For travellers, foodies, and locals alike, knowing where to eat in Apia can be the difference between a good meal and a lasting memory. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Samoa or returning to your favourite tropical getaway, one name consistently stands out on every foodie itinerary: Paddles Restaurant Samoa.

Recommended by the Samoa Pocket Guide, Secret Attractions, and ranked among the top restaurants in Samoa on TripAdvisor, Paddles draws in diners with its unique blend of Italian heart, Samoan soul, and world-class service.

Ready to reserve your table? Book now.

Paddles: A Local Favourite That Earned Its Place on Every Foodie Map

Paddles isn’t just another restaurant in Apia – it’s an institution. Mentioned in the Samoa Pocket Guide for its consistently high standards and warm hospitality, Paddles is a name that comes up again and again when people ask where to eat in Apia.

It’s also no stranger to international recognition, earning Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award thanks to its glowing reviews and loyal return customers. From couples seeking romantic restaurants in Samoa, to families and solo travellers in search of authentic flavour, Paddles has become a culinary anchor in the heart of Upolu.

At the core of its success? A family-run legacy that fuses Italian culinary traditions with fresh, local Samoan ingredients – a fusion of flavours that reflects both heritage and innovation.

What Sets Paddles Apart From Other Restaurants in Apia

Signature Dishes That Speak for Themselves

Paddles doesn’t follow food trends – it sets them. Guests rave about the handmade pumpkin ravioli, finished in a sage butter that perfectly balances sweet and savoury. The calamari, lightly battered and flash-fried, is a must for seafood lovers, while the seafood linguine overflows with prawns, mussels, and clams tossed in a garlic white wine sauce.

With each dish, there’s a conscious effort to celebrate fresh, locally sourced produce and seafood. It’s not just dinner – it’s a cultural experience on a plate.

A Dining Experience Designed to Impress

What makes the Paddles experience unforgettable isn’t just the menu. It’s the attention to detail. From the moment you step into the venue, you’re welcomed like family – by a team that knows hospitality is just as important as the food.

Dine with a waterfront view, candlelight atmosphere, and the kind of calm that only Apia can offer. The restaurant’s layout and ambience make it a top pick for romantic dinners, but its versatility also welcomes groups, vegetarian diners, and those with dietary needs. Gluten-free options are available too, with staff happy to accommodate.

Make Paddles the Centre of Your Apia Food Crawl

Sample Itinerary: Food, Culture and Sunset

5PM: Start with a sunset walk along Apia Harbour, just a short distance from the restaurant.

6PM: Enjoy your dinner reservation at Paddles – sip a handcrafted cocktail or fine Italian wine while savouring a freshly prepared main.

8PM: Head to a nearby spot for gelato or a nightcap. Ask the Paddles team for recommendations – they’ll be happy to point you to a local favourite.

This itinerary works well for those who want to maximise their evening in Apia, balancing culture, cuisine, and connection.

Book Your Table – The Foodie Trail Starts Here

When it comes to where to eat in Apia, few places manage to deliver on every level. Whether you’re here for the fresh seafood, the handmade pasta, or the family-owned atmosphere, Paddles Restaurant Samoa is more than just a stop on the trail – it’s the destination.

Discover why Paddles is more than a meal – it’s a moment. Reserve your table here.