Raphael Fitzherbert
The gorgeous archipelago of Maldives is probably the best place for enjoying the freshest seafood and an eclectic blend of international cuisine served across a range of themed restaurants and cafes.
Enjoy sights of a reef shark drifting along lazily as you dine on some the best gourmet cuisine in Maldives at the Ithaa underwater restaurant. Located at the Conrad Hilton on Rangali Island the restaurant is located five meters below sea level. Sit beneath the glass domed roof and enjoy the best European six course meals here. Ithaa in the national language translates to 'mother of pearl' which is quite an appropriate name for this gem of a restaurant. Just what do you get at this high-end eatery? A typical meal would be Malossol Imperial Caviar, Sour Cream Potato Blinis, Saffron Champagne Risotto with Yellowtail Kingfish accompanied by blissful deserts such as dreamy Mango Sorbet and Vanilla Chocolate Vantage. If not for a gourmet meal, do visit Ithaa for mid-morning cocktails or light lunch snack to views of the colourful coral beds and amazing marine life that thrive in the tropical waters. Do not miss this experience when dining in Maldives Island.
Muraka is a pastoral wooden restaurant that sits on the pier overlooking the lagoon of the South Ari Atoll. The restaurant is part of the Mirihi Island Resort and comes complete with an open floor for views of the ocean below. Executive Chef Felix Bamert offers you the freshest seafood dishes along with some of the best cuisine from around the world. Pink Peppercorn crusted tuna loin, lobster bisque and papaya salad are on the menu. If you are hankering for a taste of local delights order the 'Maldivian Experience'; this is a four course meal that brings all the flavours of the archipelago to your table. Do try the 'whole fish experience' where a fish of your choice is cooked to perfection right at your table.
Aptly called an 'Ocean Front food Theatre' the Sand restaurant sits right on the powdery white sand beaches of Velassaru Maldives resort. Dine on the wooden jetty over the ocean to sights of the gorgeous Indian Ocean. Definitely an experience for the romantic at heart the restaurant offers Eastern, Pan-Asian and Continental cuisine. Enjoy cocktails to views of an amazing sunset and tickle your taste buds with meals cooked over hot stone grill. Personal attention, the freshest seafood and a magical setting await you here. What's more this Maldivian beach resort is also well known for its Chill Bar, Fen Bar and Teppenyaki grill restaurant serving the best in Japanese grills, sushi and sashimi.
Encompassing all the charm and holistic nature of Thailand the Sala restaurant located within the Sala Boutique Hotel offers typical Siamese décor and works of art within a relaxed layout. Tucked away in a quiet spot away from the hustle and bustle of Male the restaurant is favoured by locals and tourists. Do try the shrimp in fish sauce and Thai herbs, Penang Curry and infamous Thai dessert sticky jasmine rice with juicy mango. The ingredients are flown in fresh daily while portions are generous. Do check out this restaurant featuring typical Thai wooden floors, wooden furniture and decorative windows.
Undoubtedly serving the best coffee in Male the Shell Bean Café is ideal for light meals and delicious snacks. The popular café has been in operation for over ten years and offers two locations to choose from; one in Ameena Magu and the other over the jetties of north Male. Free WiFi, light and flaky croissant sandwiches and a relaxed ambiance are lures that many love at the Shell Beans café.
