Set in one of the older style residential houses (i.e. within a walled compound), the Royal Garden is hardly conspicuous from the street, and one may pass by without noticing the activity inside. Inside, it is a sizable establishment with internal rooms that are air...conditioned. Then there is a large porch and finally the courtyard, all simply but comfortably furnished. The popularity of this eatery, especially with the locals become very obvious during lunch when the whole place is buzzing with activity, from the external courtyard to the cooler inner rooms. This is probably partly due to the strategic setting. Situated on Medhuziyaarai Magu (street), Royal Garden is across from some important ministries, the defense force headquarters and quality hotels.
Although listed here as an Indian restaurant, the menu is more extensive, taking in local Maldivian and Sri Lankan cuisines, and even a splattering of western dishes like pasta, sandwiches, grills and the like. The place is also known for serving the local delicacy Garudia, a spicy fish soup that is accompanied by rice. The Indian and Sri Lankan dishes are usually spicy hot so may not suit everyone. The quality of the food is good though. The fresh juices, prepared as ordered are also good value.
The ambiance is lively, the establishment clean and the service attentive and reasonably quick. Moreover, the prices are very reasonable. Royal Garden is worth a visit if you are looking to partake in some local dishes in pleasant (and local) surrounds.More