In recent years, Nauru’s biggest food-related story is the island’s status as the nation with the highest obesity rate on Earth. Fried, sugary and processed foods imported from Australia have replaced coconuts, seafood and root vegetables as the staples of most diets. Chinese, however, is the most common cuisine served at the handful of restaurants where tipping is not necessary.
Bars and Pubbing in Nauru
Although visitors can easily find a wide variety of imported alcohol from around the world, Nauru's only two bars are located in the Menen Hotel (Anibare Bay, Nauru), the biggest hotel in this tiny country. The Reef Bar (Anibare Bay, Nauru) is found downstairs in the lobby, while the upstairs K-Bar (Anibare Bay, Nauru) boasts a beautiful Pacific Ocean view.
Friday, the day most Nauruans are paid, is by far the busiest night at the Reef Bar, which serves spirits from all over and beers primarily from Australia. As long as men wear collared shirts and no one is wearing flip-flops, you will be warmly welcomed by both local and expat regulars. The bar features satellite television, pool tables and a steady stream of music even during quiet weekday nights.
Dining and Cuisine in Nauru
Many of Nauru’s restaurants are found within the island’s two main hotels, Menen Hotel (Anibare Bay, Nauru) and the smaller Od-n Aiwo Hotel (P. O. Box 299, Aiwo District). In the former, the Oriental Restaurant (Anibare Bay, Nauru) serves dishes from Thailand and India as well as China, while the Anibare Restaurant (Anibare Bay, Nauru) specializes in seafood and international cuisine.
One of Nauru’s most upscale dining spots is Antina’s (Yaren, Nauru), one of only three on the island where alcohol is served. Diners can also drink alcohol with their Chinese cuisine at Reynaldo’s (next to Nauru International Airport, Nauru). This two-floor restaurant’s friendly staff and close proximity to the airport make it an ideal place to eat before boarding or after leaving a flight.
Fried noodles and fish are the recommended dishes at the lower-budget Kasuo (next to the Od-N-Aiwo Hotel, Nauru). However, diners seeking an alternative to Nauru’s seemingly endless stream of Chinese restaurants may want to try the Indian offerings at Funky Salsa (Pokhara 6, Lakeside, Nauru), where visitors can wash down their kofta, garlic naan or fish curry with lemon ginger tea.