Kanya Mae
The Maldives is a picture postcard destination of palm trees, sun-kissed sands, aquamarine waters and over-water pavilions but it also offers dining experiences unlike anywhere else in the world.
Make your way to Boduthakurufaanu Magu in Male to discover a fantastic little eating place. Newport pops out like an oasis to travellers on the bustling beach facing the street. It is open from 6am to 1am, which means you can even pop in for a midnight snack. The décor is minimalistic and your menu is presented on an iPad. The eatery has a trendy, modern vibe that sets it apart from other restaurants in the country. Stop by if you want a hearty breakfast and some great coffee, try the prawns, falafel or seared tuna cubes for lunch. They also have a range of sandwiches and burgers that hit the spot at any given time of day.
Stop by one of the best Maldives resorts for a dining experience of a completely different kind. The Koimala Garden Restaurant, named after one of the historic Maldivian queens, is located at Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives. It is a family friendly restaurant that is located right by the edge of the water. It features two separate dining areas and rolls out a magnificent buffet spread fit for royalty for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is easily the largest buffet you will find anywhere on the island. If your group has fussy eaters, this is the perfect option because there is something for everyone. Choose from Western, Eastern and traditional Maldivian cuisines or try a little bit of everything!
If you want a buffet that is equally great but with a different view, try the Maakana Restaurant, which is also located on the same property in the vicinity of Pasta Point. Maakana refers to an elegant grey heron, a common sight around the island. The restaurant boasts a circular layout topped by a striking cone-shaped high roof. You can enjoy views of the surf break with maakana winging by as you dine. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and you will be treated to live cooking stations, where the chefs whip up delicious dishes right before your eyes in only a matter of minutes!
The Seagull Café House is known for its spectacular ice cream selection, which is a must try if you dine here. The ice cream menu has no less than thirty flavours; you can try tropical flavours like pineapple and coconut, a sophisticated one like blackberry or even something fun like bubblegum. The main courses draw from Western, Indian and Maldivian cuisines.
If upmarket is what you are looking for, head to Aioli on Lotus Goalhi Road. The restaurant's interior mixes dark wood and creamy white furnishings set off by a candlelit ambience, or you can choose to dine on the terrace. The menu offers premium dishes like Black Angus steak, crab in a coconut chilli preparation and baked mussels.
