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Soneva Fushi opens new overwater dining destination Out of the Blue

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Soneva Fushi has opened Out of the Blue, its latest dining destination.

The two-storey overwater structure houses five brand new dining experiences, from intimate settings of just five diners presided over by world-famous chefs, to large alfresco shared dining areas.

Aerial view of Out of the Blue. PHOTO/ SONEVA

Central to this new dining outlet is the eponymous 50-seater, all-day dining area Out of the Blue, which hosts a number of different kitchens offering international dishes such as pizza, salad, grilled meats and seafood. This space shares a seating area with the Chinese and Modern Japanese Kitchens and lets guests choose between sitting under cover or on the open deck. Here guests will also find So Hot, which includes the Tandoor Oven, Robata Grill, Josper Grill, Pizza Oven and So Chilled, the chocolate and ice-cream parlour. So Fresh is the first overwater organic greenhouse in the Maldives, where guests can hand-pick the ingredients they wish to have in their salad themselves. Soneva Fushi’s cheese room, So Cheesy, is also part of the offerings.

Some of the most famous names in the culinary world will be hosting dinners at Once Upon a Table, only open for dinner. The unusual horseshoe-shaped table seats a mere eight diners for up-close and personal dining experiences with Michelin-starred chefs and chefs from San Pellegrino’s Top 100 list. Included in this lineup are more than 30 of the world’s top chefs. Once Upon a Table has no menu, meaning dinners are always a surprise.

Ounce Upon a Table at Out of the Blue dining destination. PHOTO/ SONEVA

So Hand’s On is the dedicated sushi counter, seating five diners for lunch and dinner. This outlet will see some of the world’s best sushi chefs visiting it throughout the year, notably Chef Kenji Gyoten, who is cooking in August at So Hands On. He is the youngest three Michelin-starred chef in Japan, and one of the four three-starred sushi chefs in the world. During the rest of the year, Chef Akira Koba, a highly-trained sushi chef, will be running the table.

Soneva Fushi opens its first Teppanyaki table with So Bespoke, an open-air restaurant with western views of the Baa atoll. Chef Katushiro To, a famous Teppanyaki chef from Japan, will be grilling and barbecuing year-round for just eight diners, for lunch and dinner.

The Chinese Kitchen will be serving modern Chinese cuisine. The Modern Japanese Kitchen, run by Soneva Fushi’s Chef Nikki, is set to serve delicacies such as modern sashimi, torched wagyu, black cod and other Japanese favourites, all with a contemporary twist. Both of these outlets are open for lunch and come with a wine selection of 250 varieties of magnums, as well as a large selection of sakes and wines by the glass.

Finally, the Bar and Cellar is where guests can choose from the extensive beverage encyclopaedia, that includes a selection of 200 expertly chosen high-end wines by the glass. A wide selection of beers, spirits and cocktails will also be on offer, as well as freshly squeezed juices and specialty teas and coffees. Open all day, every day, the Bar and Cellar seats 30 pax.

The new launch forms part of Soneva’s Festival of Colour, where a different activity is celebrated each month across Soneva’s resorts.

Soneva Fushi’s Out of the Blue is set to further expand upon the resorts already extensive dining options, visiting chefs from around the world will be showcasing their culinary skills and creations for guests year round as part of Soneva’s Festival of Colour.

In February, Soneva launched its first ever year-long campaign known as a ‘Festival of Colour’ to celebrate the diverse array of guest activities and experiences on offer this year. Soneva has confirmed a huge line-up of visiting experts, including chefs, authors, wine producers, world-champion free-divers, astronomers, artists, wellness practitioners, tennis coaches and more at all resorts. Soneva’s Festival of Colour runs from February 2018 – February 2019.

Established in 1995, Soneva Fushi is the original Soneva. The No News, No Shoes blueprint for all desert island barefoot luxury hideaways is located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives. Soneva Fushi inspires the imagination with 65 spacious beachfront villas, ranging in size from one to nine bedrooms, hidden amongst dense foliage.

The iconic resort has bagged several international awards for eco-friendly tourism and green initiatives, including the 2017 Green Hotelier Award for the Asia Pacific region and the Sustainable Hotel Award by the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) as well as a spot in the Gold List compiled by Condé Nast Traveler China as the Best Hotel in the Maldives and amongst the best resorts in the world in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2017.

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Escape to culinary paradise: Indulge in exquisite dining experiences at Meeru Maldives Resort Island

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Imagine a place where azure waters gently lap against pristine sandy shores, where the sunsets paint the sky with hues of orange and pink, and where every meal is a celebration of flavours and cultures from around the world. Welcome to Meeru Maldives Resort Island, where culinary excellence meets unparalleled natural beauty. With a legacy of over 40 years in hospitality excellence, Meeru offers more than just a getaway; it promises a gastronomic journey like no other.

Savouring Maldivian Delights

As you embark on your gastronomic voyage at Meeru Maldives, the journey begins at ‘Farivalhu’ and ‘Maalan’, the resort’s esteemed buffet restaurants. Here, guests are treated to a lavish spread of international cuisine, curated with particular attention to detail and complemented by themed nights that promise an unparalleled dining adventure. From Arabian Nights to Indian Delights, Mexican Fiesta to Italian celebrations and Maldivian cultural delicacies, each themed night adds a unique flair to the culinary experience. Whether you find yourself drawn to the vibrant atmosphere of Farivalhu or seek solace in the intimate ambiance of Maalan’s adult-only section, each dining experience is a symphony of flavours, a fusion of aromas, and a celebration of culinary artistry. From the moment you take your first bite, prepare to be transported on a sensory odyssey where every dish is an invitation to indulge in the finest flavours the world has to offer. At Meeru Maldives, every meal is not just sustenance; it is an experience to be savoured, cherished, and remembered for years to come.

The Reef: Ocean’s Bounty Unleashed

Step into ‘The Reef’ and prepare to be captivated by a jubilant tribute to the boundless treasures of the sea. Drawing inspiration from coastal kitchens across the globe, the menu is a heartfelt homage to the ocean’s bounty, where each dish reverberates with the essence of freshness and flavour. Indulge in the opulence of the Chilled Seafood Tower, a lavish display of the ocean’s finest offerings precisely arranged to tantalise the senses. Delight in the succulent Moules-frites, where plump mussels harmonise with crisp fries in a dance of savoury delight. Savour the sweetness of the freshly caught Crabs, each shell bursting with succulent meat waiting to be discovered. For those seeking a taste of the extraordinary, Octopus Carpaccio offers a delicate balance of tender textures and vibrant flavours, while locally inspired tuna showcases the Maldives’ rich marine heritage in every exquisite bite. Complementing The Reef’s seafood selections are an array of fresh salads and sumptuously grilled fish, ensuring a symphony of tastes to satisfy both seafood aficionados and discerning palates alike. With every mouthful, allow yourself to be transported to the shores of coastal paradises, where the sea’s bounty is celebrated with reverence and joy. At The Reef, every dining experience is a journey of culinary discovery, a testament to the ocean’s endless generosity and the artistry of the chefs.

Vilu: A Journey Through the Mediterranean

Embark on a captivating culinary journey through the vibrant heart of the Mediterranean as you step into the enchanting world of ‘Vilu’. Inspired by bustling markets and steeped in time-honoured culinary traditions, Vilu’s menu is a veritable tapestry of the region’s diverse flavours, weaving a tale of sun-drenched produce and convivial dining experiences. Immerse yourself in a realm where every meal is a communal celebration, inviting you to partake in the rich combination of flavours from France, Spain, Greece, and Portugal. At Vilu, authenticity reigns supreme as each dish is crafted with thorough attention to detail, reflecting the essence of the Mediterranean’s illustrious gastronomic heritage. Indulge in the hearty warmth of the Duck Confit, a symphony of tender flavours that pays homage to the rustic charm of French cuisine. For dessert, surrender to the decadent allure of Crema Catalana, where luscious custard meets caramelised perfection in a heavenly fusion of flavours. But Vilu is more than just a dining destination; it’s a sanctuary where sophistication meets simplicity, promising an unforgettable culinary affair. Here, amidst the gentle ocean breeze and the rhythmic lull of the waves, every moment becomes an exquisite revelation of taste and pleasure. It is pure bliss to let your senses be serenaded by the symphony of Mediterranean flavours at Vilu, where every bite tells a story of tradition, heritage, and the timeless allure of coastal living.

A-Mare: Italian Elegance Redefined

Transport your taste buds to the shores of Italy at A-Mare, where Italian chef’s love for the homeland shines through in every dish. From antipasti to pizzas and risottos, A-Mare pays homage to Italy’s rich culinary heritage with recipes that honour tradition while embracing innovation.

“This dining spot honours the straightforwardness of Italian fare, prioritising ingredient quality over complexity,” says Cristian Marino, chef, blogger, author and the former Culinary Consultant of Meeru Maldives. Here at A-Mare, guests are invited to savor the warmth and hospitality of Italian dining against the backdrop of the Maldivian sunset by acclaimed Executive Chef of Meeru Maldives, Marco Goldin and his team.

Asian Fusion and Teppanyaki Marvels

Indulge your senses with savoury stir-fries and culturally diverse dishes that burst with the bold flavours of the East, or lose yourself in the intoxicating aroma of fragrant curries that transport you to bustling street markets and kitchens of Asia. But the journey doesn’t end there. For those seeking a truly immersive dining encounter, venture to the Teppanyaki grill at Asian Wok, where skilled chefs transform ordinary ingredients into culinary masterpieces right before your eyes. Be mesmerised as flames dance and ingredients sizzle, culminating in a spectacle of culinary expertise that is as delightful to watch as it is to taste. At Asian Wok, every dish is a work of art, every bite a revelation of flavour. Join us as we celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Asia and embark on a gastronomic adventure that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Meeru Maldives is not just about exquisite dining; it’s also about unwinding with a refreshing beverage in hand. From ‘Kakuni Bar’ to ‘Dhoni Bar’, ‘Pavilion Bar’ to ‘Uthuru Bar’, guests can enjoy a wide selection of cocktails, mocktails, spirits and wines all served with a side of stunning island views.

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Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas Toasts Acclaimed Wine Program with Exclusive Events

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Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas celebrates a resounding victory after securing both the Wine Spectator Awards and the World of Fine Wine List award for 2023. These prestigious accolades recognize the resort’s unwavering commitment to curating an exceptional wine experience, perfectly complementing its world-renowned cuisine and stunning island setting.

Renowned for impeccable service and exceptional selections, The Wine Spectator Awards and the World of Fine Wine List award have singled out Anantara Kihavah’s wine program for its excellence. The resort’s signature underwater restaurant, SEA, takes center stage with its impressive collection, expertly curated by Area Wine Guru & WSET Educator, Arunkumar Tamilselvan, and resident Beverage Manager, Lenka Praveen. The collection boasts rare finds alongside timeless classics, meticulously chosen to elevate the unique dining experience at SEA.

Building upon this prestigious recognition, Anantara Kihavah’s wine experts, Arunkumar Tamilselvan and Lenka Praveen, are thrilled to unveil a series of exclusive wine and beverage events. These premium gatherings will feature gourmet cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Joachim Textor, perfectly paired with the curated selections.

Unforgettable Evenings Await:

  • SIX-METRES BELOW WITH DUVAL LEROY – DÉGUSTATION SECRÈTE (March 28, 2024): Embark on a culinary adventure six meters below the ocean at SEA Underwater Restaurant. This exquisite five-course dining experience features a decadent pairing with versatile Champagnes from Duval-Leroy. The evening begins with an aperitif at SKY Bar at 7:00 PM, followed by dinner priced at USD 445++ per person.
  • A JOURNEY TO SUPER TUSCAN (April 1, 2024): Indulge in a lavish culinary adventure at Plates Restaurant, where the spotlight shines on iconic Super Tuscan wines. Led by the resort’s esteemed wine guru, guests will delve into an exquisite selection, showcasing the unique charm and prestige of these Italian blends. Executive Chef Textor has meticulously crafted each of the five courses to harmonize flavors and captivate discerning palates. The evening commences with an elegant aperitif at Plates Beach at 7:00 PM, followed by a sumptuous dinner priced at USD 295++ per person.

Experience luxury and gastronomy at its finest. For reservations or inquiries, call +960 664 4111, visit www.anantara.com/kihavah-maldives, or email reservations.maldives@anantara.com.

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Drink

Atmosphere Core Redefines Wine Experiences with Global Events and Unique Partnerships

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Leading Maldives hospitality group announces 7-country educational wine program tour

Since its launch in 2021, Atmosphere Core’s innovative Wine Program has revolutionized the way travelers experience wine and champagne in the Maldives. This program transcends simply offering premium brands, fostering genuine connections between guests and carefully selected wineries through partnerships and dedicated events.

Global Wine Events Showcase Unique Wine Culture:

Atmosphere Core proudly unveils its 2024 calendar, featuring 16 exclusive wine events across seven countries, kicking off in March and continuing through mid-September. These events span major cities like Madrid, Prague, Frankfurt, Milan, Tokyo, London, and Vienna, offering a taste of the Maldives to travel partners and top-tier media.

Highlighting the Essence of Luxury:

The calendar features a distinct highlight: THE OZEN COLLECTION Champagne Experience at the Westphalia Stadium in Dortmund, Germany, scheduled for September 2024. This unique event showcases the company’s three distinct brands – THE OZEN COLLECTION, COLOURS OF OBLU, and Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts.

Authentic Wine & Dine Experiences:

These immersive “Wine and Dine” experiences recreate the distinctive ambiance of Atmosphere Core’s resorts, transporting guests to the heart of the Maldives. Attendees will have the opportunity to savor exquisite vintages from four carefully chosen terroir wineries:

  • Champagne Guy Charbaut (Mareuil-sur-Ay)
  • Bodegas Viñátigo (Canary Islands)
  • Glenelly Estate (Stellenbosch)
  • Martín Códax (Rías Baixas)

These wineries hold exclusive pouring rights within the Maldives with Atmosphere Core, ensuring a truly unique experience.

Engaging Storytelling and Expertise:

Hosted by Nicolas Laguette, Atmosphere Core’s Director of Wine, these events feature senior sales and communication executives alongside representatives from the esteemed wine partners. The intimate setting fosters engaging conversations and storytelling, allowing participants to delve into the philosophy behind the program’s unique approach.

Family-Owned Wineries and Curated Partnerships:

Atmosphere Core has partnered with three generational family-owned wineries – Champagne Guy Charbaut, Bodegas Viñátigo, and Glenelly Estate – along with Martín Códax, a renowned cooperative representing over 600 families in Cambados, Spain. Each partner was meticulously chosen based on their long-standing heritage, commitment to family values, and unique terroir wines unavailable elsewhere in the Maldives.

Building Lasting Connections:

The partner winemakers reciprocate the hospitality by hosting Atmosphere Core’s resort teams at their vineyards, fostering deeper connections and fostering knowledge exchange. Each bottle served carries a captivating story, passionately shared by the sommeliers who have personally explored the origins of these exceptional wines.

A Year of Enriching Wine Adventures:

Wine enthusiasts, partners, and global travelers can look forward to an exciting year filled with enriching wine-related experiences curated by Atmosphere Core. This innovative program continues to redefine the standard for wine experiences in the Maldives, offering a deeper connection to the world of wine through its unique partnerships and global events.

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