The Maldives is home to a rich and diverse culinary tradition. Maldivian cuisine, or Dhivehi cuisine, is a beautiful fusion of flavours influenced by the island nation’s historical trade routes and cultural exchanges with India, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East.
The result is a distinctive blend of aromatic spices, coconut-infused curries, and fresh seafood, reflecting both the island’s geography and its deep-rooted traditions.
Food plays a central role in Maldivian culture, not just as sustenance but as an expression of hospitality and community. Traditional Maldivian meals are often shared, with families and friends gathering around to enjoy home-cooked dishes. We offer luxury and budget Maldives packages tailored to your preferences, ensuring an unforgettable tropical escape.
Guests are warmly welcomed with generous servings of local delicacies, reinforcing the deep-rooted values of togetherness and generosity. No matter you’re dining at a local home or exploring a bustling Maldivian food market, the cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression of warmth and rich flavours.
Must-Try Maldivian Dishes
Maldivian cuisine offers a variety of delicious dishes that showcase the island’s rich seafood culture, love for coconut, and bold flavours. Maldivian food is a true reflection of the island’s tropical essence. Here are some must-try dishes that capture the heart of Maldivian cuisine.
Mas Huni
One of the most beloved Maldivian breakfast dishes, Mas Huni is a simple yet flavourful mix of tuna, freshly grated coconut, onions, and chili, brightened with a squeeze of lime juice. The dish is packed with protein and natural fats, making it an energy-boosting meal to start the day.
Mas Huni is traditionally eaten with roshi, a soft and thin Maldivian flatbread similar to Indian chapati. It’s commonly accompanied by hot black tea, balancing the richness of the dish.
The combination of creamy coconut, flaky tuna, and fiery chilies creates a perfect harmony of flavours, making Mas Huni a staple in every Maldivian household.
Garudhiya
A dish that embodies Maldivian home cooking, Garudhiya is a fragrant fish soup made with a clear tuna broth, lightly seasoned with salt. The preparation is simple yet incredibly satisfying—chunks of fresh tuna are slow-cooked in water, allowing the natural flavours to develop into a nourishing, umami-rich soup.
Garudhiya is traditionally served with rice, lime, chili, and onions, allowing diners to customize their bowl with fresh, tangy, and spicy elements.
Some locals also enjoy it with roshi or dried fish, adding extra texture and depth. This dish is a staple in Maldivian households, offering comfort and warmth, especially after a long day.
Fihunu Mas
As an island nation surrounded by pristine waters, grilled fish is a key feature of Maldivian cuisine. Fihunu Mas, or grilled fish, is a dish where whole fish or fillets are marinated in a mixture of chili, garlic, lime, and curry leaves, then grilled over an open flame or a traditional wood-fired stove.
Popular fish varieties used for Fihunu Mas include tuna, snapper, or grouper, as these species are abundantly found in Maldivian waters. The result is a smoky, spicy, and perfectly charred fish that’s often served with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, and a spicy chili-based dipping sauce.
Fihunu Mas is a favourite at local beachside barbecues, bringing families and friends together over the warmth of the fire.
Kulhi Boakibaa
A cherished Maldivian snack, Kulhi Boakibaa is a delicious fish cake made with smoked tuna, grated coconut, rice, and aromatic spices like turmeric and cumin. The mixture is baked until golden brown, creating a crispy crust while remaining soft and flavourful inside.
Historically, Kulhi Boakibaa was prepared for special occasions and celebrations, such as religious festivals or family gatherings. Today, it is widely enjoyed as an everyday snack, often paired with a cup of tea in the late afternoon. The balance of smoky fish and creamy coconut makes this dish truly irresistible.
Bondibaiy
For those with a sweet tooth, Bondibaiy is a must-try Maldivian dessert. This sweet rice pudding is made by slowly cooking rice in coconut milk, sugar, and fragrant rose water, resulting in a rich and creamy texture. Sometimes, cardamom and cinnamon are added to enhance the aroma.
Bondibaiy is traditionally prepared during festive occasions, especially during Ramadan and important life events like weddings and childbirth celebrations. It is often served with a drizzle of coconut milk or honey, making it a comforting and indulgent treat to end a meal.
Refreshing Beverages to Try
The Maldives isn’t just about stunning beaches and fresh seafood—it also boasts a selection of refreshing local beverages that perfectly complement the island lifestyle. From traditional teas to naturally sourced coconut drinks, Maldivian beverages are deeply rooted in local culture and provide a delightful way to stay cool in the tropical heat.
Sai (Maldivian Tea)
Tea, or Sai, is one of the most popular drinks in the Maldives, enjoyed by locals throughout the day. Inspired by the tea-drinking traditions of Sri Lanka and India, Maldivians often drink black tea, either plain or sweetened with sugar, sometimes infused with spices like cardamom or cinnamon for extra flavour.
Sai is commonly served in local tea shops, known as Sai Hotaa, where people gather to socialize, discuss daily affairs, and enjoy small snacks known as hedhikaa (Maldivian short eats). These tea houses are an integral part of Maldivian culture, offering a cozy and informal setting for both locals and visitors to experience authentic island hospitality.
Kurumba (Fresh Coconut Water)
Nothing is more refreshing under the Maldivian sun than Kurumba, the sweet and natural water from a young green coconut. The Maldives is abundant with coconut palms, and Kurumba is the go-to drink for hydration, loved for its natural sweetness and electrolyte-rich composition.
Locals and tourists alike enjoy Kurumba straight from the coconut, often with a straw or by sipping directly from the husk after it’s cut open.
It’s highly hydrating, full of essential minerals, and naturally cooling, making it the perfect drink to re-energize after a long day of exploring or swimming in the warm ocean. Some resorts even offer Kurumba served chilled or mixed with lime for an extra refreshing twist.
Raa (Toddy Palm Drink)
For those looking to try a unique and traditional Maldivian drink, Raa is a must. This is a naturally fermented beverage made from coconut palm sap, collected by skilled toddy tappers who climb coconut trees and extract the sweet liquid from the flower buds. Raa is slightly sweet and mildly fermented, giving it a light effervescence.
Locals often drink fresh Raa straight after collection when it’s at its sweetest, but if left to ferment longer, it develops a mildly alcoholic content, making it the closest thing to a traditional Maldivian alcoholic drink (since alcohol is otherwise prohibited in local islands).
Best Places to Experience Authentic Maldivian Cuisine
Exploring Maldivian cuisine is about immersing yourself in the island’s culture, history, and way of life. Here’s where to find the most authentic Maldivian flavours.
Local Island Cafés and Street Food Stalls
One of the best ways to experience authentic Maldivian cuisine is to visit the small cafés and street food stalls found on local islands. These casual eateries, known as Sai Hotaa (tea shops), are where locals gather to enjoy affordable, home-style meals and traditional Maldivian snacks.
In Malé, check out places like The Seagull Café House and Symphony Maldives, both offering a mix of traditional and contemporary Maldivian dishes. For a truly local experience, explore cafés on inhabited islands such as Himmafushi or Maafushi, where family-run eateries serve fresh fish curries, Mas Huni, and Garudhiya.
Resort Dining
While local eateries provide a taste of everyday Maldivian meals, luxury resorts offer a refined take on traditional flavours, blending island ingredients with gourmet techniques. Many five-star resorts in the Maldives and Seychelles incorporate local dishes into their menus, elevating classic Maldivian flavours into fine-dining experiences. Fine-dining in the Maldives is an unforgettable experience set against breathtaking ocean views.
Island-Hopping for Food
Each Maldivian island has its own interpretation of traditional dishes, making island-hopping an exciting way to discover regional variations of Maldivian cuisine. While some islands focus on seafood-heavy dishes, others incorporate root vegetables, breadfruit, and different spice blends into their meals.
- Visit Maafushi or Dhigurah for authentic home-cooked Maldivian meals, prepared by local families.
- On Thoddoo Island, known for its agriculture, you can enjoy fresh tropical fruit platters with hand-squeezed coconut cream.
- Haa Alif Atoll is famous for its traditional Mas Huni variations, sometimes incorporating breadfruit or pumpkin instead of tuna for a unique twist.
- The islands of Meemu Atoll serve some of the best hand-ground coconut curries, where the spices are mixed and ground using traditional methods for maximum flavor.
- For an authentic culinary adventure, consider joining a local food tour, where you can visit markets, try freshly prepared seafood, and even learn how to cook traditional Maldivian dishes.
Dining Etiquette and Maldivian Food Culture
Maldivian food culture is deeply rooted in tradition, hospitality, and communal dining. Meals are a social experience, and understanding Maldivian dining etiquette adds to the experience and shows appreciation for the island’s culture.
Traditional Dining Customs
One of the most distinctive aspects of Maldivian dining is the tradition of eating with hands, particularly when enjoying dishes like Garudhiya (fish soup with rice) or Mas Huni (tuna and coconut mix with flatbread). The right hand is customarily used to scoop food, as the left hand is considered unclean in many Maldivian traditions.
When dining with locals, you may notice people using their fingers to mix rice with curries to increase both the flavour and texture of the dish.
Food in Maldivian homes is often served on a large communal platter, especially during family meals and festive gatherings. Eating is a shared experience, and guests are encouraged to take part in the meal rather than eat separately. If you are invited into a Maldivian home, it is considered polite to accept the food offered and show gratitude, even if you only take a small portion.
While cutlery is widely available, especially in restaurants and resorts, using your hands is still a common and respected practice among locals. Some traditional eateries may provide a bowl of water for washing hands before and after meals.
The Importance of Hospitality in Maldivian Culture
Hospitality is at the heart of Maldivian culture, and sharing food is a sign of warmth and generosity. Maldivians take pride in welcoming guests, whether they are friends, family, or travellers.
It is common for hosts to serve an abundance of food so that guests feel valued and well-fed. Refusing an offer of food may be seen as impolite, so even if you are full, it is best to accept a small portion and express appreciation.
During religious and cultural celebrations, such as Ramadan, Maldivians often invite neighbours and guests to break the fast (Iftar) together, offering traditional dishes like Bondibaiy (sweet coconut rice) and fresh fruits. Festivals and special occasions are marked by lavish feasts, with multiple dishes prepared for both family members and visitors.
Another aspect of Maldivian food culture is drinking tea. Tea shops, or Sai Hotaa, are central to social life, where locals gather to drink black tea (Sai) and enjoy small snacks. If invited to share tea with locals, it’s a great opportunity to engage in conversation and experience Maldivian hospitality firsthand.
Dining Etiquette Tips for Visitors
For travellers looking to enjoy Maldivian cuisine with respect and authenticity, here are a few etiquette tips to keep in mind:
Respect local customs—on inhabited islands, modest dress and polite table manners are expected, especially in family settings.
Use your right hand when eating with fingers or accepting food.
Be open to sharing—communal dining is a key part of Maldivian food culture.
Try everything offered, even if it’s just a small taste, to show appreciation for the host’s generosity.
Express gratitude after the meal—saying “Shukuriyaa” (thank you) is always appreciated.
