A Taste of Italy

If you suddenly find yourself missing the aroma of fresh espresso and the crispy crust of a pizza while traveling through tropical islands, then "A Taste of Italy" is exactly where you need to be. Located in the heart of Victoria on the island of Mahe, this authentic Italian bar and restaurant offers guests a unique blend of European culinary traditions and island hospitality.

A Taste of Italy. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This establishment on Market St has long been legendary among tourists and locals alike. Its owner, an Italian named Alex, has managed to create a truly homey and cozy atmosphere here. "A Taste of Italy" is famous for its homemade pasta, freshly baked focaccia, gelato, and, of course, magnificent coffee, which many call the best in all of the Seychelles.

With a rating of 4.6 and hundreds of glowing reviews, this cafe stands out for its impeccable product quality and attention to detail. The interior is decorated in light tones, creating a pleasant contrast with the bright colors of the nearby street market, making the restaurant an ideal place for a quiet snack in the center of the capital.

To get in touch with the establishment or check the menu, you can use the official contact details. The restaurant is active on social media, where they share the latest news.

The main reason to visit "A Taste of Italy" is, undoubtedly, the gastronomic experience. Start your morning like a true Italian with a fresh croissant and a cup of ristretto or cappuccino. If you drop by at lunchtime, be sure to try the pizza or the hearty sandwiches with tuna and roasted peppers. The focaccia with Parma ham deserves a special mention — a flavor that instantly transports you to Italy.

Don't forget to save room for dessert. The local gelato (especially chocolate and hazelnut) is considered a must-try. For those stopping by later in the evening, we recommend trying the Spritz cocktail, prepared by the owner's wife — visitors often describe it as phenomenal.

Beyond the food, you can enjoy some genuine social interaction here. The owner, Alex, often greets guests personally and is happy to share useful tips for vacationing on Mahe Island. It’s a great place to take a break after shopping at the central market, watch the slow pace of city life, and feel like part of one big, friendly family.

Finding "A Taste of Italy" in Victoria is easy, as the establishment is located right in the heart of the city on the bustling Market St. If you are already walking around town, look for the famous Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market — the restaurant is just a few steps away.

For those coming from other parts of Mahe Island, it is most convenient to use public transport. The city bus station is a 5–10 minute walk from the cafe. If you prefer comfort, a taxi from Seychelles International Airport will get you here in about 30 minutes, costing around 500–700 SCR.

Travelers with a rental car can look for parking on nearby streets; however, the capital's center can be quite busy, so a stroll through the shopping quarters is a great addition to your restaurant visit.

Although the exact opening date of "A Taste of Italy" is not recorded in official chronicles, it has been an integral part of the Seychelles capital's culinary map for many years. Over time, this small cafe has grown into one of the most popular spots on Mahe Island, regularly ranking high on Tripadvisor among coffee and tea establishments.

The secret to its success lies in strict adherence to Italian traditions. The owner, an Italian named Alex, brought with him not only recipes but the very philosophy of Southern Italian hospitality. As a result, upon crossing the threshold of this cafe in tropical Victoria, guests are instantly transported to the cozy streets of Bari or Rome.

Interestingly, the restaurant has become a magnet not only for tourists missing European cuisine but also for locals. This highlights the high quality of the ingredients used and the authenticity of the flavors, which are preserved even far from the Apennine Peninsula.

You should set aside 30 to 90 minutes for a visit to this cozy spot. If your goal is simply to recharge with a cup of espresso, a classic Italian croissant, or a serving of gelato, half an hour will be quite enough.

However, if you are planning a full lunch featuring homemade pasta, freshly baked pizza, and a leisurely cocktail, we recommend allocating about an hour and a half. This will allow you to fully enjoy the atmosphere and perhaps chat with the welcoming owner.

The establishment keeps a convenient schedule, allowing you to stop by for an early breakfast or an evening cocktail on Fridays. Please note that the restaurant is closed on Sundays.

• Monday – Thursday: 07:15 – 17:00
• Friday: 07:15 – 16:00 and 18:30 – 22:30
• Saturday: 07:15 – 14:00
• Sunday: Closed

Before visiting, we recommend checking their official Facebook page to confirm the current opening hours, especially during public holidays.

After a pleasant lunch or a cup of coffee, it's worth taking some time to walk around the area. Its location in the historical and commercial center of the capital allows you to combine gastronomic experiences with a tour of the city's main symbols.

Exploring the neighboring streets will reveal Victoria from different perspectives: from monumental landmarks to charming fountains and aquariums. Below are the nearest points of interest: