Tantalise your tastebuds with our list of top five Maldives dining experiences - courtesy of our Indian Ocean Product Manager, Vanessa Dean, who has recently returned from the islands.
1. Maldivian Mojitos
For some of the best mojitos in the Maldives, head to Senses Bar and Lounge at LUX* South Ari Atoll for pre-dinner cocktails. Take a seat at the double-sided bar and try one of over 20 different types of this classic rum-based cocktail - you have to try more than one, of course! For dinner, reserve a table at the beachfront Senses restaurant. The Chicken Tikka is well worth a try - expect an intense flavour with just the right amount of spice.
2. Sip wine by the water's edge
You know that amazing feeling of wiggling your toes in the sand? Well, imagine that whilst tasting fine wines and you get the Alizée restaurant at Constance Moofushi. Your personal sommelier will guide you through food and wine pairings - the recommendations are spot on. One of the drawbacks of dining under the stars is that whilst the setting is uber-romantic, the menus can be hard to read by candlelight. Not so here. Ingeniously, the menus are backlit so there's no need to reach into your bag for the specs you've left in your room!
3. Above and below the waves
Niyama Private Islands is the go-to place for gourmands in the Maldives. Reached only by boat and 500 metres out to sea, head to EDGE for sensational sunset views, a chilled out ambience and sophisticated dishes. End your evening with a cocktail under the waves at SUBSIX, the underwater music lounge - time it right and you can attend the Glow Party, complimentary UV body paint provided. Dance until dawn and you'll be shimmying rather than sleeping with the fishes - unbeatable!
4. Perfect pre-dinner drinks
You are certainly spoilt for choice and venues to watch the sun go down from at Constance Halaveli, however, one of the best options is Jing Bar - a glass of bubbly, relaxing tunes and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Perfection. After dinner, retreat to your water villa for a late night swim in your private plunge pool to burn off some calories before drifting asleep to the sounds of the ocean. UPDATE: Opt for the new all-inclusive dining option to make the most of the full range of international cuisine served in a variety of venues. Also includes a complimentary minibar and excursion - a great choice for family holidays to the Maldives.
5. Dhoni dining
However and wherever you want to dine, there is a multitude of flexible options available at Baros, Maldives. Savour fine wines from the glass panelled cellar whilst sampling degustation menus in the iconic Lighthouse Restaurant or head to Sails Bar for a tipple and live music. A highlight, Baros boasts its own traditional dhoni - Nooma - for the ultimate private dining experience. Head out for a sunset cruise and have a romantic meal prepared according to your preferences by a personal chef and served discreetly by a personal waiter.
