Hedhikaa (short-eats) tasting tour
Hedhikaa are Maldivian short-eats—small, flavorful snacks served in teashops and local cafés across Malé. This guided or self-guided tasting tour focuses on sampling classic savory and sweet hedhikaa while visiting neighborhood teashops, meeting local makers, and learning about the ingredients and cultural traditions behind each bite.
Location
Various teashops & local cafés around central Malé (Ameenee Magu, Majeedhee Magu, near the Local Market and waterfront), Malé, Maldives
Duration
2–3 hours (evening recommended: 5:30–9:00 PM for lively teashop atmosphere; mornings also good for breakfast hedhikaa)
Best Time to Visit
November–April (dry season) for pleasant weather; evenings any time of year when teashops are busiest.
Pricing
Approximately USD 10–25 per person for a 2–3 hour walk-and-taste (depends on number of items). Individual hedhikaa items typically cost USD 0.50–2.50 each.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Gulha — deep-fried fish-and-coconut dumplings (a must-try)
Bajiya — Maldivian samosa-style pastry filled with tuna and spices
Kulhi Boakibaa (fish cake) — steamed or baked savory fish loaf
Masroshi — flatbread stuffed with spiced tuna, pan-grilled
Sweet hedhikaa & local desserts (try a local pancake or sweet bun with tea)
Pairings with strong Maldivian black tea or flavored tea served in teashops
Small-group or solo-friendly walk from shop to shop — great for street-food photography and meeting local vendors
Itinerary
Meet at a central landmark (e.g., Sultan Park / local market area) and quick briefing.
Guide or host introduces hedhikaa culture, common ingredients, and walking route.
Stop 1 — Historic teashop sampling gulha and bajiya.
Taste freshly fried gulha with a hot cup of black tea; learn about traditional fillings.
Stop 2 — Try kulhi boakibaa and masroshi at a popular local café.
Observe preparation (if available) and sample warm fish cake and stuffed roshi.
Stop 3 — Sweets and dessert hedhikaa with a second tea round.
Try a local sweet hedhikaa and discuss how flavors balance with tea; option to visit a busy late-night stall.
Optional walk-by to the fish market or waterfront for photos and local atmosphere.
End with recommendations for other teashops and takeaway tips for trying hedhikaa independently.
Safety Requirements
Notify guide/host of any seafood or shellfish allergies—most hedhikaa contain tuna or fish.
Consume freshly made items only; avoid anything that looks reheated or left uncovered for long periods.
Carry small bills and coins—many teashops prefer cash and may not take cards.
Follow local customs: dress modestly when walking through residential areas and be respectful while photographing people.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from sun/heat if daytime touring.
Tips
Ask for advice—teashop owners are friendly and will recommend their specialties.
Pair hedhikaa with strong black tea; if you prefer less sugar, request ‘less sugar’ when ordering tea.
Go in a small group or with a local guide to access lesser-known stalls and learn about recipes.
Bring wet wipes or hand sanitizer—eating with hands is common at some stalls.
Try a variety (savory and sweet) but pace yourself—many small items are quite filling.
Respect opening hours—some cafés are busiest in the evening; others may close early.
