4 Best Restaurants in Viti Levu, Fiji

Of the many branches of this Suva staple, this one's upstairs seating—open 11–3—is the most relaxing place to enjoy one of the chain's 17 kinds of vegetarian curries. The corner real estate offers a fantastic view of the impressive Sacred Heart Cathedral from comfortable, cushioned wicker chairs. The air-conditioning doesn't hurt, but there are also plenty of cream and milk shake flavors to cool you down. Curries are served cafeteria-style by friendly, hair-netted staff, and there's a large array of toffees downstairs as well as all-day, un-air-conditioned seating.

No frills here and none are needed: Mama's serves up tasty, good-value pizzas in a cool, comfortable setting on the main drag. Rock music from the past five decades pumps into the dimly lighted, wood-furnished interior and air-conditioning means there's no need for the giant, rusty fan threatening to turn overhead. Gourmet combos such as chicken, pineapple, and onion or smoked walu, red onions, capers, and chives are delivered to the table along with dressings by the friendly staff. Although the size diagram on the wall may appear a bit meager, rest assured: a "solo" makes for a filling lunch. There's a second location north of town and a third at Port Denarau.

Whole fish and prawns (and we do mean whole fish and prawns) are among the specialties at this picturesque and authentic Fijian restaurant. Some may consider the fish overcooked (so order a sizzling stir-fry) while others will enjoy the flavor of char-grilled walu or Naqu (catch of the day) dipped in bowls of coconut milk and lemon-chili sauce. All traditional dishes are served with local vegetables. Deck seating overlooks the water at Port Denarau.

A favorite among 9–5'ers for its spicy, cafeteria-style south Indian fare, some luck may be required to find a seat here at lunch hour. Spices from Singapore and India give the curries a more authentic flavor than much of the competition. Food is served cafeteria-style and the intense reds of the booths and yellows of the walls are in line with the hotter dishes. The patrons' sink, complete with liquid soap and paper towel dispensers, is beside a booth in the dining room, but it's all part of the fun—at least for you, who doesn't have to be back at work in 45 minutes. There's a second location in the Morris Hedstrom City Center mall.