Rooftop Seafood at The Manhattan Fish Market

Spending a layover night in Hulhumale, I thought I’d just grab something quick—until I stumbled upon this rooftop seafood spot. It checks all boxes: great views for photos, fresh-tasting seafood, and suddenly, that "layover" felt like a little pre-vacation celebration. Two of us ate till we were stuffed for around 700 Maldivian Rufiyaa (≈350 RMB)—value for money, no doubt! 🌆 Ambiance: A "view canteen" on the rooftop, snapshots look like magazine spreads Tucked on a building’s rooftop, it’s not fancy, but the views steal the show. Go at dusk, and you’ll watch the sunset paint Hulhumale’s rooftops warm yellow, with the distant sea glowing gold. A sea breeze carries salty air, and any window seat gives that "pretending I’m on a resort island" vibe—phone snaps come out stunning without even trying. Rooftop lights are soft warm white, with tiny plants on tables. Casual clothes fit right in; it feels like "dining on a friend’s rooftop"—relaxed, perfect for those wanting "something nice" during a layover without the formality. 🍤 Dishes: This seafood platter fries the sea’s freshness right into every bite Must-order seafood & fish fry platter: The restaurant’s signature. When it arrived, we were shocked by the portion—fried fish chunks, calamari rings, shrimp, and a few golden-fried unknown sea fish, piled like a little mountain. The batter is thin; bite in, and it "crunches" while letting the seafood’s natural sweetness shine (truly ""—no over-the-top seasonings). The tartar sauce cuts greasiness, making it easy to snack on plain. Cheese-baked shrimp: The MVP of the meal! Large shrimp, deveined and butterflied, topped with thick cheesy sauce, grilled till the surface is slightly charred with a smoky aroma. Pick one up, and the cheese "stretches"—pure comfort. The shrimp flesh is tender enough to bounce, and the cheese’s saltiness blends with the shrimp’s freshness. Even the crispy edges of the shell beg to be gnawed clean; you’ll lick cheese off your fingers afterward. Tomato pasta: A pleasant surprise! The tomato sauce is homemade, with a hint of basil. The pasta is "al dente (chewy but not hard)", coated in sauce that slides down easily—tangy, fresh, with a touch of sweetness. It balances the fried platter perfectly, cutting greasiness while filling you up. Pretty drinks: We ordered two Instagram-worthy ones (probably passionfruit soda and mango smoothie), with ice beads on the glass and mint leaves as garnish. Hold them up for photos—their sweet-tartness pairs with seafood, refreshing like a sip of sea breeze. 💰 Prices & Pro Tips: Two of us had the seafood platter + tomato pasta + two drinks for ~700 MVR (≈350 RMB)—plenty even for guys. Way cheaper than resort restaurants (half the cost, easy). The rooftop’s up a couple flights (no elevator, but not steep). Go around 6 PM—catch the sunset and skip peak-hour crowds. Perfect for a "little splurge" during layovers: With the next day’s island stay ahead, this meal—with views and flavor—kicks off the vacation mood just right. Leaving with a full belly, I realized layovers can feel this nice. If you’re in Hulhumale, don’t miss this rooftop spot—after all, finding a meal with "great views and great taste" during a layover? That’s a little travel joy right there. #HulhumaleFood #Hulhumale #Male #HiddenGemRestaurant #MaldivesTravelGuide #DailyFood #SeafoodRestaurant #LayoverEats