Hulhumalé has the most diverse food scene of any location in the Maldives outside of Malé itself, and in some ways it surpasses the capital for variety and value. The island's cosmopolitan population has spawned a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries serving cuisines from across South Asia and beyond, making it an excellent place to eat well on a budget.
Restaurant Variety
The range of restaurants on Hulhumalé is impressive for a relatively young island. You can find Maldivian food, Indian restaurants serving both North and South Indian cuisines, Sri Lankan rice and curry shops, Bangladeshi eateries, Thai restaurants, Chinese food, pizzerias, burger joints, and cafes serving international fare. This variety is driven by the diverse population, and competition keeps prices reasonable. Most restaurants are concentrated along the main roads in Phase 1, with a growing number opening in Phase 2 as the new development matures. Prices are generally lower than in Malé and significantly lower than resort prices.
Maldivian Food
Several restaurants and small eateries serve traditional Maldivian dishes. Garudhiya, the clear fish broth that is the national dish, is widely available, along with mas huni (shredded smoked fish with coconut and onion), roshi flatbread, and various fish curries. Local cafes called hotaa serve short eats throughout the day, including bajiya (fish-filled pastries), gulha (fish balls), and masroshi (stuffed flatbread). For visitors who want to try authentic Maldivian home cooking, Hulhumalé's local eateries offer a more accessible introduction than the limited options on smaller islands.
Cafes and Coffee
Hulhumalé has seen a notable growth in cafe culture, with several modern cafes serving espresso-based drinks, fresh juices, smoothies, and light meals. These cafes tend to attract a younger crowd and have become popular socialising spots. Some offer outdoor seating and wifi, making them pleasant places to spend an hour or two. The cafe scene reflects the modern, urban character of Hulhumalé and offers a stark contrast to the simple tea shops found on traditional local islands.
Compared to Other Local Islands
The dining options on Hulhumalé vastly exceed what you will find on most guesthouse islands in the Maldives. On a typical local island, you might have a choice of two or three small restaurants serving similar menus of Maldivian and basic international food. On Hulhumalé, you can eat a different cuisine every meal for a week without repeating. This makes it a good place to satisfy any cravings before heading to an outer island where options are limited, or to enjoy a final diverse meal before flying home. Note that alcohol is not served in local restaurants on Hulhumalé, as it is not available on any inhabited Maldivian island outside of licensed resort premises.