The Maldives is celebrated worldwide for its turquoise lagoons, pristine beaches, and luxurious overwater villas but there’s another side to this island paradise that many visitors miss: its rich and distinctive cuisine.
Rooted in centuries of island life, Maldivian (Dhivehi) cuisine tells a story of resourcefulness and flavor. Built around three key ingredients fresh tuna, coconut, and starches like rice or breadfruit the local food is simple yet deeply satisfying.
For travelers seeking to experience the true culture of the Maldives, tasting these traditional dishes is just as essential as snorkeling in the coral reefs or watching the sunset from a dhoni.
Here are eight unique and famous Maldivian dishes every visitor must try each revealing a different flavor of the islands:
1. Mas Huni — The Quintessential Maldivian Breakfast
Start your mornings like a local. Mas Huni is a refreshing mix of finely shredded smoked tuna, grated coconut, onions, chili, and a squeeze of lime, served with warm roshi (flatbread) and a cup of sweet black tea.
It’s light, flavorful, and often enjoyed while watching the sunrise — a ritual that connects travelers to the calm rhythm of island life.
2. Garudhiya — The Heartwarming National Fish Broth
No Maldivian household is complete without garudhiya. This clear, aromatic broth made by gently simmering tuna with water, salt, and sometimes spices is a daily staple.
Served with steamed rice, lime, chilies, and side dishes, it’s comfort in its purest form — perfect after a day of diving or island hopping.
3. Mas Baiy — Flavorful Tuna Rice
If garudhiya is soulful, mas baiy is homely. Literally meaning “fish rice,” this dish cooks rice together with tuna, onions, turmeric, and spices, infusing every grain with the ocean’s flavor.
Traditionally eaten with hands, it’s often served with a salad, fried greens, and rihaakuru (a rich fish paste) — making it a favorite during family lunches and local feasts.
4. Mas Riha — Fragrant Tuna Curry
Maldivian curry is distinct from its South Asian cousins. Mas Riha is made with diced tuna simmered in a fragrant blend of spices, coconut milk, and onions.
Eaten with rice or roshi, it’s a beautiful way to explore the Maldivian use of spices — gentle yet aromatic — making it approachable even for those new to curry.
5. Kandu Kukulhu — The Festive Tuna Roll
Kandu Kukulhu, which translates to “chicken of the sea,” is a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Tuna fillets are rolled with a spiced paste, tied with coconut leaf strips, and slow-cooked in coconut milk.
It’s a celebratory dish, often prepared for special occasions, and showcases the craftsmanship of Maldivian cooking.
6. Hanaakuri Boava - Spiced Octopus Curry
For the adventurous foodie, Hanaakuri Boava is a must-try. Tender octopus is braised in curry leaves, garlic, onions, chili, and coconut oil, creating a rich and deeply spiced curry.
It’s a dish that reflects the Maldivian connection to the sea " beyond tuna" and is often found in local eateries away from resort menus
7. Short Eats ( Hedhi-kaa ) Bite-Sized Local Delights
Stroll through Malé or a local island café in the late afternoon, and you’ll be greeted by trays of short eats — small savory snacks that locals enjoy with tea.
Gulha: bite-sized balls stuffed with tuna, coconut, and chili, then deep-fried until golden.
Masroshi: tuna and coconut-filled flatbread, pan-fried to perfection.
Bis Keemiya: a Maldivian take on samosas, filled with tuna, cabbage, or egg.
These snacks are perfect for an authentic tea-time experience after exploring the islands.
8. Bondibaiy, Sweet Celebrations
No Maldivian feast is complete without Bondibaiy, a coconut-rich rice pudding flavored with cardamom and pandan.
Served during festivals, weddings, and Eid celebrations, this creamy dessert is a taste of Maldivian hospitality sweet, fragrant, and made to share.
A Culinary Journey Through Tourism
Maldivian cuisine is more than just food; it’s a living expression of island culture. In recent years, culinary tourism has become an emerging trend in the Maldives, as more travelers seek authentic experiences beyond luxury resorts.
Local cafés, guesthouses, and community tourism initiatives now offer food tours, traditional cooking classes, and “eat with locals” experiences, allowing visitors to discover the flavors that locals grew up with.
Whether you’re enjoying Mas Huni by the beach at dawn, savoring spicy Hanaakuri Spicy Boava in a bustling island café, or learning to roll Kandu Kukulhu from a local chef, each dish offers a meaningful connection to Maldivian life.
Final Thought
The Maldives isn’t just a feast for the eyes , it’s a feast for the senses. So on your next trip, step beyond the buffet line. Taste the islands, one dish at a time, and let the rich flavors of Dhivehi cuisine become a highlight of your Maldivian adventure.