Barceló Nasandhura Malé has partnered with internationally recognised chef and restaurateur Dharshan Munidasa to host a two-night culinary pop-up at B.Heaven Rooftop on 13 and 14 November 2026.

Chef Dharshan, the founder of Nihonbashi and Ministry of Crab, both of which have been featured on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list, will present a selection of mud crab and freshwater prawn dishes during the event. He is also behind Carne Diem Grill at CROSSROADS Maldives, which has been featured in 50 Best Discovery this year.

The collaboration will bring Ministry of Crab’s approach to seafood preparation to Malé, with an emphasis on ingredient freshness and quality. The restaurant follows a strict no-freezer policy, and the two-day event will feature export-quality mud crabs and freshwater prawns flown in fresh for the occasion.

The dining experience will take place at B.Heaven Rooftop, offering guests views of the surrounding ocean while introducing a selection of dishes associated with Ministry of Crab.

“We are honoured to welcome a culinary maestro of Chef Dharshan’s global calibre to Barceló Nasandhura Malé this November,” said Enric Reina, Hotel Manager at Barceló Nasandhura Malé.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone for both our hotel and the capital’s dining scene as we elevate the local epicurean landscape, offering our resident guests and Malé’s culinary connoisseurs a rare opportunity to experience award-winning gastronomy.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Chef Dharshan highlighted the Maldives’ connection to his culinary work and the opportunity to introduce Ministry of Crab’s signature preparations to diners in Malé.

“Maldives holds a special place in the regional food landscape, surrounded by the same pristine Indian Ocean waters that inspire much of my culinary work. Partnering with Barceló Nasandhura allows us to showcase our iconic Ministry of Crab signature dishes—from our Garlic Chili Crab to our hand-crushed Pepper Crab—alongside exclusive preparations crafted specifically for B.Heaven Rooftop,” he said.

The two-night event will feature a curated menu showcasing Ministry of Crab’s signature preparations, including Garlic Chili Crab and Pepper Crab, alongside dishes developed specifically for the collaboration.

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been included in the 2026 selection of the MICHELIN Guide, recognising the independently owned Maldivian resort for its hospitality, facilities and guest experiences.

The MICHELIN Guide’s hotel selection features properties from around the world, assessed against five criteria: connection to the destination, architecture and design, quality and consistency of service, authenticity and character, and value for the experience offered.

Located in North Malé Atoll, approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Kuda Villingili features 75 villas, including 36 overwater villas, each equipped with a private pool. The resort caters to couples, families and groups of friends, offering accommodation and facilities designed to accommodate different guest preferences.

The resort offers eight dining experiences, an overwater spa, a 150-metre swimming pool, and a range of sports and wellness facilities. Its location near Chickens Break, one of the Maldives’ established surfing destinations, provides guests with access to surfing activities alongside other water-based experiences.

Kuda Villingili has also received Green Globe certification for the third consecutive year, reflecting its efforts in environmental sustainability and community engagement.

“Being selected for the MICHELIN Guide is a meaningful recognition for Kuda Villingili and, above all, for our team. Every day, our ambassadors bring warmth, care and individuality to the guest experience. This recognition reflects the passion behind what we have created together and encourages us to continue evolving while remaining true to who we are,” said Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives.

The resort’s hospitality concept focuses on providing guests with flexibility to personalise their stays through activities including surfing, wellness, dining and family experiences, as well as opportunities for relaxation.

The inclusion in the MICHELIN Guide’s 2026 hotel selection represents another development for Kuda Villingili as it continues to position itself within the Maldives’ luxury hospitality sector under its brand philosophy, Time and Space Redefined.

From 4 to 7 January 2027, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, embraces the spirit of Orthodox Christmas through a celebration of Russian culinary traditions, live music and shared experiences for all generations. Set against the natural beauty of the Indian Ocean, the occasion brings together cherished customs and contemporary island living, creating meaningful opportunities for connection and discovery.

On 4 and 5 January, Fari Beach Club presents special dining experiences with Guest Chef Maxim Artyukhov, Brand Chef and Executive Chef of SATEEN GROUP. Drawing inspiration from the culinary heritage of the Don region, Maxim Artyukhov brings his interpretation of European and Russian cuisine to the island, combining locally sourced farm produce with contemporary culinary techniques and the rich flavours of regional gastronomy.

On 6 January, Helios Pavilion becomes the setting for an evening of culinary discovery and live entertainment. Christmas cocktails and refined canapés welcome guests before a specially curated menu brings together international delicacies and much-loved Russian specialities by Chef Maxim Artyukhov. The evening unfolds to the sounds of Anton Belyaev, founder and frontman of Therr Maitz. Blending indie, electronic, soul and pop influences, his live performance fills the evening with energy and festive spirit, while a spectacular fireworks display illuminates the skies above the Indian Ocean.

Younger guests discover the island through a programme designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and a sense of adventure. On 6 January, a Mindful Walk, Kids Yoga, Wildflower Challenge, Green Creations, outdoor games and an introduction to snorkelling invite children to explore their surroundings in new ways. The Padel Tennis Tournament brings guests together through friendly competition and shared sporting experiences. While parents enjoy the Christmas dinner, younger guests have their own dedicated space for play and entertainment.

On 7 January, Russian winter folklore comes to life with a special appearance by Ded Moroz and his granddaughter, Snegurochka. Beloved figures of the Russian Christmas tradition, they bring festive cheer to the island and delight younger guests with special gifts.

At Patina Maldives, Orthodox Christmas brings cherished traditions into a setting defined by natural beauty, thoughtful experiences and meaningful connections. From Russian culinary heritage and live music to moments of discovery for younger guests, the celebration offers an opportunity to come together, share the spirit of the occasion and create lasting memories by the Indian Ocean.

For more information, please visit the resort’s website or contact reservations.maldives@patinahotels.com.