Nova Scotia Business Owner Introduces Mauritian Cuisine to Canada

A unique culinary venture is taking shape in Nova Scotia, as Tanya Suefna introduces the flavours of Mauritius to the local community through her business, Mo Gato Mauritian Delicacies. Established in 2022, Suefna’s company offers an array of dishes inspired by her homeland, a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar.

Upon relocating to Canada, Suefna discovered the challenges of finding a community of fellow Mauritians. “In Canada, they are very spread out, so I was trying to find my home here,” she explained. Recognizing a gap in the local food scene, she began serving traditional Mauritian treats at the Alderney Landing market. Her initial offering was a strawberry-guava flavoured cookie, which marked the beginning of what she describes as “a very wonderful adventure.” Today, Mo Gato features over 20 unique flavours.

Culinary Diversity and Community Engagement

Mo Gato stands out as the only business in the region dedicated to Mauritian cuisine, which is known for its rich blend of influences from India, China, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Suefna remarked, “Basically, all the countries that settled on the island joined together and created this amazing food.” This diversity is a hallmark of Mauritian culinary culture and is reflected in the offerings at Mo Gato.

According to Natalie Frederick-Wilson, the lead of the SPICE program at the Centre for Women in Business, Suefna’s holiday-friendly products, including “gorgeous” Neapolitan cookies and lamington cakes, exemplify the mission of the program. “More than anything, we are highlighting that throughout the course of the time that we’ve been here, we’ve brought you so many cuisines,” Frederick-Wilson stated. She emphasized that the SPICE program is inclusive, welcoming women from all backgrounds who are eager to grow and scale their businesses.

Expanding the Menu and Community Presence

In 2025, Mo Gato expanded its menu to include traditional savoury dishes, complementing its sweet offerings. The menu now features fried noodles and “melt-in-your-mouth” buttery shortbread cookies. Suefna’s products are available through catering services, at various regional events, and every Saturday at the Halifax Brewery Market.

This initiative not only enriches the local food landscape but also fosters a sense of community among those who yearn for authentic Mauritian flavours. Suefna’s journey illustrates the potential of small businesses to create meaningful connections and introduce diverse culinary experiences to new audiences. For Nova Scotia residents, the emergence of Mo Gato is a delightful opportunity to explore the vibrant tastes of Mauritius.