Would You Eat at This Underwater Restaurant?

Imagine savoring an exquisite meal while being fully immersed in an aquatic wonderland, surrounded by vibrant fish and sprawling coral reefs. If this sounds like a dream, it’s time to discover Ithaa Undersea Restaurant in the Maldives, an exclusive dining experience that redefines what it means to eat “by the ocean.”

What is Ithaa Undersea Restaurant?

Located at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort, Ithaa (meaning “mother of pearl” in Dhivehi) is the world’s first all-glass undersea restaurant. Sitting 16 feet below the Indian Ocean’s surface, Ithaa invites diners to enjoy a panoramic view of the Maldivian marine life from inside a fully transparent, 180-degree dome. Guests are enveloped in a surreal atmosphere as stingrays glide overhead and schools of tropical fish dart by, creating a dining experience that feels both peaceful and mesmerizing.

The Menu: A Fine Dining Feast

At Ithaa, the culinary offerings are as extraordinary as the setting itself. The restaurant serves a sophisticated blend of contemporary European cuisine with a touch of Asian flair, focusing on fresh, local ingredients and sustainable seafood. Diners can expect multi-course tasting menus that vary seasonally, with indulgent selections such as lobster, caviar, and tender cuts of beef. Each dish is crafted with artistry to match the elegance of the surroundings.

The chef’s choices often spotlight the region’s tropical flavors, with delicate infusions of coconut, lemongrass, and lime. Signature dishes like the reef lobster medallion or the Maldivian-inspired fish curry are known for their vivid flavors and artful presentation. And, for guests with a penchant for sweets, the dessert course might bring a fusion of tropical fruits paired with exotic sorbets.

The Dining Experience: A Journey Beneath the Waves

Dining at Ithaa is about more than food—it’s a journey into the wonders of the ocean itself. With limited seating and an intimate, hushed atmosphere, guests are encouraged to relax and truly immerse themselves in the beauty around them. As daylight filters through the crystalline waters, the natural light shifts from soft blues to deep purples and greens, adding a magical quality to each course. Evening reservations bring a different ambiance, with an ethereal, twilight-lit view of the sea.

Many diners report a profound sense of calm as they watch life unfold in the coral gardens just inches away. The restaurant’s exclusivity and peaceful vibe have made it an incredibly popular choice for honeymooners and those celebrating special milestones. It’s a place where extraordinary memories are created, making every moment from the first sip of champagne to the final spoonful of dessert feel as timeless as the ocean itself.

Is Dining Underwater Worth It?

The unique environment, breathtaking views, and top-tier cuisine all contribute to an unforgettable experience, but there’s also the novelty factor. How often does anyone get to dine 16 feet below the sea? If you’re considering splurging on this once-in-a-lifetime experience, Ithaa’s underwater world may well be worth every penny.

Ready to Dive In?

Dining at Ithaa offers more than just a meal—it’s an adventure, a front-row seat to one of nature’s most incredible shows. So, would you eat at this underwater restaurant? For those looking for a dining experience unlike any other, the question almost answers itself.