Dining In Paradise: 6 Of The Best Restaurants In Maldives

White sand beaches, magnificent hotels, 26 serene atolls and some of the world's best scuba and snorkel sites - the Maldives is truly a dream holiday destination. If you dream of sheltered blue lagoons, beautiful coral islands and crystal-clear water with a hint of luxury, holidays in Maldives will turn all of this into a reality. This paradise in the Indian Ocean, without a doubt, is one of the most popular spots for honeymooners and couples. But to say that the country is only limited to newlyweds or couples will be unfair as it is much more than that and has a lot more to offer. There are fabulous family resorts with infinity pools, a huge range of water activities and, of course, classy waterfront restaurants and bars where you can kick back and enjoy cocktails by the pool and dinners on the sand.  

When thinking of Maldivian restaurants, there's typically one picture that pops to mind: dining in paradise. The idyllic Maldives islands have many exquisite, ground-level restaurants worthy of praise - many of them using freshly caught seafood to make memorably divine dishes. Here's my list of favourite restaurants in Maldives.  

Here Are 6 Of The Best Restaurants In Maldives:  

1. Palm, Kuramathi  

Sitting stylishly in the island's centre, Palm offers some quintessential Mediterranean flavours in an elegant setting. The restaurant boasts an interesting menu that includes fresh island-grown salads, antipasti, pasta, traditional Italian pizza with crispy thin crusts, and homemade ice cream that has both tropical and classical flavours. As the name suggests, the vibe of the restaurant is quite tropical with a dash of luxury design elements like a canopy made of palms, handmade white furniture, bespoke ceramic tiles, and bamboo walls that complement the dining experience. The star dishes of the menu are the classic Napolitana pasta, Lamb Shank, Pizza alle verdure and Maldivian reel fish.
Where: Kuramathi, Ari Atoll  
 

2. Thari, Noku  

'Thari' in Maldivian Dhivehi means 'star'. Quite justifying its name, the restaurant is the star feature of the resort. Thari offers an eclectic menu featuring elements from Thai, Japanese and Singaporean cuisines - bringing authentic local cuisine from the countries where Noku hotels are located. You will not find a bad dish on the menu; everything tastes good. Everything is executed well - right from the seasoning to the presentation. The team has a wonderful gift of putting ingredients together that work.  
Where: Noku, Kuda Funafaru, Noonu Atoll
Also Read: Discover Maldivian Cuisine: 3 Delicious Maldivian Recipes
 

3. The Falhumaa, The Residence Falhumaafushi  

Nestled on the 230-metre-long jetty above the reef, The Falhumaa is for all seafood lovers! The restaurant has had a high reputation for its fresh fish dishes for quite some time now. You'll immediately fall in love with the stunning interior, 360-degree ocean views and delectable food menu. The menu boasts of an exquisite selection of western cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood and grilled meats, paired with fine wines from around the world. Start your evening at the bar sampling interesting cocktails and then move to the table facing the ocean, and later retire for after-dinner liqueurs.

When you're lucky enough to stumble across it in your search for a great sundowner like I did, unwind in an outdoor setting with a magnificent view along with a selection of high teas, and some delicious sweet and savoury delights.
Where: The Residence, Falhumaafushi, Gaafu Alifu Atoll

4. Inguru, Kuramathi

Inguru is chic and oh-so-pretty! This day-to-night restaurant proves once again that Maldives's food scene is coming up in leaps and bounds. Situated on the lagoon side, overlooking the beautiful Indian ocean, Inguru is known for its lip-smacking Asian cuisine that comes with a light western touch. Head here for a light meal alfresco and a spot of people-watching; better still, plan a romantic dinner with your partner.  
I prefer sitting on the outside patio - a perfect place for sinking afternoon cocktails and soaking in some gorgeous ocean views.    
Where: Kuramathi, Ari Atoll  

5. Palms, Noku  

Maldives holidays are all about taking things easy; so is the vibe of Palms at Noku. This beachfront restaurant is known among the foodie circuit for serving some of the freshest seafood in the Maldives - straight from the ocean onto your plate. Settled on golden sands, Palm operates at a different pace of life - relaxed and calm yet stylish and in its element. Head here for hearty lunch, and later move to its bar for interesting after-meal cocktails as you watch the world go by. You can also take a stroll on the soft sandy beach while sipping cocktails and let the place do the rest.  
Where: Where: Noku, Kuda Funafaru, Noonu Atoll
 

6. Cafe Del Sol, The Residence Dhigurah  

The Mediterranean meets the Maldives at waterside haunt, Cafe Del Sol. Granted, when you're picturing Maldives holidays, Mediterranean food may not be on the top of your list. But when there's a place like Cafe Del Sol curating some of the best dishes on the island - you make an exception. The place has an interesting menu that includes appetizers like mezze, Fattoush salad and shakshuka and a main course boasting a range of delectable pasta and fresh pizzas. Not just that, you have a wide range of cocktails to pair your meal with. You can sit inside or pick a lounger at the pool's edge and pair your refreshing selections of salads, pizzas, pasta and tapas with interesting cocktails.  
Where: The Residence, Dhigurah, Gaafu Alifu Atoll