From Poolside Snacks to Fine Dining: Flavours for Every Taste at Ayada Maldives

Luxury means different things to different people. For some, it’s sipping vintage wine over a five-course meal. For others, it’s lounging by the pool with a cold beer and a wood-fired pizza. At Ayada Maldives, there’s no need to choose. The island’s dining scene is as relaxed or refined as you want it to be—offering something for every craving, every moment, and every mood.

Set across a private island in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Ayada is known for its laid-back luxury. The atmosphere is informal, yet polished. Guests are free to explore the island barefoot, but the food experience is anything but casual. With multiple restaurants, bars, and themed culinary nights, Ayada is among the few Maldivian resorts to offer such variety—each venue with its own distinct flavour and ambience.

If you’re after something refined, Ocean Breeze delivers elegant Mediterranean dining over the water. With its breezy terrace and panoramic sea views, it’s an ideal setting for sunset dinners and special occasions. The menu features fresh seafood, perfectly grilled meats, and European classics reimagined with island flair. Pair it with a bottle from the resort’s curated wine cellar, and you have a dining experience that rivals the finest city restaurants.

For a more relaxed vibe, Zero Degree is the social heart of the island. By day, it’s the go-to spot for poolside snacks and tropical drinks. By night, it transforms into a lively hub with DJ sets, live music, and casual bites like burgers, pizzas, and salads. Whether you're cooling off after a swim or staying up late with friends, this is where the rhythm of the island comes alive.

Those in search of bold, aromatic flavours will feel right at home at Kai. This restaurant takes guests on a journey through Southeast Asia, with dishes inspired by Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Indonesian cuisine. Think fragrant curries, tangy stir-fries, and beautifully plated dim sum—each dish prepared with authenticity and finesse.

Daily dining is centred around Magu, which means “street” in Maldivian, the island’s main restaurant, where an open-air setting and rotating nightly themes keep things interesting. From Maldivian seafood nights to Asian street food and Italian favourites, each evening offers a new culinary adventure. One of the most anticipated highlights is the Sunday Roast, a nod to British tradition complete with roast meats, gravy, and all the trimmings—served with a tropical twist, of course.

Guests on all-inclusive packages will find generous offerings throughout the day, while those seeking something more personalised can arrange private dining—be it a breakfast on the beach, a barbecue under the stars, or a candlelit dinner in their villa.

Ayada doesn’t impose structure on your holiday—it simply opens the door to choice. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or comfort food, you’ll find it served with care, creativity, and the kind of island warmth that makes every meal memorable.

Daniel Diosi