International acclaim continues to grow for the Maldives as the destination secures three high-profile nominations at the World Culinary Awards 2025. These nominations spotlight the Maldives’ rich gastronomic heritage, vibrant island cuisine, and the culinary appeal of its capital city, Malé. The annual awards celebrate excellence across the global culinary industry, and voting is now open to the public until 15 August 2025.
This year, the Maldives has been nominated in the following categories:
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World’s Best Destination for Heritage Cuisine 2025
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Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary Destination 2025
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Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary City Destination 2025 (for Malé)
These nominations reflect the country’s growing reputation as a unique and authentic food destination in the global tourism market. With centuries-old recipes, bold island flavours, and an evolving culinary landscape, the Maldives offers a dining experience that is deeply rooted in tradition while continuously embracing innovation.
Culinary Heritage of the Maldives
Maldivian cuisine is shaped by the archipelago’s seafaring history, geographic location, and cultural fusion over generations. Influences from Indian, Sri Lankan, Arab, and East African culinary traditions have enriched the local food scene, making it both diverse and distinctive. From the iconic mas huni (tuna with coconut and onion) served at breakfast to garudhiya (a traditional fish broth) and kulhi boakibaa (spicy fish cakes), every dish tells a story of cultural resilience and community identity.
This dedication to preserving and promoting traditional recipes has earned the Maldives a nomination for World’s Best Destination for Heritage Cuisine 2025. The category honours countries that have successfully maintained their culinary roots while offering visitors a rich cultural experience through food.
Click here to vote for the Maldives as the World’s Best Destination for Heritage Cuisine 2025!
World’s Best Destination for Heritage Cuisine 2025 « World Culinary Awards
Celebrating the Flavours of the Indian Ocean
The Maldives is also nominated for Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary Destination 2025, a category that recognises outstanding regional destinations offering world-class dining experiences. Visitors to the Maldives enjoy a wide range of gastronomic options—from ocean-to-table seafood dishes to high-end resort cuisine, curated by internationally renowned chefs. The fresh produce, abundant seafood, tropical fruits, and use of local spices come together to create an unforgettable island food journey.
Click here to vote for the Maldives as the Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary Destination 2025!
Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary Destination 2025 « World Culinary Awards
Spotlight on Malé’s Urban Dining Scene
Adding to the national nominations, the city of Malé is competing for Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary City Destination 2025. Often overlooked in favour of its island resorts, Malé offers visitors a window into authentic Maldivian urban life. Its culinary scene is an eclectic mix of traditional eateries, vibrant tea shops, contemporary cafés, and specialty restaurants that reflect the city’s diverse population and evolving tastes.
From bustling fish markets to modern dining lounges serving fusion cuisine, Malé provides a compact yet immersive food experience that complements the tranquil resort life many visitors associate with the Maldives.
Click here to vote for Malé as the Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary City Destination 2025!
Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary City Destination 2025 « World Culinary Awards
About the World Culinary Awards
Established as a sister programme to the prestigious World Travel Awards, the World Culinary Awards recognises exceptional contributions to the culinary industry on a global scale. The winners are determined through an open voting process that invites participation from hospitality professionals, culinary experts, and international travellers. Each nomination is a mark of excellence, and a win at this level significantly enhances a destination’s global tourism appeal.
Voting for the 2025 edition is now live and will remain open until 15 August 2025. These awards not only celebrate culinary artistry but also play an essential role in promoting cultural heritage and tourism development through gastronomy.
Support Maldives by Casting Your Vote
Tourism supporters, culinary enthusiasts, and Maldivian well-wishers around the world are encouraged to cast their votes in all three categories. By participating, you help raise international awareness of the Maldives’ exceptional food culture and further strengthen its status as a premium destination for travel and culinary exploration.
Celebrate the Maldives and its vibrant culinary culture by casting your vote and sharing the links with friends, family, and fellow travellers. Help shine a light on the Sunny Side of Life through the global culinary stage.
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