3 Best Restaurants in Mahajanga, Madagascar

Large French pastries are the main attraction, and a chocolate-filled croissant is certainly a fine accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea. The hot cocoa here is rich enough to be a meal in itself. The range of sweets includes cake and ice cream. Real life is right outside the door—be wary of panhandlers in the street.

This large patio dining room known for its seafood is right on the beach, and the colorful blue or orange runners on white tablecloths add to the cheery atmosphere. Artistic touches distinguish the plating of classic seafood dishes—stuffed whole lobster, crab cakes, and seafood terrine are favorites. Ginger sauce might zest grouper filets and black sesame sometimes plays on swordfish. The restaurant is part of a hotel complex of rooms and bungalows that get high marks from guests.

Many a romance has been kindled here, under the shade of umbrellas at tables by the pool and tropical plants swaying in the breeze. Candlelit evenings create an even more dreamy setting. The kitchen is grounded in French technique, which is applied most notably to seafood. Tender little slipper lobsters in vanilla sauce and fresh oysters soften the heart. Perhaps most decadent is foie gras on gingerbread with caramelized pear and onion jam. At the end of the night, it may be the chef who receives the most proposals.