Joanna James
Frequented by beach lovers from around the globe the archipelago of Maldives is also a food lover's dream destination. Here's a list of some of the country's top restaurants for your next holiday.
Often regarded as one of the most interactive Maldives restaurants in the country Dine IN! The Kitchen is not only the most popular restaurant inside Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives but also among the best seafood hubs in the area. With an interactive open kitchen set up the restaurant offers visitors a glimpse behind -the-scenes of the kitchen where chefs prepare the scintillating seafood fare right before their eyes. A well-known dinner option Dine IN! The Kitchen puts on culinary showcase each Wednesday.
Occupying pride of place in Athamaa Goalhi Symphony is part of one of the most successful local restaurant chains in the country which owns both Symphony Garden and Symphony Solo. Located in the Malé city centre the restaurant offers dinners an extensive menu littered with Indian, continental, Chinese and Indonesian dishes in a tranquil setting. The seafood offering such as the lobster dishes are some of the more coveted items o the menu which also includes a range of seafood and veggie pies.
Having been a well-known fixture in Malé for more than a decade the Shell Beans Cafes are found in two locations in the Maldivian capital. With one occupying the area near the city's jetties and the other located in Ameenee Magu visitors have a choice of visiting either establishment to sample the signature salads and 'croissantwiches' the venue is famed for. Also known to serve the best cup of coffee in the capital the scrumptious cakes and baked goods in Shell Beans are other hot pick menu items to try.
Situated in a peaceful area close to Ameer Ahmed Magu Aioli Restaurant is the best venue in Male to sample south Asian cuisine. Serving well-known favourites the Mediterranean take on the dishes is what sets Aioli apart from similar eateries in the city in addition to its tastefully decorated interiors. Don't forget to order the Addu Kukulhu Reha or the saffron rice which has been prepared to perfection the traditional Spanish way. The serene and tranquil atmosphere is also idea for diners in search of a special place for a meal as the locale's alfresco dining area on the balcony is simply breathtaking.
Those who wish to experience some of the best cafés in the Maldivian capital should drop by the iconic Seagull Cafe House down Faradhee Magu. Famed to serve the most delectable scoops of ice cream in the city the more than thirty varieties include exotic flavours the likes of coconut, mango and pineapple. Serving mainly Maldivian, Indian and Western favourites the bistro style menu include mouth-watering options.
Found in the first level of Malé's ferry terminal The Sea House not only offers panoramic ocean views from its open deck but also some of the best mocktails in the capital. South Asian fare occupies most of the menu which includes papaya salads and Thai staples such as green curries in the mix with Maldivian dishes the likes of Mashuni Roshi. Ideal for breakfast or brunch the Sea House is also an affordable dining option for visitors in search of a great food at a reasonable price.
Having been a coveted fixture in the country's dining scene since it first opened in 2011 Palace Sichuan has gone on to become one of the best Cantonese food vendors in the capital. The large restaurant with private dining areas is not only perfect for family gatherings but also business soirees. With ingredients flown in from China there can be no doubt as to the authenticity of the restaurant's extensive menu.
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