Food
Dare to go fork-free whilst feasting on Maldivian specialities and learning about local culture with native hosts

Dare to go fork-free whilst feasting on Maldivian specialities and learning about local culture with native hosts
Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is setting the scene for 2017 by inviting guests to sample a slice of local life with the launch of its ‘Traditional Maldivian Family Feasts’. These culinary extravaganzas will give guests the opportunity to sample local dishes in the company of Maldivian hosts who will teach them about Maldivian cooking and family life.
Guided by a Maldivian member of the Hadahaa team, this exploration of mouth-watering combinations will see diners make their way through a menu of exclusively Maldivian dishes. A relatively undiscovered cuisine internationally, the dishes are fragrant and light, using lime complemented by spices such as curry leaves and Githeyo Mirus (Maldivian chilli).
Coconut is a Maldivian favourite and features heavily throughout both sweet and savoury courses. Fresh fish caught locally, such as tuna, is also a key ingredient and is often matched with an array of salads and vegetable curries. Whilst guests will recognise some ingredients they will also have the chance to sample other less well known fare such as Kopee, a dark curly leaf similar to kale.
With such a large assortment of foods and flavours on offer it can be confusing to know what goes well together and when. With this in mind, the host will recommend culinary combinations based on guests’ preferences so guests can pull together their ideal dish from the cornucopia of plates in front of them.
For the adventurous, knives and forks will be put aside to embrace true Maldivian table etiquette which encourages handling food with hands over cutlery.
In addition to helping the guests choose which of the many dishes to try, each table host will spend time talking to guests about Maldivian life. From discussing how food is sourced, grown and prepared to explaining the workings of daily family life, how special moments and holidays are celebrated and the country’s diverse history, guests will come away with a greater understanding of this fascinating country.
Traditional Maldivian Family Feasts take place every Sunday and are open to all guests (welcoming up to eight at a time) costing USD 100/£81* per person. Alternatively, guests can reserve a private Traditional Maldivian Dining Experience for USD 120/£97 per person.
Nightly starting rates at Park Hyatt Maldives starts at USD 830/£675* per villa, inclusive of Breakfast. Meal plans up to All Inclusive are available.
Cooking
Michelin-Star magic: Chef Igles Corelli to host exclusive culinary week at Lily Beach Resort

Lily Beach Resort & Spa has announce an exclusive culinary collaboration with renowned Italian chef and Gambero Rosso TV personality, Michelin-Star Chef Igles Corelli. This special event will take place from 11th to 18th August 2025, bringing Corelli’s award-winning expertise and distinctive culinary philosophy to the Maldives for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Chef Igles Corelli rose to national and international prominence during the 1980s and 1990s as the head chef of the legendary Il Trigabolo in Ferrara, where he earned two Michelin stars and played a pivotal role in ushering in a new era of Italian cuisine. He later founded La Locanda della Tamerice, which earned another Michelin star, and served as executive chef of Atman, further solidifying his reputation for innovation and excellence in the culinary world.
In 2012, Chef Corelli introduced the concept of Circular Cooking on the Gambero Rosso Channel—a zero-waste culinary philosophy that aligns seamlessly with Lily Beach’s commitment to mindful, ingredient-focused cuisine.
Lily Beach is internationally celebrated for its pristine natural beauty, five-star hospitality, and world-class dining experiences. With a wide array of restaurants and bars, the resort offers something to please every palate—from refined à la carte dinners and vibrant live cooking stations to fresh, global cuisine served in relaxed, beachfront settings. Culinary highlights include gourmet international buffets at Lily Maa and signature overwater Asian fusion at Tamarind, each meal elevated by breathtaking ocean views and genuine Maldivian warmth.
During his stay, Chef Corelli will conduct a full-day training session with the resort’s in-house culinary team, culminating in a one-night-only Signature Dinner for guests. In addition, he will curate a daily ‘Dish of the Day’ featured on AQVA Restaurant’s lunch menu throughout the week.
This collaboration reflects Lily Beach’s ongoing dedication to providing exceptional gastronomic experiences. Guests will enjoy the rare opportunity to explore the artistry of a chef who has shaped the course of Italian cuisine and inspired generations of culinary professionals.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Maldives’ South Ari Atoll, this culinary event promises a week of elevated dining, innovation, and unforgettable flavours.
Cooking
Ifuru Island Maldives’ Social House introduces authentic Indian Thali experience

Ifuru Island Maldives has unveiled its newest culinary journey: the Indian Thali at Social House. This signature dining experience pays homage to the vibrant flavours, diversity, and cultural warmth of Indian cuisine, reimagined in the heart of the Maldives.
Inspired by Ayurveda’s Six Taste Theory, the Indian Thali is designed to provide a perfectly balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul. Guests can savour an array of authentic dishes that reflect India’s culinary soul, presented with the modern flair and island elegance that define Ifuru Island.

The Thali includes a generous spread of delights such as Jhinga Laziz, Butter Chicken, Boti Masala, Dal Makhani, Palak Paneer, Chana Masala, Tomato Rasam, served alongside Jeera Rice, Paratha, Mango Chutney, Masala Onion, Papadum, and a decadent Gulab Jamun Cheesecake.
“Crafting this Indian Thali has been a labour of love,” says Nadedja Bouacha, Executive Chef at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Each element is carefully prepared to honour India’s diverse culinary heritage while offering our guests a rich, comforting, and authentic experience in a setting as extraordinary as our island.”
The Indian Thali is now available at Social House, the resort’s popular dining venue known for blending global flavors with local flair and laid-back luxury.
Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or a first-time explorer, the Indian Thali at Ifuru Island is a celebration of culture, taste, and mindful eating.
Drink
Master Sommelier Kamal Malik to host exclusive dinner at Ithaa Underwater Gem

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is set to host an exclusive champagne pairing dinner at its iconic Ithaa Underwater Gem on 23 May 2025. Leading the experience is Kamal Malik, India’s only Master Sommelier and judge for the 2025 Decanter World Wine Awards.
Guests will indulge in a specially curated six-course menu featuring refined dishes from land and sea, each paired with a selection of Ruinart’s elegant cuvées—including Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blanc and Rosé. This one-night-only event offers a rare opportunity to experience expert wine pairing in one of the world’s most unique dining settings, five meters below the ocean’s surface.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 world-class brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can’t be found anywhere else and free standard WiFi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room and access their room using Digital Key.
For more information or to book your experience, please visit www.conradmaldives.com or email mlehi.experiences@conradhotels.com or contact +960 6680629.
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