[travel + food] ithaa underwater restaurant

The Hilton Resort & Spa on Rangali Island, Maldives features an underwater restaurant that appears to be the first of its kind in the world. Situated 15 feet below the waves of the Indian Ocean, Ithaa serves up contemporary Maldivian cuisine fused with both western and asian influences. Dishes range from the more traditional local flavors of the sour lime & chilli pickled "ihi" Maldivian lobster to the more asian-influenced "Faru Man" reef fish, steamed and served in an oriental sauce with oil-blanched ponzu vegtables. With seating for only 14, Ithaa offers an exclusive dining experience and comes with a damn fine view. The restaurant is encased in clear acrylic and is surrounded by a coral reef, giving diners a panoramic underwater view. Would've been nice if they had completed the experience by installing glass floors to offer a truly 360 degree view.