Our list of the 10 restaurants for the best food in Maldives promises an unforgettable culinary journey across this tropical paradise. From beachfront dining with stunning sunset views to gourmet experiences in luxurious overwater settings, these eateries offer diverse cuisines to suit every palate. Indulge in freshly caught seafood, savour authentic Maldivian flavours, or enjoy international dishes prepared by top chefs. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner or a casual family meal, these restaurants deliver exceptional taste and memorable dining moments. Get ready to explore Maldives’ vibrant food scene, where each bite is a blend of flavour and island charm!
10 Restaurants To Taste The Best Food In Maldives
Go on the culinary adventure of a lifetime with our comprehensive list of the 10 restaurants to enjoy the best food in Maldives:
1. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant
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Nestled five meters below sea level at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Ithaa Undersea Restaurant offers a unique dining experience with panoramic underwater views. The restaurant’s glass walls provide diners with a 180-degree view of the vibrant coral gardens and marine life surrounding it. The contemporary European cuisine is infused with Maldivian flavours, creating a fusion that delights the palate. The intimate setting accommodates a limited number of guests, ensuring personalized service. This is also an excellent place to sample Jain food in Maldives, available on request.
Location: Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives
Must-Try Dishes: Maldivian Live Lobster, Fish Curry
Mode Of Transport: Accessible via a seaplane transfer from Malé International Airport to Rangali Island
2. Sea Fire Salt Sky
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Located at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, Sea.Fire.Salt.Sky offers a diverse culinary journey across four distinct dining experiences. ‘Sea’ is an underwater restaurant and wine cellar, providing a unique dining experience surrounded by marine life. ‘Fire’ features a theatrical Teppanyaki kitchen where chefs showcase their skills. ‘Salt’ offers a unique dining experience with dishes enhanced by a salt selection guided by the resident Salt Guru. ‘Sky’ is a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the ocean and the stars, complemented by cocktails and light bites.
Location: Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, Kihavah Huravalhi Island, Baa Atoll, Maldives
Must-Try Dishes: Grilled Seafood Platter, Tuna Tataki, Seafood Paella
Mode Of Transport: Accessible via a scenic seaplane transfer from Malé International Airport
3. The Lighthouse Restaurant
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Perched over the lagoon at Baros Maldives, The Lighthouse Restaurant is renowned for its iconic white sail design and stunning panoramic ocean views. The elegant setting is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion. The menu showcases a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian-inspired dishes, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local ingredients. Guests can choose to dine indoors or on the open-air deck under the stars.
Location: Baros Maldives, North Malé Atoll, Maldives
Must-Try Dishes: Grilled Maldivian Lobster, Seafood Risotto, Tiramisu
Mode Of Transport: Accessible via a speedboat transfer from Malé International Airport
4. Baan Huraa
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Situated at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, Baan Huraa offers an authentic Thai dining experience in a traditional wooden pavilion overlooking the Indian Ocean. The restaurant is renowned for its aromatic Thai cuisine, prepared by experienced Thai chefs using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. The serene ambience is enhanced by the gentle sound of waves and the warm Maldivian hospitality. This is an excellent option to savour some of the best vegetarian food in Maldives.
Location: Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, Kuda Huraa Island, North Malé Atoll
Must-Try Dishes: Tom Yum Goong, Green Curry Chicken, Mango Sticky Rice
Mode Of Transport: Accessible via a speedboat transfer from Malé International Airport
5. Shades of Green
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Located within the lush organic gardens of Soneva Fushi, Shades of Green is a plant-based restaurant that celebrates fresh, seasonal produce. The dining experience begins with a tour of the garden, allowing guests to see where their food is sourced. The menu is inspired by Maldivian and Southeast Asian cuisines, focusing on natural flavours and innovative presentations. Dishes are crafted to highlight the freshness and quality of the ingredients, with an emphasis on sustainability.
Location: Soneva Fushi, Kunfunadhoo Island, Baa Atoll, Maldives
Must-Try Dishes: Rotating bistro menu featuring seasonal vegetables, salads, fruits
Mode Of Transport: Accessible via Malé International Airport followed by a short speedboat ride
6. Reethi Restaurant
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As the main dining venue at One&Only Reethi Rah, Reethi Restaurant offers a sophisticated culinary experience with a focus on international cuisines. The restaurant is divided into three distinct areas: Earth, Fire, and Aqua, each offering a unique ambience and menu. ‘Earth’ features modern European cuisine, ‘Fire’ showcases Asian flavours with an open-concept kitchen, and ‘Aqua’ offers seafood specialities in a serene setting overlooking the lagoon.
Average Cost of Food: Starting from MVR 1,500 per person (approximately INR 7,000).
Location: One&Only Reethi Rah, North Malé Atoll, Maldives
Must-Try Dishes: Variety of global cuisines prepared in an open-concept kitchen
7. Muraka
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Situated at Mirihi Island Resort, Muraka is an overwater restaurant that offers a fusion of international and Maldivian cuisine. The name ‘Muraka’ translates to ‘coral’ in Dhivehi, reflecting the restaurant’s connection to the surrounding marine environment. The open-air design allows guests to dine while enjoying uninterrupted views of the ocean and the gentle sea breeze. The menu features a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian options, all prepared with a focus on flavour and presentation.
Location: Mirihi Island Resort, South Ari Atoll, Maldives
Must-Try Dishes: Fresh seafood and authentic dishes in a rustic wooden setting
8. Ministry Of Crab
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An extension of the renowned Sri Lankan restaurant, Ministry of Crab Maldives is located at Crossroads Maldives, offering a unique dining experience focusing on fresh, high-quality seafood, particularly crab dishes. The restaurant’s interior is designed to reflect its Sri Lankan roots, with rustic décor and an open kitchen concept. The menu showcases a variety of crab dishes, prepared in different styles to highlight the natural flavours of the seafood.
Location: Crossroads Maldives, South Malé Atoll, Maldives
Must-Try Dishes: Chili Crab, Pepper Crab, Garlic Chili Prawn
Mode Of Transport: Accessible via a 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport
9. Baraabaru
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Located at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, Baraabaru offers an exquisite Indian dining experience in a stunning overwater pavilion. The restaurant’s design draws inspiration from traditional Indian architecture, featuring vibrant colours and intricate woodwork. Guests can choose to dine indoors or on the open-air deck overlooking the ocean. The menu showcases a fusion of Indian flavours with fresh local seafood, offering dishes like Tandoori Murgh and Ajwaini Fish Tikka. This is a must-visit to savour some of the best Indian vegetarian food in Maldives.
Location: Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, North Malé Atoll, Maldives
Must-Try Dishes: Tandoori Meen, Malabar Prawn Curry, Naan Bread.
Mode Of Transport: Accessible via a 25-minute speedboat transfer from Malé International Airport
10. Ba’theli By The Reef
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Situated at Milaidhoo Island Maldives, Ba’theli by the Reef offers a unique dining experience aboard a modern interpretation of a traditional Maldivian sailing boat, known as a ‘ba’theli.’ The restaurant is the world’s only Maldivian fine dining venue located on a traditional dhoni in a serene lagoon. The menu takes guests on a culinary journey through the Maldivian Spice Route, featuring gourmet dishes inspired by island cuisine.
Location: Milaidhoo Island, Baa Atoll, Maldives
Must-Try Dishes: Contemporary renditions of classic Indian, Sri Lankan, and Maldivian preparations
Mode Of Transport: Accessible via a seaplane transfer from Malé International Airport
Indulging in the best food in Maldives is more than just a culinary experience — it’s a journey through vibrant flavours, stunning views, and unforgettable moments. From underwater dining adventures to overwater pavilions with ocean breezes, each restaurant offers something unique. Whether you crave authentic Maldivian spices, fresh seafood, or global cuisines prepared by expert chefs, these dining spots ensure every meal is a memorable experience. As you explore the Maldives, let these exceptional eateries elevate your holiday with outstanding taste and impeccable service. Dive into this tropical paradise and savour the finest dining experiences the Maldives has to offer with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Martin Falbisoner / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only