Introduction

I had done a lot of research prior to arriving at the Conrad Maldives and made reservations at Mandhoo Spa Restaurant and Sunset Grill for dinner. I was keen on the champagne and lobster beach dining event, but wasn’t sure I’d be up for it on the evening of my arrival so I didn’t pre-book it, but the Conrad was happy to arrange it on arrival.

Be forewarned: The food is very expensive. It’s something you should come to terms with ahead of arrival. You’re on an island so everything needs to be imported. The food is all fresh and of very good quality. I’d say it’s on par with what you’d find at the best restaurants in New York or London. I recommend filling up on breakfast and then going to afternoon tea and happy hour to tide you over until dinner. This strategy worked for me as I wasn’t hungry between meals.

I’m not a restaurant critic so I’ll let the pictures do most of the talking.

Breakfast

As a Hilton Honors Diamond Member I was entitled to free breakfast at either Vilu Restaurant on the quiet island or Atoll Market on the main island. Given Vilu’s close proximity to my villa it’s where I ate 3 out of 4 days. However, I dined at Atoll Market the morning before my adventure snorkeling trip.

Breakfast is served buffet style, but you’re also able to order a variety of sweet and savory options à la carte. You’re also able to order coffee, juice, sparkling wine and water all free of charge.

Cocktails at the Quiet Zone Bar

The Quiet Zone is the adults only casual dining restaurant and bar on the quiet island. They offer waiter service at the pool area as well.

Drinks Menu – Here

Dining Menu – Here

I sampled the Cucumber and Rose Gin and Tonic, which featured Hendricks infused with Organic Cucumber, Elderflower & Rose petals as well as the M47 Gin and Tonic, which featured Monkey 47 Gin, Lemongrass, Pomello, Berries, Hibiscus and Candied Ginger. They were both delicious. The drinks were accompanied by spiced almonds served in a ceramic ramekin.

Champagne and Lobster Night

Every Saturday, the Conrad offers a seafood feast, featuring Maldivian lobsters and shellfish caught off the resort’s shores. The evening is complemented by free flowing Ruinart Champagne and live entertainment.

The food was excellent and the waiters never let your champagne glass go empty.

Mandhoo Spa Restaurant

Mandhoo is the Conrad’s “healthy” restaurant option. The menu has vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free options if you’re so inclined.

Menu – Here

I started with the warm calamari and sea bass on plancha, asparagus and rocket salad, yoghurt and tangerine dressing. Apologies for the blurry picture.

I then moved on to the mains. I had 1) the pan fried filet of sea bass, rosset potato purée with wasabi, cucumber and mango chutney with lemon balm and 2) reef fish coated in japanese dried rice seasoning, bokchoy and adzuki beans, soy sesame and ginger sauce. Both were very nice.

Sunset Grill

Menu – Here

The Sunset Grill was my favorite dining experience at the Conrad Maldives. You get to dine above patches of coral while the occasional reef shark swims by. Pro tip: Ask to be seated outside. The views are incredible.

I asked for a reservation at a time that would allow me to enjoy the sunset. They booked me a table at 6:30pm, which was a bit early, but I was the first one at the restaurant, which gave me a choice of outdoor seating.

The meal started with an amuse-bouche of soup and some delicious warm bread.

For an appetizer I selected the sizzling chili salt calamari featuring Szechuan spice, ginger, tendrils and chili citrus marmalade.

I then moved on to the 1) Maldivian Lobster featuring cajun spice, potato purée and asparagus picada and 2) Sesame Sea Scallops featuring wakame, watermelon lime salsa and ponzu mayonnaise. They were simply phenomenal.

Afternoon Tea / Happy Hour

Afternoon Tea is offered daily from 4-5PM at Vilu. Offerings include coffee, biscuits & cookies, cakes, scones and rolls. It’s free for Hilton Gold and Diamond members. Even those who don’t ordinarily partake in carb fests have an appreciation for the the delicious scones and jam during Afternoon Tea.

Happy Hour for Hilton Gold and Diamond members is also at Vilu Bar from 4:30-5:30PM. House wine and cocktails are complementary along with appetizers. The gin and tonics are surprisingly strong and the waiters are more than happy to bring you several.

Overall Verdict (Food and Beverage)

First Class Giraffe Approved

You wont go hungry at the Conrad Maldives. The food is excellent, which almost justifies the high prices. I was only able to visit a few of the restaurants at the Conrad and can’t wait to try the rest during a future visit.