Exploring the exquisite culinary landscape and luxury amenities of Efate, we sought to discover the very best fine dining and resort living this South Pacific gem has to offer. We desired to create a guide that would inspire discerning travelers to indulge in the island’s sophisticated blend of Melanesian charm and world-class luxury.

After days of savoring gourmet meals, enjoying premium resort amenities, and uncovering hidden culinary gems, we found more than enough evidence that Efate is a premier destination for luxury and gastronomy.

So here is why you need to experience the luxury, wine, and dine of Port Vila and Efate?

Luxury Living at Warwick Le Lagon Resort and Spa

Our stay at the Warwick Le Lagon Resort and Spa was nothing short of spectacular. Nestled on the edge of the serene Erakor Lagoon, this resort is a sanctuary of tropical luxury and refined comfort. We were captivated by the lush, sprawling grounds and the resort’s elegant, yet welcoming atmosphere.

Accommodation and Resort Amenities
The resort offers a range of luxurious accommodations, from chic rooms with private balconies to stunning lagoon-edge bungalows with direct water access and even exclusive villas featuring private plunge pools.

Our days began with the resort’s delicious and extensive buffet breakfast, which boasted a wide variety of hot and cold options, including a fresh omelette station and an array of pastries—the perfect fuel for a day of exploration.

The complimentary water sports were a highlight, allowing us to kayak, paddleboard, and snorkel in the calm, clear waters of the lagoon right from the resort’s private beach. After a day of adventure, the rejuvenating spa treatments, including massages and facials, provided the ultimate relaxation.

There was also a weekly fire show!

The resort’s facilities are impressive. We spent leisurely afternoons lounging by the beautiful, expansive swimming pools, which include a dedicated kids’ pool and a popular swim-up bar. For those seeking activity, this resort includes: a fitness centre, tennis courts, and a golf course.

Gourmet Dining at Wild Ginger Restaurant & Bar
Within the resort, the Wild Ginger Restaurant & Bar stands out as a culinary highlight. This elegant venue offers authentic Asian flavors with a modern twist, and we were particularly impressed by the teppanyaki experience. Skilled chefs prepared world-renowned Santo beef eye fillet and fresh local seafood right before our eyes on the sizzling teppanyaki grills. The theatrical cooking performance, combined with the exquisite flavors and a variety of creative cocktails and tropical margaritas, made for an unforgettable dining experience. The bar stays open late, perfect for after-dinner relaxation and lingering in a sophisticated setting.

Fine Dining Beyond the Resort: Port Vila’s Culinary Gems

Our culinary adventures extended beyond the resort into Port Vila, where we discovered several outstanding restaurants.

The Stonegrill Restaurant

A truly unique dining experience awaited us at The Stonegrill Restaurant. This Travellers’ Choice award-winning venue offers a novel concept where guests cook premium cuts of meat or seafood on incredibly hot volcanic stones at their table. It’s an extremely unique experience! We savored the amazing Santo beef, cooking it to our exact liking, and enjoyed perfect side dishes like the warm eggplant and bean herb salad served in a coconut bowl. The restaurant features stunning views of the Port Vila waterfront lights, reflecting on the water below, especially enchanting from the veranda during evening dining. The service was impeccable—friendly, attentive, and happy to explain the cooking technique.

Our meals were complimented by a selection of fine wines, and even concluded with a complimentary glass of house wine, a lovely touch that encapsulated the restaurant’s generous hospitality.

Lalala Restaurant & Bar

For a taste of the Mediterranean in the South Pacific, we visited Lalala Restaurant & Bar, a relaxed yet chic French bistro located on the beautiful Port Vila waterfront. We enjoyed stunning ocean views and a laid-back atmosphere during a sunset aperitif, followed by a dinner under the stars. The menu features classic French dishes and exceptionally fresh seafood, all served with a tropical twist. The friendly service and great drinks made every meal here feel like a special getaway.

Cocktails

Evenings at the Warwick Le Lagon are vibrant, with the resort offering nightly entertainment, including captivating fire shows and live music under the stars. We enjoyed many splendid and creative mocktails and cocktails at the resort’s beach bar while watching a mesmerizing fire show—a perfect blend of excitement and tropical relaxation.

Banana Bay Beach Club

For a delightful lunch away from the main resorts, we discovered the Banana Bay Beach Club, a bit of a hidden gem nestled on a beautiful beach. While specific details were limited in the search results, our experience aligned with its reputation as a serene spot perfect for a long, leisurely lunch with our toes in the sand, enjoying fresh, casual fare and the sound of the waves.

Why Efate is a Luxury Food Lover’s Paradise

Unforgettable Culinary Experiences
Efate offers a remarkable diversity of gourmet experiences, from interactive teppanyaki and volcanic stone grilling to elegant French waterfront dining. The quality of the local produce, especially Santo beef and fresh seafood, is exceptional and forms the foundation of many memorable meals.

Seamless Blend of Adventure and Indulgence
The island perfectly marries adventure with luxury. Days can be filled with complimentary water sports, golf, or exploring, while evenings are reserved for culinary exploration and relaxation in world-class settings. The resort’s amenities, like the spa and pools, ensure that relaxation is always within reach.

Impeccable Service and Hospitality
Throughout our stay, we were consistently impressed by the warm, welcoming, and genuine hospitality from their staff at every establishment, from the resort to the local restaurants. This high level of service made every experience feel special and personalized.

Breathtaking Settings
Whether dining over the water with views of the lagoon, enjoying a sunset from a French bistro’s terrace, or having lunch on a hidden beach, the stunning natural beauty of Efate provides a spectacular backdrop for every meal.

For those seeking a destination that offers a sophisticated blend of luxury resort living, world-class amenities, and an innovative, diverse culinary scene, Efate in Vanuatu is an undeniable paradise. Our journey through the island’s finest food and resorts left us with a profound appreciation for its unique ability to cater to the luxury traveller, and a collection of exquisite memories we will cherish forever.

So what are you waiting for? Isn’t it time you went to Vanuatu?