Spanner Crab Crostini

Warm Octopus Salad

Poached Prawn Cocktail

Grilled Yellowfin Tuna Steak

Barbecue Wagyu Short Rib

Fihunu Mas

Maldivian Marinated Whole Reef Fish wrapped in Pandan Leaf with Chargrilled Coconut

Ocean Grill was one of our favourite dinner settings at JA Manafaru, combining refined alfresco dining with the relaxed barefoot atmosphere that feels so perfectly suited to the Maldives. Set directly on the beach overlooking the Indian Ocean, the open-air restaurant is surrounded by tropical greenery, with tables beneath the stars and the sound of the waves providing the backdrop to dinner.

The menu focuses on sustainably sourced seafood alongside expertly grilled meats and vegetarian dishes, with fresh local catches playing a starring role. We started with the spanner crab crostini, followed by a beautifully tender warm octopus salad and a classic poached prawn cocktail. Each dish felt elegant without being overly complicated, allowing the quality of the seafood and ingredients to really shine.

For mains, the grilled yellowfin tuna was a highlight, perfectly cooked and ideal for the oceanfront setting. We also loved the barbecue Wagyu short rib, which was wonderfully tender, rich and full of flavour. The restaurant’s grill concept works particularly well here, balancing sophisticated presentation with the relaxed pleasure of dining outdoors by the sea.

Service throughout the evening was exceptional, attentive and polished while still retaining the warmth we experienced throughout JA Manafaru. Ocean Grill also has an extensive wine and beverage list, making it particularly enjoyable for a leisurely dinner over a good bottle of wine. With its beautiful oceanfront location, excellent produce and understated fine-dining atmosphere, Ocean Grill is an easy recommendation for a special evening on the island.

www.jaresortshotels.com/maldives/ja-manafaru

Haa Alifu Atoll, Upper North Province, Maldives

+960 6500 456