Maldives tops 2025 World Culinary Awards for heritage cuisine
The island nation’s culinary scene earns global acclaim as chefs blend coastal tradition with world-class innovation
MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — The Maldives has secured top honors at the World Culinary Awards 2025, earning global recognition as the World’s Best Destination for Heritage Cuisine — a milestone that reinforces the island nation’s growing stature as a leader in gastronomic tourism.
According to PSM News, the awards spotlighted the Maldives’ rich culinary identity, where age-old recipes, fresh local produce, and contemporary dining experiences converge to define its tourism brand. The country triumphed over Germany, Peru, Seychelles, and Singapore in the global category, signaling the international appeal of its distinct coastal flavors and cultural fusion.
At the regional level, the Maldives also dominated the Indian Ocean categories — winning titles for Best Culinary Destination and Best Culinary City Destination for Male’. These achievements highlight the country’s success in elevating both resort and community-based dining scenes, from high-end restaurants to traditional eateries.
The Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies at the Maldives National University was named Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary Training Institution 2025, a recognition of the nation’s investments in local talent development and hospitality education.
The country’s leading dining establishments were also honored — Symphony Restaurant as Indian Ocean’s Best Landmark Restaurant, Hadaba at SO/ Maldives as Maldives’ Best Hotel Restaurant, and H2O Restaurant as Maldives’ Best Culinary Experience.
Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) Chief Executive Officer Ibrahim Shiuree described the honors as a reflection of the Maldives’ ability to balance cultural heritage with modern culinary innovation. “From heritage cuisine to world-class dining, the Maldives continues to evolve as a destination where gastronomy plays an integral role in the visitor experience,” he said.
The recognition comes as the Maldives continues to receive global acclaim for its tourism and sustainability initiatives. The island nation is also shortlisted for World’s Leading Destination 2025 and World’s Leading Green Destination 2025 at the World Travel Awards, underscoring its expanding influence in the global hospitality industry.
The World Culinary Awards, a sister event to the World Travel Awards, celebrates excellence across the global dining and hospitality sectors, honoring destinations and establishments that set new benchmarks in culinary achievement.
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