Anushka Gautam
08-Jul-2025
Over a course of 4 days and two islands at the Residence Maldives, I fell in love with island time.
“She ran away to para-para-paradise…”
Coldplay’s lyrics looped through my mind as the plane began its descent over the Indian Ocean- a mosaic of turquoise waters, soft white sands, and swaying palms slowly coming into view. After a short domestic flight to Kooddoo and a scenic speedboat ride, I caught my first glimpse of paradise: The Residence Maldives. A sweeping tropical escape that unfolds across not one but two islands- Falhumaafushi and Dhigurah- connected by a one-kilometre private bridge suspended above the sea.
While I had envisioned lazy sun-soaked days and long walks along the shore, what truly lingered long after I returned was the exceptional culinary journey the property offered. If you're looking for where to eat and holiday in the Maldives, this is where you need to be!
The Residence Maldives, Falhumaafushi
Falhumaafushi is the quieter of the two islands, ideal for a romantic vacation. With only 94 beach and overwater villas, this part of the resort is ideal for those seeking a more peaceful luxury Maldives resort experience. Mornings were spent cycling along palm-lined paths, afternoons floating in my private pool, and evenings unwinding to the sound of the sea. And if you choose to stay here, here’s where and what you should be dining.
1. Starting the day at The Dining Room
If you’re someone who believes a great hotel breakfast sets the tone for the day, The Dining Room delivers. This beachfront all-day diner offers à la carte favourites and a generous buffet, with everything from tropical fruits and flaky pastries to Asian, Indian, and local Maldivian dishes – all accompanied by ocean views.
2. Fine Dining at The Falhumaa
One of the most memorable meals was at The Falhumaa, the resort’s stunning overwater restaurant located at the end of a 230-metre jetty above the reef. Showcasing French-inspired cuisine, the meal began with the beautifully plated Earth Basket, followed by the Poulet Sauté Chasseur, a comforting dish of Chicken thigh with Mushroom ragout and creamy Potato purée. A standout option is the Fruit de Mer à la Falhumaa, a decadent seafood platter featuring lobster, scallop, prawn, and more in a rich Antiboise sauce. For dessert, I chose the Basque cheesecake- easily one of the best I’ve ever tasted.
3. Dinner Under the Stars
Have you ever dined on a private island, barefoot in the sand, with nothing but the stars above and the sea around you? That’s exactly what my evening at Castaway Island felt like. The experience began with freshly baked kulcha paired with dips, followed by a spread of Khandvi rolls, semolina-crusted Beetroot kebabs, and mini pita pockets with Chicken tikka mousse. For mains, we were served the Paneer ravioli in a Saffron-kissed korma, Badami murgh malai, Murgh biryani and more. Dessert options included the Lavender & lime cheesecake.
(Private dining at Residence Maldives, Falhumaafushi)
4. Unwinding at The Library Bar & The Beach Bar
When I wasn’t dining or exploring, I found myself unwinding at The Library Bar, a quiet, elegant spot above the lobby with panoramic sea views, bookshelves, and a billiards table. On the other end of the spectrum, The Beach Bar is ideal if you wish to lounge by the pool with a tropical drink by your side.
The Residence Maldives, Dhigurah
A short ride (or walk) across the bridge will bring you to Dhigurah, the livelier, more expansive sibling island. With 173 villas, each with its own private pool, Dhigurah offers family-friendly energy and luxury. I spent my time enjoying ocean swims, relaxing at the Clarins spa, and exploring the multiple specialty restaurants, and here’s what you should try!
1. Savouring Cantonese classics at Li Bai
Amidst a peaceful garden setting, Li Bai delivers a contemporary take on classic Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant’s ambience is matched by its exquisite dishes. I started with Pan-fried chicken dumplings, followed by Golden butter cereal prawns and Stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts in a spicy sauce. The menu also features signatures like Linling roast duck and Maldivian pepper crabs.
2. A quiet Italian escape at Long Island
If you’re craving Italian, Long Island is the perfect spot. The restaurant serves up a refined Italian menu crafted with freshly grown herbs and rustic, wholesome ingredients. I loved the Insalata di Pomodori e Bocconcini, the Rigatoni Bolognese and the Pescato del Giorno, which featured Maldivian tuna with truffle fries and a citrus emulsion. And of course, I couldn’t leave without trying the tiramisu — light, creamy, and perfectly balanced.
3. A Garden-to-Table Experience at Earth Table
One of my favourite experiences on Dhigurah was at Earth Table, a garden-to-table concept that brings you closer to the land. The afternoon began with a guided walk through the Earth Basket vegetable garden, harvesting fresh herbs and learning about local Maldivian ingredients. I helped prepare a Smoked fish salad before watching the chef cook the main course, Fish wrapped in banana leaves and baked beneath the earth.
4. Lounging at Café Del Sol & The Beach Club
For casual poolside dining, Café Del Sol was my go-to. Set beside the water, it offers Mediterranean-inspired fare, a relaxed atmosphere, and even a dedicated kids’ menu. In the evening, The Beach Club comes alive with music, cocktails, and golden hour views- a lively space that perfectly captures the spirit of Dhigurah.
The Residence Maldives gave me more than a luxury holiday. It offered two distinct yet complementary islands, each with its own personality, rhythm, and flavour. Whether it was fine dining over the reef, barefoot dinners on a private island, or garden lunches made with ingredients I picked myself, every experience was memorable. If you're searching for a luxury Maldives resort where food, nature, and heartfelt hospitality all come together, this is it.
(As told to Neha Mehrotra)
