Hotel Anantara Veli: 9 Gourmet Dining Spots to Indulge In
Tucked away in the Maldives’ serene turquoise waters lies a true culinary haven—Hotel Anantara Veli Maldives Resort. This adults-only luxury resort is not only known for its romantic overwater villas and tranquil ambiance but also for its exceptional gastronomic experiences. Whether you’re craving exotic Maldivian flavors, fresh seafood, or international cuisine with a twist, Anantara Veli has something to delight every palate.
From floating breakfasts to sandbank dinners, this article unveils 9 gourmet dining spots you simply must indulge in during your stay at Anantara Veli—each offering a unique culinary journey unlike any other in the Maldives.
1. Origami: A Modern Japanese Marvel
Origami is Anantara Veli’s signature Japanese restaurant offering a sleek, contemporary dining atmosphere by the lagoon. As the sun sets, the open-air venue transforms into an elegant showcase of teppanyaki grilling, fresh sushi, and robata-style cooking.
Signature dishes include wagyu beef, tuna tataki, and yellowtail sashimi, all prepared with precision and flair. You can sit at the teppanyaki table to enjoy a live cooking show, or opt for a private, romantic table overlooking the water.
2. Baan Huraa: Authentic Thai Overwater Experience
Situated between Anantara Veli and Dhigu, Baan Huraa is one of the Maldives’ finest Thai restaurants. Built on stilts above a coral reef, the restaurant features traditional Thai architecture and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
The menu is a delightful mix of spicy curries, aromatic stir-fries, and classic Thai street food. Try the green papaya salad, tom yum goong, and the massaman curry, all bursting with bold flavors and authentic ingredients flown in from Thailand.
3. 73 Degrees: Beachfront Breakfasts & Themed Dinners
73 Degrees offers laid-back beachfront dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. In the morning, it hosts an elaborate international breakfast buffet with live cooking stations, tropical fruits, fresh juices, and local Maldivian delicacies.
By night, the venue transforms into a seafood-focused dinner spot with themed nights including lobster feasts, grilled catch-of-the-day, and international BBQs. The open-air setting and warm sea breeze enhance the casual, romantic vibe.
4. Cumin: Indian Flavors with Island Soul
Located at Anantara Dhigu, and accessible to Anantara Veli guests, Cumin specializes in regional Indian cuisine—from North India’s robust tandoori flavors to the coconut-rich curries of the South.
Enjoy dishes like butter chicken, paneer tikka, and lamb rogan josh paired with freshly baked naan. The open-air setting, warm colors, and Indian spices create an exotic dining journey right on the beach.
5. Aqua: Poolside Bites & Sunset Cocktails
Perfect for a light meal or refreshing cocktail, Aqua is Anantara Veli’s relaxed poolside bar and lounge. Whether you’re swimming or sunbathing, you can enjoy gourmet snacks like freshly grilled satay, ceviche, and artisan sliders.
The drinks menu is equally impressive—featuring signature cocktails, mocktails, and a curated list of wines and craft beers. Don’t miss their Maldivian coconut mojito at sunset—it’s a guest favorite.
6. Sea.Fire.Salt.: Ocean-to-Table Seafood Dining
One of the most iconic dining experiences shared with Anantara Dhigu, Sea.Fire.Salt. lives up to its name by offering fresh seafood, flame-grilled meats, and artisanal salts from around the world.
The restaurant’s specialty is its salt-aged beef, Maldivian lobster, and catch-of-the-day options, all cooked to perfection and served oceanside. The chef may even present the salt tray tableside, explaining the flavor nuances of Himalayan pink, black lava, and smoked sea salts.
7. Dining by Design: Your Own Private Restaurant
Nothing says luxury like a private dining experience curated just for you. Dining by Design allows guests to create a personalized menu and choose an unforgettable setting—on a deserted sandbank, private deck, or beach cabana.
Accompanied by a personal chef and butler, this gourmet adventure is perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or proposals. From candlelit seafood dinners to sunrise champagne breakfasts, the sky’s the limit.
8. In-Villa Dining: Ultimate Privacy with Gourmet Perks
For those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their villa, in-villa dining at Anantara Veli is a feast in itself. From floating breakfasts delivered to your private pool to multi-course dinners under the stars, this service redefines room service.
Whether it’s lobster thermidor, vegan platters, or Maldivian reef fish curry, you’ll experience gourmet quality in your own space, complete with white-glove service and personalized plating.
9. Floating Breakfast: Instagrammable Indulgence
The floating breakfast is one of the resort’s most photographed experiences—and for good reason. Served on a custom tray that floats in your private pool or plunge bath, this lavish meal includes champagne, tropical fruits, pastries, eggs Benedict, and more.
It’s a surreal way to begin your day in paradise, combining indulgence, style, and serenity. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon or just treating yourself, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
10. The Spice Spoons Cooking Class: Become a Maldivian Chef
If eating gourmet isn’t enough and you want to create it yourself, Anantara Veli’s Spice Spoons cooking class is the perfect immersive activity. Led by the resort’s skilled chefs, you’ll learn how to prepare traditional Maldivian dishes using local herbs, spices, and seafood.
The experience includes a visit to the herb garden, hands-on cooking, and a chef-guided tasting session. You’ll also leave with recipes and an apron—perfect souvenirs from your culinary vacation.
Conclusion: A Culinary Paradise Awaits at Anantara Veli
From ocean-fresh seafood and spicy Thai cuisine to floating breakfasts and private sandbank dinners, Anantara Veli Maldives offers one of the most diverse and luxurious gourmet dining experiences in the Indian Ocean. Every bite here is thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and delivered with heartfelt Maldivian hospitality.
Whether you’re a foodie traveler, a romantic couple, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, the culinary scene at Anantara Veli will take your taste buds on a journey around the world—without ever leaving the island. It’s not just a vacation. It’s an epicurean escape you’ll cherish forever.
FAQs About Dining at Hotel Anantara Veli
1. Are dining options included in the all-inclusive package?
Yes, Anantara Veli offers meal plans such as half board, full board, and all-inclusive packages. These typically include meals at selected restaurants, though premium items and certain specialty dining like “Dining by Design” may cost extra.
2. Do I need to make reservations for restaurants?
It’s highly recommended, especially for Origami, Baan Huraa, and Dining by Design. The resort’s concierge can assist in securing reservations before or during your stay.
3. Can guests with dietary restrictions dine comfortably?
Absolutely. The resort accommodates vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and other dietary needs. Simply inform the staff in advance, and the chefs will tailor your meals accordingly.
4. Can guests from Anantara Dhigu and Naladhu visit these dining venues?
Yes, Anantara Veli shares some dining venues with Anantara Dhigu and Naladhu Maldives, allowing for cross-resort culinary experiences. However, Veli remains adults-only, so access from other resorts is limited to adult guests.
5. Is room service available 24/7?
Yes, in-villa dining is available 24 hours a day, offering an extensive menu that ranges from breakfast platters to gourmet dinners, snacks, and drinks.
Also read : Busiest Time: 10 Common Travel Delays and How to Avoid Them
