Verified Facts
When visiting Papua New Guinea, be sure to try the local staples such as saksak (sago), kina (seafood), and mumu (earth oven-cooked meat), which are integral to the country's cuisine and culture.
Quick Facts
Food Culture Overview
Papua New Guinea's cuisine is a unique blend of traditional and modern flavors, with a strong emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients and cooking methods. The country's cultural diversity is reflected in its food, with different regions and tribes having their own distinct culinary traditions. The highlands region is known for its hearty meat dishes, while the coastal areas specialize in fresh seafood. The influence of Australian and Asian cuisines can also be seen in the country's modern restaurants and cafes.
Papua New Guinea's food culture is deeply rooted in its traditional practices and customs. The mumu, for example, is a traditional earth oven-cooked meal that is often served on special occasions. The saksak, or sago, is a staple food that is made from the pith of the sago palm tree and is often served with meat or vegetables. The country's cuisine is also characterized by the use of coconuts, taro, and sweet potatoes, which are abundant in the region.
The country's cuisine has also been shaped by its history of trade and colonization. The introduction of new ingredients and cooking methods has resulted in a unique fusion of flavors and dishes. For example, the Asian influence can be seen in the use of soy sauce and chilies, while the Australian influence is evident in the popularity of barbecues and roast meats.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Type | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mumu | Main Course | Earth oven-cooked meat and vegetables | Traditional villages and restaurants |
| Saksak | Side Dish | Sago made from the pith of the sago palm tree | Local markets and restaurants |
| Kina | Seafood | Fresh seafood cooked in a variety of ways | Coastal restaurants and markets |
| Taro | Side Dish | Boiled or roasted taro root | Local markets and restaurants |
| Kokoda | Appetizer | Raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice | Seafood restaurants and markets |
| Sop Saksak | Soup | Sago and vegetable soup | Local markets and restaurants |
| Pisin | Main Course | Grilled chicken cooked in a traditional earth oven | Traditional villages and restaurants |
| Kau Kau | Side Dish | Boiled or roasted sweet potatoes | Local markets and restaurants |
| Bilum | Dessert | Sweet potato and coconut cream pudding | Local markets and restaurants |
| Damper | Bread | Traditional bread made from flour and water | Local markets and restaurants |
Street Food & Snacks
- Saksak (sago) - a traditional snack made from the pith of the sago palm tree, $1-$2 USD
- Kina (seafood) - fresh seafood cooked in a variety of ways, $5-$10 USD
- Taro - boiled or roasted taro root, $1-$2 USD
- Kokoda - raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, $5-$10 USD
- Sop Saksak - sago and vegetable soup, $2-$3 USD
- Pisin - grilled chicken cooked in a traditional earth oven, $5-$10 USD
Drinks
- Coconut water - a refreshing and hydrating drink, $1-$2 USD
- Kava - a traditional drink made from the roots of the kava plant, $2-$5 USD
- Beer - a popular drink in Papua New Guinea, $5-$10 USD
- Soft drinks - such as cola and lemon-lime soda, $2-$5 USD
- Fresh juice - made from a variety of fruits such as orange, mango, and pineapple, $3-$5 USD
- Tea - a popular hot drink, $1-$2 USD
Dining Customs
- Eating with your hands is common in Papua New Guinea, especially when eating traditional dishes such as mumu and saksak
- Tipping is not mandatory, but 5-10% of the total bill is appreciated
- Reservations are not always necessary, but it's a good idea to book ahead for popular restaurants
- Dress code is casual, but it's a good idea to dress modestly when visiting traditional villages
- Trying new foods is highly encouraged, and you may be offered a variety of dishes to try
- Showing respect for the local culture and customs is essential, especially when visiting traditional villages
Where to Eat
- Traditional villages - offer a unique and authentic dining experience, with a variety of traditional dishes to try
- Local markets - offer a range of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional snacks
- Restaurants - offer a range of modern and traditional dishes, with a focus on local ingredients and cooking methods
- Food courts - offer a range of affordable and convenient dining options, with a variety of cuisines to choose from
- Cafes - offer a range of coffee, tea, and snacks, with a focus on relaxed and casual dining
Food Markets & Food Experiences
- Port Moresby Market - a bustling market that offers a range of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional snacks
- Lae Market - a large market that offers a range of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional snacks
- Goroka Market - a colorful market that offers a range of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional snacks
- Madang Market - a bustling market that offers a range of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional snacks
- The Kokoda Track - a famous trek that offers a unique and authentic food experience, with a focus on traditional dishes and cooking methods