Wh en most people think of the Maldives, crystal-clear waters and long stretches of pristine beaches come to mind. While experiencing the landscapes and nature of the Maldives is a must-see while visiting, there’s one thing you can’t forget about, and that’s the flavorful Maldives breakfast .
In this article, we’ll take a look at the unique blend of local and international cuisine that’s offered throughout the islands. We’ll also touch on the famous Maldives floating breakfast, a talked-about activity that you need to try.
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What is the Common Breakfast in the Maldives?
Good question! Each country offers a diverse take on food, and the Maldives is no exception. You’ll wake up each morning to a simple yet delicious spread of traditional foods that have been around these islands for decades.
Though the Maldives also provides an array of options for international foods and blends from different cultures (even American!), trying the traditional breakfasts is something you can’t miss out on.
Keep in mind, since Maldives is a Muslim country, their food is almost all Halal, meaning it’s lawful in the country and doesn’t contain pork. You won’t regret trying it though, especially those who like to experience something new.
As travelers ourselves, we encourage you to broaden your horizons and give your tastebuds something new to crave.Let’s cover the common breakfast dishes that can be found in the Maldives. We recommend trying all of them, of course, but you can also find the Maldivian breakfast that stands out to you and make it a point to eat while you’re traveling.
1. Mas Huni
Made from a blend of tuna, onion, coconut, and chili, Mas Huni is a staple Maldivian breakfast. As a seaside country, you’ll often find a variety of seafood integrated into the cuisine. Most Maldivians start their day with Mas Huni spread onto freshly baked Roshi flatbread, completed with a sweetened hot tea.
We guarantee that once you try this well-known cultural dish, you’ll be back for more.
2. Roshi
As mentioned, Roshi is often paired with Mas Huni during the breakfast hour. It’s a flatbread that’s usually served warm and can be eaten at any meal. To make Roshi, it’s a simple mixture of flour, oil, salt, and water, but coconut and even seafood can be added for extra flavor.
Our mouth is watering just thinking about it!
3. Masroshi
Yet another traditional Maldives breakfast staple, Masroshi is a chapati stuffed with smoked tuna and coconut. You may be picking up on a pattern at this point, and you’d be right– the Maldivians love their fish and coconut!
This dish, in particular, adds an extra layer of flavor to the curry leaves and spices that are cooked in.
4. Saagu Bondibai (Sago Pudding)
Sago is a popular ingredient among Maldivians, and you’ll find out why when you try it. This pudding combines sago with warmed coconut milk and condensed milk, creating a creamy texture that will leave your stomach settled and your heart happy.
The cardamom and rose essences make this pudding even better. It’s one of those dishes that you won’t forget.
Maldivian Long Eats Vs. Short Eats
When visiting this country, it’s important to know that there’s a distinction between two types of meals, which applies to breakfast as well. Both are common, but it’s ultimately up to what you’re looking for in a meal.
- Long Eats: In a typical Maldivian local restaurant, a “long eats” meal is simply how it sounds. It’s a large meal that takes a relatively long time to eat. These meals generally consist of rice or roshi along with a main course.
- Short Eats: Opposite of long eats, short eats are typically enjoyed at a local cafe or tea shop that allows the guest to sample a variety of sweet and savory dishes. The savory dishes include seafood dishes, but the sweet dishes, which are more typical to indulge in during the breakfast hour, consist of rice pudding, bananas, and other fruits.
Maldives Breakfast Prices
It’s always a common question of how expensive a country is when going to travel there. Luckily, the Maldives food price is often cheaper than many other areas in the world, including the United States. They use the Maldivian Rufiyaa as their currency, and breakfast costs at a local cafe can be as low as $3.
Maldives restaurant prices may fluctuate depending on the type of food you’re eating and how fancy the place is. Food in Maldives resorts will obviously be more expensive, but even then, it won’t break the bank as other resorts around the world may.
And many resorts offer All-Inclusive packages where breakfast is included in the total price of your stay.
Floating Breakfast: The Must-Try Experience
Until now, we’ve covered the best Maldives food for breakfast. But where do you eat it? One of the most popular and fun experiences in Maldives is to enjoy breakfast in a pool, which means eating while relaxing in a private pool.
It’s a unique activity that’s offered at many resorts, but it’s one that you certainly have to try at least once.
Visit a resort such as Kuredu, which offers you a private pool and floating breakfast, or Ayada Maldives, which presents a colorful aesthetic display to make your breakfast experience even better.
Simply relax in the pool as your breakfast floats on a giant buoyant tray. Don’t forget to take pictures!
As for costs, some resorts may charge extra for this breakfast, while others might include the cost in an all-inclusive package. These are often more expensive, getting up to $140 and even $170, but you can find cheaper or higher-end floating breakfasts as well.
Is the money worth it? Only you’ll be able to decide that, but it’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Maldives Resorts with Breakfast in Pool
Here are some of the resorts in Maldives that offer floating breakfast:
| Resort | Price per 2 people |
|---|---|
| Kuredu | $190 |
| Como Maalifushi | $86 |
| Fushifaru | Inquire |
| Amilla | $89 |
| Coco Bodu Hithi | Inquire |
| Baros | Inquire |
| Dusit Thani | Inquire |
| Hurawalhi | $280 |
| Komandoo | $150 |
| Kudadoo | Inquire |
| Anantara Veli | Inquire |
| Constance | Inquire |
Best Places to Eat Breakfast in Maldives
So, you’re on your way to Maldives, and we’ve convinced you to partake in a unique, traditional Maldives breakfast experience. Throughout Maldives, you’ll find cafes and restaurants everywhere, but which are the best ones?
Here are a few that we recommend.
Seagull Cafe – This cafe is perfect for a relaxing morning pastry and tea. They also serve ice cream in all types of flavors and are located in a wooden, tropical-style building. Stop by for a quick bite to eat before going on your daily adventure in Maldives.
Family Room Cafe, Hulhamale – Here, we have another cafe, and they’re known for their coffee. They offer drip coffee and use Ethiopian coffee beans. You can sit facing the beach for a pleasant morning breakfast experience.
Fine Bake by Suzy – We’re ending this list with a favorite bakery that serves fresh donuts and breads. Another perk of the place is its cheap prices and friendly staff. If you’re looking for a cute breakfast bakery, we recommend this place as the one to try.
Experience a True Maldivian Breakfast
From pastries and coffee to traditional roshi and mas huni, Maldives is known for its flavorful cuisine. It’s always fun to find a local cafe to call your favorite while you’re there, but we also recommend getting out there and trying different foods.
Food is a deep part of the culture, so you’ll get to know the country better by participating in their meals. We hope you take our Maldives breakfast advice and enjoy your stay.
Good morning and happy eating!
FAQ
What is the common breakfast in Maldives?
The common breakfast of Maldives consists of mas huni, roshi, and black tea. They also sometimes eat pastries and drink coffee as well. Traditional breakfasts often feature coconut and seafood.
What is the Maldivian floating breakfast?
The Maldivian floating breakfast is the experience of eating from a floating tray in a private pool. You can find many of these types of breakfasts at local resorts. It’s fun, relaxing, and delicious!
Is Maldivian food expensive?
No, fortunately not! Of course, it depends on where you’re buying food and what type. A local cafe can cost as low as 3 USD, but a floating breakfast in a luxury resort could be upwards of 150 USD. Most traditional breakfasts are relatively inexpensive, though.
How much is the Maldives floating breakfast?
It depends, as do most things. The Maldives floating breakfast is often a bit on the expensive side, starting at around $50-$70. This experience can cost upwards of $200 though, but that depends on what’s included in the breakfast, the presentation, and the resort it’s offered at.
Where can I experience a Maldives floating breakfast?
Many resorts offer floating breakfasts. Be sure to do your research in locating a good resort or hotel that provides a quality floating breakfast for an affordable price. There are places all over the island, so you have many choices.
