Tuna, coconut, chilli and rice are at the heart of traditional Maldivian cooking, so seafood naturally features heavily. But one of the things Lottie enjoys about eating in the Maldives is the variety. You can have a really traditional Maldivian meal one night and something completely different the next.

Maldivian Tuna Burger - The Retreat, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau

“I love this because it’s a fun take on such a classic Maldivian ingredient. I’d mention it to clients who want to try something local without necessarily opting for a traditional curry; it’s an easy introduction to Maldivian flavours.”

Lobster Bisque - The Lighthouse, Baros

“This is one I’d save for a special evening. The Lighthouse is such a beautiful setting, and having the lobster bisque there makes the whole experience feel that little bit more memorable."

Tuna Ceviche with Mango - Shoreline Grill, Milaidhoo

“If a client loves fresh seafood, this would be high on my list. It’s light and fresh, and perfect for a relaxed lunch by the water.”

Maldivian Curry Feast - Ba’Theli, Milaidhoo

“This is probably the one I’d talk about most. Ba’Theli is built like three traditional Maldivian sailing boats, sitting out in the lagoon, so the setting is incredible. The food is inspired by the Maldivian Spice Route, so it’s a great recommendation for clients who want their dining experience to feel connected to the destination".

Sri Lanka is one of those destinations where I think food should genuinely be part of the itinerary. The cuisine changes as you travel around the island, from seafood along the coast to Jaffna specialities in the north and the tea culture of the hill country. That regional variety also gives agents plenty of opportunities to build food-led experiences into a wider Sri Lankan itinerary.

Prawn Curry, Liyawela, - Uga Ulagalla

“Sri Lanka does curry so well, and a good prawn curry is one of the dishes I’d always recommend. It’s rich, full of flavour and a great choice for clients who want to experience the island’s cuisine as part of their stay.”

Sri Lankan Breakfast – Ceylon Tea Trails

“I’d definitely encourage clients staying at Tea Trails to try the Sri Lankan breakfast. It’s a lovely way to bring some local flavour into a stay, particularly alongside the property’s famous tea experience."

Jaffna Crab Curry - Spice Coast Crab & Arrack Soirée, Colombo

“This is one I’d really recommend to food-loving clients. Nuwani and her mum host you in their family home, so it feels much more personal than simply going out for dinner. The Jaffna crab is the highlight, but I love that you also learn about the spices and flavours behind the food.”

This is a Hummingbird Exclusive: a mother-and-daughter hosted experience in their family home, centred around freshly caught crab and the bold flavours of Jaffna.

For food-loving clients, the Caribbean offers plenty beyond resort dining. Turks & Caicos is particularly strong for fresh seafood and island specialities, while the Dominican Republic brings its own mix of Caribbean influences and flavour-led dishes.

Lobster Roll at Land + Sea, Wymara Resort and Villas, Turks and Caicos

“I really liked the lobster roll here. It’s a nice one for clients who love seafood but don’t necessarily want a formal meal. You are right by the water, so it feels really relaxed. If guest are keen to try some of the local delicacies while they’re in Turks & Caicos, this is a great place to start.”

Salt Cod Fritters | Regatta, – Salterra, Turks and Caicos

These were one of my favourite little finds at Salterra. I had them for breakfast, which I loved. They’re not necessarily what you’d expect first thing in the morning, but that’s part of the fun. I’d recommend them to clients who like trying something a little different rather than sticking to the usual breakfast.”

Tasting Menu at Brine, Salterra, Turks and Caicos

“The whole tasting menu is worth trying, but the beef tenderloin was definitely the standout for me. What I really liked about Brine is that it doesn’t feel like a tasting menu you could have anywhere. I really liked that the menu is inspired by South Caicos’ salt-making history, and you’re looking out over the salinas while you eat. It just makes the whole dinner feel really special".

Crispy Tuna Rice at La Palapa, Eden Roc Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

“This was a really good option for lunch at La Palapa. The crispy tuna gives it a nice bit of texture, and it’s the kind of dish that works well for clients who want something fresh and easy by the water without compromising on flavour. I’d recommend it for a relaxed lunch when guests are spending the day around the beach.”

Mauritius is a particularly good fit for clients who like variety when it comes to food. The island’s Indian, Creole, French and Asian influences come through across its restaurants, so there’s plenty of choice beyond the typical resort menu. Seafood is a natural highlight too, making it easy to build food-led moments into a stay, from casual beachfront lunches to more refined dining.

Assorted Seafood Platter at La Plaz Beach Grill, Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, Mauritius

“I really enjoyed the seafood platter here. There’s a good variety, so it’s a great option for clients who love seafood or want something to share. I’d recommend it for a relaxed lunch, particularly for guests who want to make the most of the beach setting rather than sit down for a more formal meal.”

Fresh seafood is naturally at the heart of dining in Seychelles, with the islands’ Creole influences and tropical ingredients adding plenty of flavour. It’s a destination where food tends to complement the relaxed pace of island life, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh, simple dishes between time on the water and exploring the islands.

Tuna Poke Bowl, Alphonse Island, - Seychelles

“I really enjoyed the tuna poke bowl here. It’s fresh, light and exactly what I’d want after a day out on the water. I think it’s a lovely lunch option at Alphonse, especially if you’ve spent the morning out exploring and fancy something fresh and easy when you get back.”

From fresh Maldivian seafood to Sri Lankan curries and Caribbean classics, these are personally recommended by the Hummingbird team.

Know a client who loves good food? Speak to the Hummingbird team for more insider recommendations and dining tips from our destinations.