A Friendly Guide to Restaurants in the Maldives
Visiting the Maldives is like entering a tropical paradise, known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. The Maldives offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best restaurants in the Maldives, catering to a wide range of palates and budgets. So, whether you’re a food connoisseur or just looking for a scrumptious meal, this guide will help you navigate the Maldivian culinary landscape.
1. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant
Located at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant is a world-famous dining destination, offering an unparalleled experience. Submerged five meters below sea level, Ithaa offers breathtaking 180-degree views of the surrounding coral garden and marine life. The menu features contemporary European cuisine with a Maldivian twist. Make sure to reserve your table well in advance, as this unique dining experience is in high demand.
2. Subsix
Another exceptional underwater dining experience is Subsix, found within the luxurious Niyama Private Islands resort. Accessed by speedboat and a three-story descent, the restaurant is submerged six meters beneath the ocean’s surface. Subsix features a menu of fresh seafood, cocktails, and champagne, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a memorable special occasion. The vibrant coral reef and floor-to-ceiling windows create an enchanting atmosphere you’ll never forget.
3. Muraka Restaurant
Muraka, which means ‘coral’ in the Maldivian language, is a beautiful over-water restaurant at the Mirihi Island Resort. This fine-dining venue offers an exquisite fusion of international and Maldivian cuisine, complemented by an extensive wine selection. With its serene ocean views, Muraka provides the perfect setting for a romantic meal or intimate gathering.
4. The Lighthouse Restaurant
Located in Baros Maldives, The Lighthouse Restaurant is an elegant over-water dining venue with a thatched roof and spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. The restaurant serves a delightful array of Mediterranean and Asian-inspired dishes. Don’t miss their signature Lighthouse Lobster, prepared with local Maldivian lobster and a delicate lemon-butter sauce.
5. Sea.Fire.Salt
Sea.Fire.Salt, part of the Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, offers a unique outdoor dining experience. With a breathtaking beachfront location, the restaurant offers a sumptuous array of grilled seafood and meat dishes, cooked to perfection using Himalayan salt bricks. A resident Salt Guru will guide you in selecting the perfect salt variety to enhance your meal, while the stunning ocean view adds to the unforgettable dining experience.
6. Maaniya Restaurant
Located in the Sun Island Resort & Spa, Maaniya Restaurant offers a more casual dining experience. This open-air buffet-style restaurant features a variety of international dishes and themed nights. From authentic Maldivian cuisine to Italian and Asian fare, there is something for everyone. With its relaxed atmosphere and lush garden surroundings, Maaniya is an ideal choice for families and those looking for a more laid-back dining experience.
7. Reethi Restaurant
At the One&Only Reethi Rah Resort, the Reethi Restaurant is a stylish and contemporary dining venue. The restaurant features an open kitchen and offers a fusion of Asian, French, and Italian cuisine. With its innovative menu and elegant atmosphere, Reethi is perfect for those seeking a refined dining experience. The restaurant also offers a stunning over-water terrace, where you can enjoy a meal under the stars with the sound of the ocean waves as your backdrop.
8. Lemongrass Restaurant
Located in Rasdhoo Atoll, Lemongrass Restaurant is a popular spot among both locals and tourists. Known for its delicious Thai and Maldivian dishes, the restaurant offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. The menu at Lemongrass is extensive, featuring curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes, all prepared with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. This is an excellent choice for those looking to try local cuisine in a comfortable setting.
9. The Cellar
Nestled within the Huvafen Fushi resort, The Cellar is an intimate underground wine cellar and dining venue. With its unique setting and a collection of over 6,000 bottles of wine, The Cellar offers an unforgettable dining experience. The menu features a curated selection of gourmet dishes, each expertly paired with a wine chosen by the in-house sommelier. Reservations are required, and the venue is ideal for special occasions and romantic dinners.
10. Ufaa by Jereme Leung
Located in the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Ufaa by Jereme Leung is a sophisticated restaurant offering innovative Chinese cuisine. Celebrity chef Jereme Leung, known for his contemporary take on traditional Chinese dishes, has crafted an exquisite menu featuring a mix of dim sum, hand-pulled noodles, and signature dishes. With its stylish ambiance and a beautiful beachfront setting, Ufaa is a must-visit for those seeking an upscale dining experience with an Asian flair.
With this guide to the best restaurants in the Maldives, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect dining experience for your taste and budget. From underwater adventures to romantic dinners under the stars, the Maldives offers a culinary journey that is as diverse and unforgettable as its breathtaking surroundings.