There’s something to be said for those in-between moments of travel—the spaces that exist between departure and true arrival. Landing at the Hilton Tahiti after my time in Bora Bora, I found myself in precisely such a moment, tired but curious, ready for whatever small adventure might present itself while waiting for my room.
Travel has taught me to embrace these liminal spaces rather than merely endure them. When the lovely woman at reception suggested Taitea Brasserie for lunch, I felt that familiar hunger of anticipation that comes with discovering something new, even in the most practical circumstances.
Settling into Taitea Brasserie – blessedly cool and mercifully welcoming – I felt the particular relief that comes after hours of travel. The menu looked delicious.
After browsing and settling into the delicious air condition, I ordered the DIRTY COCO (Amber Rhum, coconut infused Mezcal, lime juice & coconut syrup) and PAVÉ DE THON (tuna steak with French fries and coco & vanilla cream sauce).
When it arrived, I knew I ordered top tier bangers. The tuna, clearly local and impeccably fresh, had that clean taste of deep Pacific waters.
As I sat there, air conditioning cooling me in the heat, I realized that an hour had passed without my notice. This is the mark of a truly delicious meal: when time becomes irrelevant because you’re completely present in the moment.
By the time I finished, my room was ready – and I was ready for it.
Taitea Brasserie at Hilton Hotel Tahiti
Auae FaaaPapeete, 98713 French Polynesia
