Reunion Island’s gastronomy is a true sensory journey, a harmonious blend of African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences. In the restaurants of Exsel, this culinary richness comes to life through authentic dishes that tell the story of the vibrant island. From the spicy flavors of cari to the sweet delights of sweet potato cake, each bite reveals the Creole soul of Reunion.

The chefs at Exsel establishments pay special attention to the selection of their fish, prioritizing local fishermen to ensure optimal quality. This approach aligns with a philosophy of promoting Reunion’s local terroir products.

The Fundamentals of Reunion Creole Cuisine

Cari: The Essential Pillar of Local Gastronomy

The cari is undeniably the iconic dish of Reunion. This slow-cooked preparation, inherited from Indian traditions and adapted to local ingredients, forms the foundation of many Reunion meals. In Exsel restaurants, cari takes on various forms, each offering its own unique flavor profile.

The chicken cari remains the most popular among visitors discovering Creole cuisine. Its preparation requires slow cooking to fully release the aromas of the spices. Turmeric lends its characteristic golden hue, while ginger, garlic, and onions create an unparalleled aromatic base.

The Art of Rougail: From Condiment to Main Dish

The rougail perfectly illustrates the adaptability of Creole cuisine. Originally a simple condiment made from tomatoes, chilies, and onions, it has evolved into a complete dish. The rougail saucisse, a must-try specialty in Exsel restaurants, combines local smoked sausage with this spicy preparation, striking a perfect balance between mild and fiery flavors.

This dish traditionally accompanies white rice, the staple of Reunion’s diet. The rice-rougail combination forms an inseparable duo that has nourished and comforted generations.

Vegetable Achards: A Burst of Flavors

The achards are a unique Reunion specialty, a blend of vegetables marinated in a seasoning of oil, turmeric, and chilies. These vibrant preparations perfectly complement main dishes, adding freshness and crunch to the meal.

Each Exsel restaurant offers its own version of achards, using seasonal vegetables such as chayote, green beans, cauliflower, or carrots. This diversity reflects the island’s agricultural richness and the creativity of Creole chefs.

Marine Specialties: Treasures of the Indian Ocean

Fish Cari: Freshness from the Indian Ocean

The Indian Ocean offers an exceptional variety of fish that enrich the menus of Exsel restaurants. The fish cari highlights the catch of the day, often tuna, dorado, or captain fish. The freshness of the fish pairs beautifully with Creole spices, creating a dish that is both delicate and flavorful.

Vegetarian Delights: The Richness of Reunion’s Terroir

Massalé: Spices and Indian Traditions

The massalé is a testament to the Indian heritage in Reunion’s gastronomy. This carefully balanced spice blend infuses many vegetarian dishes offered in Exsel restaurants. Preparing massalé requires a special expertise, passed down through generations.

Essential Traditional Accompaniments

Rice: The Essential Dietary Staple

In Reunion’s Creole culture, rice holds a central place in every meal. Exsel restaurants offer classic white rice.

The quality of the rice significantly influences the overall dining experience. Exsel chefs meticulously select their varieties, favoring long grains that perfectly absorb the flavors of the accompaniments.

Grains: Essential Legumes

The grains—a Creole term for legumes—harmoniously complement main dishes. Red, white, or black beans provide protein and substance to meals. Their preparation, often long and meticulous, allows the flavors to fully develop.

In Exsel establishments, grains traditionally accompany caris and rougails, creating nutritionally balanced and flavorful combinations.

Culinary Discoveries in Exsel Restaurants

Restaurant Le Kaloupilé: Saint-Denis

Located in the Exsel Créolia hotel, Le Kaloupilé offers a refined menu showcasing Creole specialties. This business-oriented restaurant, ideally situated near Roland Garros Airport, welcomes an international clientele eager to discover authentic Reunion cuisine.

The menu at Le Kaloupilé evolves with the seasons and fresh arrivals, ensuring consistent freshness and quality. The chefs reinterpret Creole classics with a contemporary approach, respecting traditions while adding their personal creativity.

Culinary Diversity in Exsel Establishments

Each Exsel hotel develops its own culinary identity while adhering to Creole fundamentals. This diversity allows visitors to explore different facets of Reunion’s gastronomy depending on their place of stay.

The establishments on the west coast, such as the Alamanda in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains or the Ermitage near the lagoon, feature menus emphasizing seafood. The Victoria, overlooking the Indian Ocean in the wild south, focuses on local terroir products.

Creole Sweet Traditions

Authentic Desserts: Island Delicacies

Reunion Creole cuisine is not limited to savory dishes. Traditional desserts hold an important place in meals, offering a sweet conclusion to the spicy flavors that precede them.

The sweet potato cake, an iconic preparation, combines the natural sweetness of this tuber with spices like Reunion’s bourbon vanilla. Its soft texture and delicate aromas make it a dessert loved by all.

Tropical Fruits: The Island’s Natural Treasure

Tropical fruits provide the most natural and refreshing dessert after a Creole meal. Mangoes, lychees, Victoria pineapples, or passion fruits offer an explosion of sweet and tangy flavors.

Exsel restaurants prioritize locally grown fruits, often picked at peak ripeness. This approach ensures optimal flavors while supporting Reunion’s agriculture.

Traditional Beverages and Accompaniments

Rhums and Punchs: Traditional Spirits

The tasting of Creole dishes is often accompanied by local rhums or flavored punchs. These spirits, produced on the island, harmoniously complement the spicy flavors of the culinary preparations.

Coconut punch, guava punch, or the famous fruit-infused arrangé add a festive dimension to meals. Their artisanal preparation follows recipes passed down through generations.

Local Tisanes and Infusions

To accompany meals or aid digestion, Creole tisanes offer a natural alternative. Lemongrass, ayapana, or rose geranium grow naturally on the island and are known for their beneficial properties.

These infusions, served hot or iced according to preference, extend the Creole culinary experience with their authentic aromas and natural benefits.

Seasonality and Local Products

Respecting Tropical Seasons

Reunion Creole cuisine evolves with the rhythm of tropical seasons. Exsel restaurants adapt their menus based on the availability of local products, ensuring optimal freshness and environmental respect.

The season for lychees, mangoes, or guavas directly influences the culinary offerings. This seasonal approach enriches the gastronomic experience by creating a true connection with Reunion’s terroir.

Supporting Local Producers

Exsel establishments develop privileged partnerships with local producers, promoting short supply chains and ingredient quality. This approach supports the local economy while ensuring the authenticity of culinary preparations.

Vegetables, fruits, spices, and condiments are primarily sourced from the island, creating a cuisine deeply rooted in its territory of origin.

A Complete Culinary Experience in Exsel Hotels

Diverse Ambiances Across Establishments

Each Exsel restaurant offers a unique ambiance tailored to its clientele and environment. Business-oriented establishments provide a professional and refined setting, while leisure hotels create a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

This variety of ambiances allows everyone to find the perfect setting to discover Creole specialties, whether for a business meal or a family dinner.

Services Tailored to Various Occasions

Exsel restaurants adapt to the specific needs of their clientele. Corporate seminars, CSE events, or group meals benefit from personalized services and tailored menus.

This flexibility allows the Creole gastronomy to shine in various contexts, contributing to its prominence among a diverse audience.

Come discover these authentic flavors during your next stay in Reunion. Reserve your table now at one of Exsel’s restaurants and let yourself be transported. Whether you’re staying in Saint-Denis, Saint-Gilles, or Saint-Pierre, Creole specialties await you in the heart of the Indian Ocean.