I love trying new tastes everywhere I go. That’s why I didn’t miss the opportunity to explore the local delicacies of the Maldives when I visited this summer. Except the amazing main dishes and delicious light lunch options, I also enjoyed the local desserts and drinks! Some of the best were served at the Gallery Restaurant and Sea Breeze Cafe Bandos in Bandos Island Resort.
Here are my favorite sweets, fruits, and cocktails of the Maldives.
Desserts
One very interesting dessert I tried at the Gallery Restaurant was the siopao hot bun. The buns were green and sweet, filled with pistachio paste. I learned that there are also many savory variations of the siopao: with chicken or pork meat, seafood, and vegetables. (Check out my full review)
I also loved the so-called “Heaven” cake, which was made with white, dark, and milk chocolate and topped with dried fruits. Perfect for a chocolate-lover like me!
Tropical fruits
To me, the best part of visiting a tropical island is getting to try the local fruits! I tasted many fruits for the first time, but even the ones I knew from Bulgaria tasted so fresh and different. I especially liked the papaya, dragon fruit, starfruit, maracuya, pomegranate, and guava they served at the Gallery Restaurant.
Drinks and cocktails
The Maldives is a Muslim country and as is customary in Muslim countries, locals do not drink alcohol, however, most tourists do. The best thing about these cocktails is that they are made with freshly squeezed fruit juice which makes them light and refreshing. The tropical fresh coconut cocktail with white rum and maracuya juice at the Sea Breeze Cafe Bandos was my favorite. You can also try amazing margaritas and sangrias there.
During the night time, you can enjoy the music of the local band at the Sea Breeze Cafe Bandos. (Read my full review).
On a hot day, my friends and I cooled off with a beer from the resort’s pool bar. But if you wish to have something non-alcoholic, grab a delicious milkshake from the bar and leisurely sunbathe by the water.
The Maldives is a very romantic destination. It gets dark around 6:30 pm local time which allows you to marvel at the sunset while enjoying a delicious dinner. If you have a special occasion like an anniversary or a birthday, or you just want to feel like in the movies, the staff can also prepare a decorated table especially for you!
Do you have a favorite dessert or cocktail? What’s a great place to have them in your area? Tell us in the comments below.
