared while a generous slice of grilled Fish fares better for just 900xpf.

The only Snack Restaurant visited with Desserts made on site, chilled but quick to warm outdoors, the decision between Apple or Pear Tart largely comes down to personal preference, though it is wise to order one of each as both feature tender Fruit on a flaky, buttery Crust.

www.facebook.com/Snack-Matira-1156519441035036

Posted in Bora Bora, Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, Restaurant Snack Matira, Snack Matira, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

La Pâtisserie Francaise by Saint James, Bora Bora PF

La Patisserie Francaise by Saint James

Paris Brest Éclair

Strawberry Tart

Pistachio Tart

Choux à la Crème Vanille

Pain Au Chocolat

Butter Croissant

Chocolate Financier

Pistachio Financier

Pistachio Raspberry Opera Cake (carried 6 miles, my bad)

Situated next to Saint James Restaurant, and open from 6:30a-5:00p Monday through Saturday, La Pâtisserie by St James is something of a hidden secret with Google Maps even unaware of its existence.

Helmed by Pastry Chef Clément Stacchetti, his work at The Restaurant four days prior already impressive, La Patisserie Francaise focuses on Entremets, Choux and Viennoiseries made with imported Ingredients including French Butter, Fruits and Vanilla from Tahiti.

Taken to go and carried several miles, a Cream Puff and Opera Cake toppled in the process but still delicious, both styles of Croissant outpace others on Bora Bora in terms of lamination while Financiers deliver all the toothsome texture and butteriness of those in Lyon or Paris.

Less thrilled by an elongated Paris Brest Éclair, the version at Boulangerie Matira shaped appropriately and better in all ways, the Tarts at St James are beyond reproach whether sweetened by Strawberry or rich with Cream and Pistachio Custard.

www.patisseriesaintjames.com/la-patisserie-francaise-by-st-james-bora-bora.html

Posted in Bora Bora, Breakfast, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, La Pâtisserie by Saint James, La Pâtisserie by St James, La Pâtisserie Francaise by Saint James, La Pâtisserie Francaise by St James, Saint James, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

La Villa Mahana, Bora Bora PF

La Villa Mahana

Cheese, Olives

Tattinger Prestige Brut Rose Champagne

House Sourdough, French Butter

Salade Royale – Spiny Lobster, Shrimp, Caviar, Local Flowers

Thon Rouge a la Vanille – Ahi Tuna, Tahitian Vanilla, Lime, Potatoes, Mixed Green Salad

Foie Gras Poele Aux Epices – Potato, Sweet Spices

Mahi Mahi Curry et Banane – Mahi Mahi, Curry, Banana, Sweet Potato Puree, Mango Sauce

Risotto de Langouste – Rock Lobster, Black Tiger Prawns, Champagne Sauce

Filet de Boeuf a la Vanille de Tahiti – Roasted Beef Tenderloin, Red Wine Vanilla Sauce, Creamy Gnocchi

Fondant Chocolat Noir Pur Caraibe – Dark Chocolate Cake, Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream

Banane Flambée – Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream, Banana, Old Rum, Mango Sorbet

Unarguably Bora Bora’s most exclusive Restaurant La Villa Mahana seats just 14 guests nightly, and thanks to advanced planning a reservation for two was secured at the only private outdoor table on Thursday evening.

Owned by Chef Damien Rinaldi-Dovio and his wife, he trained by Paul Bocuse and her in charge of business matters, it was upon exiting complimentary car service that two guests received a warm welcome including a wave and nod from Chef Damien in his open kitchen.

Formerly in charge of L’Orangerie in Los Angeles before opening shop north of Maitra Beach, “Villa of the Sun” actually home to a local artist, Rinaldi-Dovio’s menu includes both a la carte and tasting options, with nibbles of Cheese and Housemade crusty Sourdough presented as diners make decisions.

A meal worthy of Champagne, half-bottles of Tattinger well-priced for two, it was one of each Degustation requested that dinner began with gorgeous Seafood Salade Royale adjacent dayboat Ahi Tuna perfumed by Citrus and Tahitian Vanilla.

Working in tune with the season, Potatoes again seen as the base to seared Foie Gras with warm Spices, fans of Fish should pray that “Mahi Mahi Curry et Banane” is available if they visit as each bite offers unparalleled complexity in terms of sweet versus savory and levels of creaminess.

Rooted in French technique but bowing to Polynesian influence, textbook Risotto complimented by local Crustaceans, Beef Tenderloin is lean but rich and made all the more decadent by pillows of Pasta and reduced Wine Sauce with subtle hints of Vanilla.

No small portions right up to Dessert, with prices commiserate to fine-dining in any major American or European Metro, Dark Chocolate Fondant and Bananas Flambée each arrive alongside Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream that takes full advantage of the Bean’s bold aromatics.

www.villamahana.com

Posted in Bora Bora, Bread Basket, Dessert, Foie, Foie Gras, Food, French Polynesia, Gnocchi, Ice Cream, La Villa Mahana, Lobster, Tasting Menu, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Snack Otoamana, Bora Bora PF

Snack Otoamana

Cheeseburger

Tuna Burger

Nutella Banana Panini

Open 11am until 5pm Sunday through Friday Snack Otoamana largely serves as a lunch spot for locals, though fair prices and idyllic beachfront seating with shade won’t disappoint tourists tired of overpriced resort Food.

One of many “Snack” Restaurants along Bora Bora’s main road, tucked behind the stairs of a home presumably owned by the Cook, Lunch at Otoamana ranges from a 450xpf Croque Monsieur to 1800xpf for Mahi Mahi with Salad and French Fries, with “Burgers” of Beef or Fish just 800-900 with an enormous Side of FIED Potatoes just 400xpf extra.

Nicely cooked and well-portioned, whole Tuna visibly being fileted in the Kitchen, another bargain comes in the form of a half-meter Nutella Banana Panini richly-filled, pressed and grilled until crispy.

www.facebook.com/snackotoamana

Posted in Bora Bora, Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, Otoamana, Snack Otoamana, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Boulangerie Pâtisserie Matira, Bora Bora PF

Boulangerie Matira

Tartelette Banane

Mille Feuille

Vanilla Éclair

Tartelette aux Noix

Paris Brest

Almond Croissant

Pain au Raisin

Pain au Chocolat

To suggest Boulangerie Pâtisserie Matira is a local secret undersells the situation, its location down a small road near Povai Bay, no website and even an absence from Tripadvisor assuring only those who truly seek it out will experience the beauty created by Christian Blumet and his team.

About halfway between Vaitape and Matira Beach, minimal signage suggesting current hours from 6:30a to 12:30p Tuesday through Saturday and Sunday 5:00a until 10:00a, it is from a small standing area that choices are made, Viennoiseries featuring expert lamination more than capable of standing up to the island’s heat and humidity.

Impressed most by a Raisin Snail, wisps of Butter amidst a delicate crumb, Croissants fair almost equally while Pate a Choux also dazzles thanks to a brisk crackle and supple insides whether wrapped around Tahitian Vanilla Custard or Hazelnut Cream.

Offering a choice of Tartelettes, Salted Caramel and Banana sweeter than glazed Walnuts, be sure not to overlook Blumet’s Mille Feuille if it is available, because if one arrives close enough to opening the freshly-stacked specimen rivals those found in Paris or Lyon in terms of both taste and texture.

www.facebook.com/BoulangeriePatisserieMatira

Posted in Bora Bora, Boulangerie Matira, Boulangerie Pâtisserie Matira, Breakfast, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, Pâtisserie Matira, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bloody Mary’s, Bora Bora PF

Bloody Mary’s

Frozen Peach Coconut – Malibu Rum, Triple Sec, Peach Liqueur

Bread – Butter

New Zealand Beef Kabob – Rice, Ketchup

Poisson Cru – Mahi Mahi, Lime, Coconut

Parrot Fish – Rice, Green Beans, Broccoli, Carrots, Tahitian Vanilla Sauce

Ahi Tuna – Rice, Green Beans, Broccoli, Carrots, Wasabi Sauce

Coconut Pie – Whipped Cream, Housemade Coconut Ice Cream

Profiteroles – Dark Chocolate, Whipped Cream, Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream

Opened by a Polish noble in 1979, and later purchased by Los Angeles businessman Dexter Hewett, Bloody Mary’s hangs its reputation on locally caught Fish and New Zealand grass-fed Beef – plus a collection of A (and B)-list celebrities who’ve eaten there through the years.

Unquestionably Bora Bora’s most famous restaurant, thatched roof and sand floor sandwiching wooden tables and bar, it is during Dinner service that Bloody Mary’s develops a buzz thanks to a menu of daily specials where diners select their meal by sight.

1000xpf per person for round-trip transport, taxi or boat to a private dock depending on hotel, it is upon entry that daily choices are presented while reggae-replacements for real music play a bit too loudly overhead.

Soon seated on tree stumps, fair-priced Cocktails such as the easy-sipping Frozen Peach Coconut memorable for better reasons than flavorless Bread, starters range 1800-2400xpf with the Beef Kabob high-quality, as was Ceviche on this night featuring Mahi Mahi bright with Lime in a Coconut with its Milk.

All-grilled for Entrees, a focus on Fish justified, fans of Tuna will find Sashimi-grade Ahi barely kissed by flame while locally-caught Parrot Fish eats a lot like Flounder with its buttery flesh complimented by Tahitian Vanilla Sauce.

Not looking to reinvent the wheel with included Vegetables or Rice, each main around 3200xpf, Desserts are recited by memory and find the Profiteroles below average thanks to chewy Choux and a dearth of Chocolate while the Coconut Pie is wonderful in terms of both toothsome texture and subtle flavor.

www.bloodymarys.com

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Bora Bora Beach Club, Bora Bora PF

Bora Bora Beach Club

Beach Club Signature – Prosecco, Blue Curacao, Sugar Cane, Lime

Duckbill Fish – Coconut Crust, Tahitian Vanilla Sauce, French Fries

Smoked Moon Fish Tagliatelle Carbonara

Exotic Vacherin – Housemade Vanilla Ice Cream, Housemade Chocolate Ice Cream, Meringue, Nonpareils, Whipped Cream, Mango and Strawberry

Located on Matira Beach, and quite popular at Dinner, Bora Bora Beach Club offers a laid-back Lunch for those in the area beginning at 10am daily.

Built with lagoon views in mind, a menu of Sandwiches and Entrees augmented by dayboat specials from local fisherman, guests can expect friendly service to compliment prices competitive with the likes of Lucky House or Bloody Mary’s.

Shaded with sea breezes, Cocktails such as the bitter-sweet “Beach Club Signature” offered at 1600xpf, it was in bathing suits with coverups that Food arrived quickly, “Carbonara” clearly made with Cream upgraded by smoked Moonfish that is enjoyable albeit inauthentic while fried Duckbill shined thanks to Vanilla Sauce and a Crust of Coconut.

Unfortunately suffering a temporary oven issue, Fries a stand-in for other baked Sides, Dessert saw the “Exotic Vacherin” replace Profiteroles and Tart Tatin with good-quality Ice Cream beneath Meringue, Whipped Cream, Biscuit and dueling Sauces.

www.borabora-beachclub.com

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The Haere Mai Restaurant Breakfast Buffet, Bora Bora PF

The Haere Mai Restaurant Breakfast Buffet

Pancakes, Maple Syrup, Hash Browns, Sauteed Mushrooms, Sausage

Butter Croissant, Pain au Raisin, Pain au Chocolat, Ham, Salami, Mortadella, Crisp, Brie, Reblochon, Mimolette

Like many Island Resorts Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora offers on-site dining, a pair of Restaurants from which The Haere Mai is ‘finer,’ and also host to a daily Breakfast Buffet.

Located at Maitai’s center, tables available inside or out, The Haere Mai offers “an eclectic mix of French cuisine and Polynesian flavors” at a cost of 3200xpf per person, or included in the price of stay if one is willing to sign a contract at check-in.

Not much to look at, a promise of “very welcoming and romantic” hardly accurate at all, it is alongside self-serve Coffee or Juice that items are available for perusal, the entirety basic and visually unappealing.

Nothing like InterContinental Le Moana down the street, though service was equally perfunctory, diners are left to choose between boxed Cereal and store-bought Yogurt, the “hot” section strictly American or British with everything from flaccid Bacon to chewy Pancakes and admittedly good Mushrooms.

Visited by feral cats during Breakfast, a good place to offload leftover Sausage, Cheeses are good but limited while Pastries are undoubtedly pulled from plastic wrap and soggy as a result, with or without little packets of Jelly.

www.bora.hotelmaitai.com/restaurant-and-bar

Posted in Bora Bora, Bread Basket, Breakfast, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, Haere Mai, Haere Mai Restaurant, pancake, Pancakes, Pork, The Haere Mai Restaurant, The Haere Mai Restaurant Breakfast Buffet, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Noa Noa Restaurant Tuesday International Buffet, Bora Bora PF

Noa Noa Restaurant Tuesday International Buffet

Mai Tai

Crevettes Volcano, Shrimp Spring Roll, Pork Ribs, Pua’a Chou, Poisson Cru, Marinated Vegetables, Poul Fri

Uru Gratin, Moon Fish with Tahitian Vanilla Sauce, Fried Potatoes, Pain de Campagne

Vanilla Pumpkin Soup

Chocolate Chip Madeline, Chocolate Tart, Vanilla Choux, Chocolate Choux, Pistachio Financier, Fruit Tart

Crème Brulee, Chocolate Brownie, Milk Chocolate Roll Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookie, Red Fruit Entremet, Vanilla Macaron, Pistachio Macaron, Strawberry Macaron, Coconut Macaron

Almond Pie, Coconut Pie, Peach Pie, Apple Pie, Pear Pie

Crème Brulee, Coconut Pie, Mango Verrine, Chocolate Verrine

Like many Island Resorts InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora offers on-site dining, a pair of Restaurants from which Noa Noa is ‘finer,’ and also host to a Tuesday International Buffet.

Located at Le Moana’s center, tables overlooking the lagoon, Noa Noa offers “Gourmet French-inspired cuisine, international fare and local delicacies” a la Carte mostly, but on this occasion matches them in all-you-can-eat format to a Tahitian dance group performing to the sound of drums, guitars and ukuleles.

Offered at a cost of 7500xpf per person exclusive of Drinks, outdoor seating benefiting those who reserve early with a privileged view, Dinner begins at 6:00pm with showtime at 7:30, the live cooking station buy throughout with Chicken, Tuna, Moonfish and mid-grade Beef.

Featuring far better service than at Breakfast, a Mai Tai served quickly and water kept full, plate one was filled with small Appetizers and steam-tray choices, Fried Shrimp in spicy Mayo a highlight along with traditionally prepared Pork and sticky Ribs.

Impressed next by a bowl of velvety Pumpkin Soup, a wealth of Vanilla filling the palate, creamy Bread Fruit is always highly recommended as a side to lagoon-caught Fish with a choice of housemade Sauces.

Baking Breads on-site, and presumably also Dessert, Fondue was skipped in lieu of small bites, a Pistachio Financier and Fruit Tart outpacing Choux affected by humidity while Crème Brulee and a Red Fruit Entremet each featured good flavor and technique.

Offering five Pies, the only logical choice a slice of each, both Coconut and Almond are delightful in terms of taste and texture while the Mango Pudding atop buttery Streusel and Jelly is also a highlight.

Mostly done eating by showtime, though a few items warranted seconds, fans of tribal dance will undoubtedly be impressed by the troupe’s athleticism, everything from belly dances to breaking a Coconut with bare hands culminating with swirling fire.

www.lemoana.intercontinental.com/theme-nights

Posted in Bora Bora, Bread Basket, Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, Macaron, Macaroon, Madeline, Noa Noa, Noa Noa Restaurant, Noa Noa Restaurant Tuesday International Buffet, Noa Noa Tuesday International Buffet, Pork, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Snack Moi Here, Bora Bora PF

Snack Moi Here

Coconut Shake

Chicken Chow Mein, Celery, Carrots

Tuna Cheeseburger with Fries

Located on the southmost tip of Bora Bora’s unnamed circumferential road is Snack Moi Here, one of several such thatched huts selling inexpensive eats bolstered by a lagoon view.

Open daily at 9:30am, cash-only with a concise menu of Sandwiches and Entrees, roughly 1500xpf per person will secure a filling meal, though both quality and variety fall short of other “Snack” Restaurants.

Quick service, with wait times best spent in shade overlooking white sand and blue water, Moi Here’s Coconut Shake is an icy concoction without much intrinsic flavor or sweetness, while Chicken Chow Mein thankfully features plenty of Protein to make up for a dearth of Seasoning.

Popular with locals who paddle up in boats or drive up on scooters, shallow water and free parking both plentiful, the Tuna Burger stands out with good flavor despite a smaller than average portion while Fries are crisp and offered with or without the same tangy Sauce on the Sandwich.

Posted in Bora Bora, Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, Ice Cream, Moi Here, Restaurant Snack Moi Here, Snack Moi Here, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Street Eats, Bora Bora PF

Street Eats

Coconut Cake

Nutella Waffle

Chocolate Cream Tart

Pain Au Raisin

Chocolate Croissant

Sugar Brioche

Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

Although many will say dining in Bora Bora is expensive it certainly needn’t be, between various Snack, Roulotte and Food Trucks plus weekday roadside stands.

Focused here on the latter, though certainly less abundant than Tahiti, two popular spots for locals to grab Breakfast are from a white van in front of Vaitape’s Protestant Church and North of the bend near Pofai Bay.

Predictably cash only, both locations charging roughly 2000xpf per item, everything from the van is made daily by a man with a heavy French accent, his Croissant a bit affected by humidity while the Raisin Curl performed better, though the real standouts were glazed Brioche and a weighty Danish with Cream Cheese.

Onward to the stand, a young woman who doesn’t speak English or have bags setting up at 6:00am Monday through Friday, it is here that workers line up each day for Sandwiches and Baguette, though the real stars are crumbly Coconut Cake and a soft Waffle folded around Nutella.

Posted in Bora Bora, Bread Basket, Breakfast, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, French Polynesia, Vacation, Waffle, Waffles Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Saint James Restaurant, Bora Bora PF

Saint James Restaurant

The Saint James Special – St James White & Dark Rum, Lime, Vanilla, Pineapple Juice, Mango Juice

Porcini Mushroom Bisque
Baguette, Butter

Foie Gras Terrine – Mango Chutney, Balsamic, Salt Selection, Gingerbread

The Grand Special – Peppercorn Tenderloin flambéed at your table with Cognac, Red Port Reduction based Butter Sauce, Potato Pave, Salad

Duck Magret – Duck Breast, Mashed Purple Potatoes, Mulled Wine Sauce

Apple Tart Tatin – Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream

Tahitian Vanilla Creme Brulee

Considered by many the best Restaurant on Bora Bora’s main island, St. James is hidden in the back of a Vaitape shopping center, and for those who decide to visit the Food, view and service are unparalleled.

Rooted in French technique with reliance on local ingredients, an accented Maître D’ from France greeting guests, checking in regularly and even escorting them to a private shuttle, it is with a glorious sunset that dinner began with Fish soon jumping and even a Black Tip Shark cruising by around 7:30pm.

Open at Lunch and Dinner, their Patisserie next door something of a hidden secret in the morning, those seeking Wine will find a substantial cellar, while Cocktails are plentiful including a Mai Tai reminiscent “Saint James Special.”

More French than many of the spots one will find in Paris, housemade Baguettes and Mushroom Bisque shooters offered complimentary, Saint James Foie Gras is flawlessly prepared and complimented by Chutney made from local Mangoes plus spiced Brioche Fruit Bread.

Smart to upsell “The Grand Special,” a thick Tenderloin whose complex Sauce is made tableside, fans of Duck will find the Breast here cooked low and slow with fat perfectly rendered alongside local Sweet Potatoes more than happy to sop up a Sauce of sweet Wine.

A good value for what is offered, informal but nonetheless special, Dessert predictably offers Crème Brulee featuring Tahitian Vanilla, but if the daily special is Saint James’ Apple Tart Tatin it is an absolute “must order” with exquisite flavor and diverse textures as well as temperatures.

www.saintjamesborabora.com

Posted in Bora Bora, Bread Basket, Dessert, Foie, Foie Gras, Food, French Polynesia, Ice Cream, Saint James, Saint James Restaurant, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,