Food & Drink

Maldivian cuisine is a delightful fusion of neighbouring influences, particularly those from Sri Lanka and India. Since the Maldives is mostly sea, fish takes the spotlight, but milk, oil, and grated toppings such as coconut each play a key role in Maldivian dishes. To enter Dhivehi cuisine is to embark on a flavour-packed journey, enhanced by the country’s competitive resort industry, which attracts ambitious chefs from around the world. Consider a dedicated Maldives foodie trip if you want to explore this side of the islands.

What is traditional Maldives cuisine?

Traditional Maldivian cuisine embraces fish common to the surrounding waters, including wahoo, mahi-mahi, scad, and several tuna species. Preparation options are endless, from frying to boiling, baking, smoking or drying. There’s even a popular fish-based breakfast called mas huni. A flavoursome bowl of garudhiya, a clear fish soup, is a street favourite during winter. Local, everyday lunches and dinners are usually based on steamed rice, or baked roshi (flatbread), served with a side dish. 

It’s not all about fish though! Vegetarian options are plentiful, and the Maldives has developed a wide variety of curry dishes. While a lot of them are fish-based, kukulhu riha serves up juicy chunks of chicken in a coconut and cardamom sauce. The Maldives takes a shot at tapas too, including kulshi boakibaa, a form of tropical fishcake. For something sweeter, try handulu bondibai, a popular rice pudding during Eid. 

What is the dining etiquette in the Maldives?

Many Maldivian dishes are prepared at the table and eaten by hand, so pay careful attention to this. You can always ask for cutlery if ‘rolling’ your rice like the locals do gets too messy. Remember to touch food and pass plates with your right hand only. A Maldivian meal is likely to contain many options, so take a small portion of everything (dietary restrictions excepted). Both your hosts and your taste buds will appreciate it. Note that pork is forbidden as per Islamic law, so don’t expect to find it in abundance, during prayer times, or during Ramadan.

What is the drinking etiquette in the Maldives?

Alcohol is permitted at resorts in the Maldives, and only at resorts. Foreigners are welcome to indulge, but expect alcohol to be priced accordingly. As with pork, you may not be served alcohol during prayer times or Ramadan.

Does the Maldives cater to dietary restrictions?

As a Muslim country, the Maldives caters well to dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and (unsurprisingly) pescatarian options. It’s a good idea to give the kitchen a list of dietary restrictions or allergies, particularly if staying on a catered package at your resort.

What do meals typically cost in the Maldives?

At resorts, prices for meals range from US$20 to US$100 or more per meal, depending on the experience and level of luxury. You’ll pay a premium to dine at an underwater restaurant, for example. You can cut down on costs by purchasing a half-board or full-board package. On the islands, it’s a different story, with a simple meal at a local cafe costing as little as US$5 to US$10.