Ordering Food in Maldives for My Upcoming Trip - English Guide

If you're planning to travel to the exotic Maldives, one thing that you should definitely look forward to is the amazing cuisine! With its tropical climate and oceanic location, this archipelago nation boasts a diverse range of dishes that are a reflection of the local culture, as well as influences from neighbouring Southeast Asian countries like India and Sri Lanka. Whether you're a foodie or not, you're bound to have a memorable gastronomic experience in Maldives. However, if you're not familiar with the local food scene, ordering food in Maldives may seem confusing or intimidating at first. That's why we've put together this English guide to help you navigate your way through the menus and make the most of your dining adventures!

1. Know the Common Menu Items

Before you sit down at a restaurant or a street-side food stall, it's a good idea to get familiar with the names and descriptions of some of the popular Maldivian dishes. Here are a few examples:

Rihaakuru: a thick fish paste that is a staple in Maldivian cuisine, often used as a base for curries and sauces.

Mas Huni: a breakfast dish made of shredded smoked tuna, grated coconut, onions, and chili, served with paratha.

Masroshi: a savoury pastry filled with fish, coconut, onion, and curry leaves.

Gulha: a snack made of dough balls stuffed with spiced fish or vegetables.

Mas Riha: a fish curry made with coconut milk and spices, usually served with steamed rice or roshi (a type of unleavened flatbread).

2. Learn Some Basic Phrases

While English is spoken by many locals in urban areas and tourist hubs, you may encounter staff or vendors who have limited or no proficiency in the language. Therefore, it's helpful to know some basic phrases in Dhivehi, the official language of Maldives. Here are a few examples:

Assalaamu alaikum: Hello (literally "peace be upon you")

Haalu kihineh?: What do you have (to eat)?

Maagu kihineh?: What is this?

Fa ligai: Give it to me.

Kurin: Enough.

3. Consider Dietary Restrictions

If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, it's important to communicate them clearly to the restaurant or vendor. Many Maldivian dishes contain seafood, coconut milk, or spices, so be sure to ask about the ingredients before you order. Vegetarians and vegans may have fewer options, but some restaurants and cafes offer plant-based alternatives or can accommodate specific requests if given advance notice.

4. Be Prepared for Prices

As a tourist destination, Maldives can be quite expensive, and food is no exception. While street food and local markets tend to be more affordable, sit-down restaurants and resorts often charge premium prices for their menus. Keep in mind that taxes and service charges are usually added to the listed prices, so the total cost may be higher than expected. It's also a good idea to carry cash, as some smaller vendors may not accept credit cards or mobile payments.

5. Embrace the Local Flavours

Finally, one of the best things about ordering food in Maldives is the opportunity to try new flavours and combinations that you may not find anywhere else in the world. While it's okay to stick to familiar dishes or international cuisines if that's what you prefer, we encourage you to be open-minded and adventurous in your dining choices. Who knows – you might discover a new favourite dish or flavour that will stay with you long after you leave this beautiful country!

With these tips in mind, you're now ready to step out and explore the rich and diverse food scene of Maldives. Bon appétit, or as they say in Dhivehi: Randhihaa dhuvaheh!