Gastronomy
Jumeirah Vittaveli Brings Tastes of Maharajas to the Maldives

Maldives.net.mv – Jumeirah Vittaveli Maldives has unveiled their new Indian cuisine restaurant. Swarna, inspired by the tastes of Maharajas was officially opened by the Vice President of Maldives, Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Ghafoor on Thursday.
Swarna translates to Gold in Sanskrit, and stands for royalty and opulance. As Jumeirah Vittaveli’s new signature restaurant, Swarna offers Indian cuisine in stunning beachside setting of a copper-roofed tented cabanas built in ancient Indian emperor style. Guests can embark on a voyage through the rich Indian heritage of spices by choosing one of traditional many flavoured Thalis – true feasts on a plate that are served adhering to time-honored recipes and preparation techniques.
Alternatively an international fine dining experience with one of the three “Swarna Journeys”, featuring authentic Indian ingredients are presented in an entirely new and inspired form. These culinary journeys have been exclusively designed by Chef Rahul Kulkarni who has poured his passion and fresh ingenuity into the creation of each of the courses of this opulent menus.
Located a short 20-minute speed boat ride from Malé, Jumeirah Vittaveli offers unmatched diversity, subtle luxury and personalised exploration. The resort comprises of 89 villas and suites each with their own swimming pool and direct access to the beach or lagoon. It provides extensive leisure and health facilities dive centre, Talise Spa and Talise Fitness, as well Kid’s Club. The Talise Spa is surrounded by lush natural gardens.
Drink
Dining at Ayada Maldives: A culinary journey in paradise

At Ayada Maldives, dining transcends the ordinary, offering a symphony of global flavours in breathtaking settings. With eight distinct dining outlets, each presenting a unique culinary experience, the resort caters to every taste, from fine dining to beachside meals. Sourcing organic produce from its own garden and local farms, Ayada ensures authenticity and quality in every dish.
Magu: A World of Flavours
Magu, the resort’s main restaurant, is a culinary cornerstone open for breakfast and dinner. It features a generous international buffet with daily changing themes, including Far Eastern, Maldivian, Mexican, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Chef’s Special. Set amidst lush greenery diners can enjoy meals under the stars or in an air-conditioned pavilion, blending elegance with global tastes. Vegetarian and vegan options are available daily.

Kai: Far Eastern Flavours in a Tropical Retreat
An exquisite range of Far Eastern and Asian delicacies awaits at Kai; a hidden gem nestled in tropical greenery. Open for dinner, the menu features an extensive sushi and sashimi selection made from fresh local seafood, alongside classic dishes from China, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam. The serene setting makes it ideal for a memorable evening immersed in authentic Asian cuisine.
Mizu: Teppanyaki Dining by the Ocean
Mizu offers an intimate teppanyaki dining experience, where chefs prepare fresh seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes live on a hot iron griddle. With top-quality ingredients, an extensive sake and wine list, and a location between the ocean and tropical jungle, Mizu is open for dinner and promises a vibrant, interactive culinary experience.

Zero Degree: Poolside Culinary Bliss
Zero Degree Restaurant and Bar offers a relaxed yet vibrant poolside dining experience for lunch and dinner. Its diverse menu spans international dishes, from crisp salads to European, Asian, and Middle Eastern specialities. Guests can dine barefoot in the water, under a thatched roof, in poolside cabanas, or on sunbeds, soaking up the Maldivian sun in laid-back style.

Ocean Breeze: Over-Water Elegance
Ocean Breeze brings modern European cuisine to an elegant over-water setting, open for lunch and dinner. The seasonal menu includes grilled seafood, homemade pasta, and premium steaks. Its sophisticated location and panoramic ocean views make it a standout destination for refined yet relaxed dining.
Ottoman Lounge: Traditional Turkish Indulgence
This unique lounge celebrates Turkish heritage, offering authentic Turkish teas and coffee served in traditional silverware. Inspired by Ottoman cafés, guests can relax on low seating and savour a cultural experience that pays homage to the rich flavours and customs of Turkey.

Île de Joie: A Luxurious Cheese and Wine Escape
Nestled over the lagoon, Île de Joie is an intimate open-air bar featuring fine wines, curated cheeses, chocolates, and cigars. This “Island of Joy” invites connoisseurs to indulge in a tranquil setting, perfect for sunset sipping and gourmet grazing.

Sea Salt: Beachfront Barbecue under the Stars
Held every Tuesday and Friday on Zero Degree beach, Sea Salt is a must-try beach BBQ offering freshly grilled meats and seafood. With your feet in the sand, stars above, and a mesmerizing fire show, it captures the spirit of a tropical feast in one unforgettable setting.

Featured
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO lunches Barefoot Bistro at Hudhu Bay

As unique dining concepts remain high on the wish list for discerning travellers to the Maldives, competition among luxury resorts continues to centre on innovation and creativity. OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, already home to the world-renowned underwater restaurant M6m, has further expanded its culinary portfolio this summer with the launch of Hudhu Bay’s barefoot bistro – a refined take on the traditional crab shack.
Speaking about the new outlet, Anupam Banerjee, Vice President of Food & Beverage, explained: “Located on a prime stretch of beach, our aim was to activate Hudhu Bay with a dining concept rooted in sustainability. From the outset, every aspect was designed to minimise environmental impact, from the nautical-inspired décor to the sourcing of ingredients. The idea was to create a fine dining experience that could be enjoyed barefoot on the beach, free from formalities, while still savouring exquisite flavours.”
Guests begin their evening with tropical welcome cocktails prepared by the island’s mixologists, accompanied by crab amuse-bouche. The culinary journey then unfolds with a menu centred on sustainably sourced Sri Lankan mud crab, prepared with global influences. Choices include the aromatic À la Provençale Crab from southern France, Hong Kong’s wok-fired Butter Garlic Crab, Singapore’s iconic Chilli Crab, and the fiery Jaffna Spiced Crab from Sri Lanka’s Tamil culinary tradition. Completing the menu, the Sri Lankan Scampi highlights the island nation’s seafood heritage, using locally sourced crustaceans and traditional methods. Post-dinner, guests are invited to relax under the night sky with coffee and liqueurs served on the beach.
Every dish is carefully crafted to showcase authentic regional culinary traditions alongside the freshness of locally sourced seafood, offering guests an international dining experience in a distinctly Maldivian setting.
The new concept underscores OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s commitment to sustainable gastronomy, with a focus on traceability, conservation and marine stewardship. The resort’s approach ensures that exceptional cuisine goes hand in hand with the preservation of fragile ecosystems.
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is recognised for its diverse culinary offerings, from the immersive underwater dining at M6m to authentic Asian cuisine at Tradition Peking and Maldivian heritage dishes at Lonu. Across The OZEN Collection, the group continues to redefine luxury dining with innovative concepts, sustainable practices and memorable settings. Guests may also enhance their stay through the acclaimed INDULGENCE™ Plan, which includes unlimited premium beverages, curated wines and signature cocktails.
Drink
Canareef Resort brings Oktoberfest to Maldives this Autumn

From 20 September to 20 October 2025, Canareef Resort Maldives will host an Oktoberfest celebration each evening on Dhoni Beach. The event is set to bring the authentic flavours of Germany to the Maldives, enhanced by the island’s tropical setting.
Guests will be able to enjoy live German food counters offering traditional dishes, paired with a curated selection of German beers. Prepared by the resort’s chefs, the menu is designed to reflect Bavarian culinary traditions in a relaxed beachside atmosphere.
Entertainment will feature a mix of live bands and DJs, creating a lively setting where guests can dance or unwind by the sea. On selected evenings, entertainment will also be held in the resort bar, providing a variety of options to suit different preferences.
While access to Oktoberfest is complimentary for in-house guests, those on all-inclusive packages will be subject to a cover charge. The arrangement ensures a premium experience with quality food and entertainment throughout the festivities.
By combining German cultural traditions with Maldivian island leisure, Canareef’s Oktoberfest offers guests an immersive opportunity to celebrate with good food, music, and the spirit of Oktoberfest beneath the stars.
-
Action1 week ago
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island achieves PADI Eco Center Certification
-
News1 week ago
SIX & SIX introduces HIRIGAA private island at DHON MAAGA MALDIVES
-
News1 week ago
Barceló Nasandhura Malé unveils exclusive residences
-
Awards1 week ago
Sun Siyam Iru Veli named Best Honeymoon Destination at TTM Awards 2025
-
News1 week ago
NH Collection Maldives Havodda named Best Dive Resort at TTM Awards 2025
-
Drink7 days ago
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort to host wine dinner with Ilaria Felluga of Marco Felluga
-
Featured1 week ago
ROBINSON NOONU expands summer offering with wellness, sports, and cultural events
-
Featured1 week ago
Angsana Velavaru recognised as Best Water Villa Resort at TTM Awards 2025