Vai'ete Roulottes
Papeete's vibrant waterfront food truck hub, offering diverse global and local flavors under the stars.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Food trucks and lively atmosphere
Vai'ete Roulottes
Best Time
Food trucks and lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Papeete's vibrant waterfront food truck hub, offering diverse global and local flavors under the stars.
"A must-visit for authentic Polynesian street food and a lively evening atmosphere!"
🎯 Arrive after 6 PM
Most food trucks start serving around 6 PM. Don't miss the full experience!
🐟 Must-Try Poisson Cru
Seek out the trucks serving fresh poisson cru, a local delicacy. Many options available!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Food Trucks
Place Vai'ete
A vibrant array of food trucks serving everything from local poisson cru to international delights. A true culinary adventure!
Waterfront Ambiance
Place Vai'ete
Enjoy delicious meals with a view of the sea. The lively atmosphere makes it a perfect evening gathering spot.
Live Music & Local Vibe
Place Vai'ete
Experience the local culture with live music performances while you dine. A true taste of Polynesian evenings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Evening Foodie Paradise
Taste of Tahiti
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive after 6 PM
Most food trucks start serving around 6 PM. Don't miss the full experience!
🐟 Must-Try Poisson Cru
Seek out the trucks serving fresh poisson cru, a local delicacy. Many options available!
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Often, there's live music adding to the vibrant atmosphere. A great way to soak in the local culture.
🅿️ Free Parking Nearby
Convenient free parking is available close to the square, making access easy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive after 6 PM
Most food trucks start serving around 6 PM. Don't miss the full experience!
🐟 Must-Try Poisson Cru
Seek out the trucks serving fresh poisson cru, a local delicacy. Many options available!
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Often, there's live music adding to the vibrant atmosphere. A great way to soak in the local culture.
🅿️ Free Parking Nearby
Convenient free parking is available close to the square, making access easy.
🍦 Sweet Treats Available
Don't forget to leave room for ice cream or sorbet after your meal!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Vai'ete Roulottes as a vibrant evening destination offering a diverse and delicious street food experience. The lively atmosphere, waterfront location, and variety of cuisines, including local favorites like poisson cru, are frequently praised. While the food is a major draw, some note that the trucks don't open until later in the evening.
"We showed up to eat at the food trucks. We had a wonderful plate of special fried rice from one of the three trucks that were there."
Carroll Shroyer
"It's an open area with in walking distance from hotels with multiple food trucks with different types of cuisines. When we were there the had live music and ice cream or sorbet. The locals were also so friendly. The only negative is they don't open until about 6pm."
Sharon Burton
"Very nice place for truck food. Called in french "roulettes". They work every day at dinner time. Good food, from pizzas to ceviches, Chinese, seafood. The square is nice, very close to the sea at Papette. Must visit if you goes to Tahiti"
Francisco Duque
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vai'ete Roulottes is located in Place Vai'ete, right by the port in Papeete, Tahiti. It's easily accessible on foot from many hotels in the city center. Taxis are also readily available. 
Yes, there is free parking available nearby, which is convenient for those driving to the location.
Absolutely! Place Vai'ete is in the heart of Papeete, making it a very walkable destination from most downtown hotels and attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Place Vai'ete or to browse the food trucks. You only pay for the food you order.
The food trucks typically start operating in the evening, usually around 6 PM. They are a popular dinner spot.
Yes, the roulottes generally operate every day during dinner time, making it a consistent evening dining option.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find an incredible variety! Options include local specialties like poisson cru, crepes, pizzas, seafood, and various Asian cuisines such as Chinese and Thai.
Many visitors and locals highly recommend trying poisson cru, a traditional Tahitian dish. Look for the trucks where locals are queuing!
While many trucks focus on seafood and meat, you can often find options like vegetable fried rice, crepes, or pizzas that can be adapted. It's best to ask the vendors directly.
Yes, most food trucks will offer a selection of beverages, including soft drinks and water. Some may also have local juices.
It's generally considered affordable street food, offering good value for money compared to sit-down restaurants. Prices vary by truck and dish.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour just before sunset and the vibrant evening atmosphere with the lit-up trucks offer fantastic photo opportunities.
The waterfront promenade provides lovely shots of the food trucks with the ocean in the background. Capturing the bustling energy of the crowd is also key.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations: Look for trucks offering familiar options like pizza or simple grilled chicken. Sweet crepes are always a hit for dessert. The proximity to the waterfront also offers a pleasant backdrop for a family meal. Just be mindful that it gets busy, so keeping an eye on younger children is advised.
💰 Budget Travelers
Key recommendations: Focus on local specialties like poisson cru or simple noodle dishes for the best value. Compare prices between trucks if you're on a tight budget. The ability to choose from multiple vendors also means you can mix and match to create an affordable feast.
couples
+1 It's a great way to experience the local culture together in a relaxed setting. Key recommendations: Share a variety of dishes from different trucks to sample more flavors. Find a spot with a nice view of the water or the bustling square. The casual vibe makes it perfect for a laid-back date night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roulotte Experience
The atmosphere is electric, with locals and tourists mingling, enjoying their meals, and often serenaded by live music. It's a fantastic opportunity to sample a wide range of foods without committing to a single restaurant. Many visitors recommend following the locals to find the most authentic and delicious options. The proximity to the sea adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot for a casual and memorable dinner.
Pro-tip: Arrive after 6 PM to witness the full setup and enjoy the peak buzz. While most trucks offer a variety of cuisines, don't hesitate to ask about their specialties. It's a budget-friendly way to experience the local food scene and soak in the vibrant Polynesian culture.
Culinary Delights at Vai'ete
Beyond the local specialties, the roulottes offer a global culinary tour. You can find everything from Italian pizzas and French crepes to Chinese noodles and Thai curries. This makes it an ideal spot for groups with diverse tastes. Many reviewers highlight the quality and taste of the food, noting that it's a satisfying and delicious alternative to traditional restaurant dining.
Don't forget to explore the dessert options! Many trucks offer sweet crepes or ice cream, providing a perfect end to your meal. The combination of diverse food, lively ambiance, and waterfront views makes Vai'ete Roulottes a culinary highlight for any visitor to Papeete.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit