Maldivian Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes and Dining Experiences

Sun-drenched islands, turquoise waters, and swaying palms may first draw you to the Maldives, but its cuisine will tempt you to stay longer. Heavily influenced by Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic culinary traditions, Maldivian cuisine—locally known as Dhivehi cuisine—is a vibrant reflection of its island culture. From fresh seafood and tropical fruits to coconut-laced curries, every dish tells a story of coastal living, spice routes, and a deep-rooted connection to the ocean. Here’s your guide to the must-try dishes and unforgettable dining experiences in the Maldives.

Core Ingredients of Maldivian Cuisine

The foundation of Maldivian cooking is built on three essential ingredients:

• Tuna (Mas) – The king of Maldivian seafood, used in almost every meal.
• Coconut (Kaashi) – Grated, milked, or as oil, coconut adds richness and aroma.
• Starch (mainly rice, roshi, or breadfruit) – Forms the base of many meals.

You'll also find fragrant spices, lime, curry leaves, pandan, chilies, and onions playing supporting roles.

Top Maldivian Dishes You Can’t Miss

1. Mas Huni

A beloved Maldivian breakfast dish of shredded smoked tuna, grated coconut, onion, and chili—served with roshi (Maldivian flatbread) and lime. Light, flavorful, and perfect to start your island day.

2. Garudhiya

A clear tuna broth flavored with curry leaves, lime, and chilies, often eaten with rice, roshi, and fried tuna chunks. A staple comfort food in every Maldivian household.

3. Fihunu Mas

Grilled fish, typically tuna or reef fish, marinated with a fiery blend of Maldivian spices. Often grilled over open flames or hot stones on the beach.

4. Kulhi Boakibaa

A spiced fish cake made with smoked tuna, rice, and coconut, cut into squares and served as a tea-time snack or starter.

5. Bis Keemiya

A hybrid between a samosa and spring roll, this pastry is filled with tuna, chopped boiled egg, and cabbage. Fried to golden perfection and best enjoyed with sweet tea.

6. Rihaakuru

A thick, brown fish paste made by slow-cooking tuna for hours. Intensely umami and salty, it’s usually eaten with rice, roshi, or mixed into curries.

Refreshing Island Drinks & Sweets

• Raa – A traditional fermented toddy tapped from palm trees.
• Bondibaiy – A sweetened sticky rice dessert often flavored with rose water.
• Dhonkeyo Kajuru – Banana fritters made with ripe bananas and coconut.

Dining Experiences to Savor

Overwater Dining

Maldives is famous for its luxury overwater restaurants, where you can enjoy grilled seafood with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Try:

• Ithaa Undersea Restaurant (Conrad Maldives) – Dine under the sea!
• 5.8 Undersea Restaurant (Hurawalhi Island) – The world’s largest all-glass underwater restaurant.

Traditional Island Villages

Opt for local guesthouses in inhabited islands like Maafushi, Dhigurah, or Thoddoo, where hosts serve home-cooked Maldivian meals made from fresh-caught fish and garden ingredients.

Beach BBQs

A must-do experience! Fresh fish and lobster grilled on the beach, under the stars. Many resorts offer private BBQ setups on sandbanks or uninhabited islands.

Hedhikaa Time (Maldivian Tea Time)

Enjoy hedhikaa—Maldivian short eats—alongside a cup of sweet black tea in local cafés called "hotaa". You’ll find pastries, fish rolls, and coconut snacks all freshly made.

Tips for Food-Loving Travelers

• Try the local cafés (hotaa) in Male and on local islands for authentic dishes.
• Vegetarian options are limited but available—especially with coconut, lentils, and tropical veggies.
• Ask for less spicy if you're not used to chili heat.
• Don’t miss a cooking class—many resorts offer Maldivian culinary experiences.

Craving more than just a beach holiday? Let Hi DMC turn your vacation into a flavorful cultural adventure. From curated local food tours to private cooking classes with island chefs, Hi DMC helps you connect with the Maldives through its food—authentic, fresh, and unforgettable. Because the true flavor of the Maldives lies beyond the resort buffet—in its homes, markets, and hearts.

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