Fushifaru Maldives has appointed Francesco Cavarretta as its Director of Food and Beverage.

In his new position, Francesco will oversee the food and beverage operations, private dining and create curated dining experiences for all guests. He will introduce a new Italian dining concept and revamp the menu to keep traditional methods of cooking combined with fresh seafood from the sea, good quality produce and most importantly maintaining the balance of good taste and flavour.

“Following the Italian tradition of keeping things fresh and simple, guests will also be able to explore and taste traditional Divehi cuisine during their stay,” Francesco was quoted in a statement, as saying.

Francesco is an experienced chef with over 20 years of culinary experience in the food and beverage industry.

Born in the charming fishing hamlet of Pizzo, Calabria in 1975, Francesco’s journey started in 1998 when he left his hometown in search of an opportunity as a chef where he would be able to share his love of cooking after learning the traditional art of Italian home-cooking from his grandmother. Francesco honed his skills in the kitchen under Chef Alfredo Prostamo at Il Vicolo where he first became a Commis Chef.

Following his passion for food, he moved to the Canary Islands in Tenerife where he was given the opportunity to manage his kitchen and learn the basics of Spanish cuisine with tapas, paella and grilling fresh seafood. His next adventure took him to Livorno, Italy where he moved up the ranks to become the Head Chef and appeared on national television on ‘Taste of Channel 5’ to showcase his original Italian recipes.

Francesco’s yearn for international experience led him to Dubai and most recently to Phuket where he spearheaded major advancements both in and out of the kitchen as F&B Manager/Executive Chef and as a hotel owner.

“We are delighted to welcome Francesco to Fushifaru Maldives,” Ahmed Siaar, General Manager Fushifaru Maldives, said.

“His knowledge in the kitchen combined with his hands-on approach will allow him to satisfy our guests’ palates and offer unique dining experiences throughout the island.”

Only a 35-minute breathtaking seaplane flight away from Velana International Airport, Fushifaru Maldives is nestled between a national Marine Protected Area and three of the Maldives’ most iconic dive sites. Fushifaru Maldives is a with an endless promise of adventure, excitement, discovery and serenity all in one diverse landscape.

Merging quintessential Maldivian design with modern aesthetics, this boutique Maldivian chic resort’s 49 beach and water villas exude a sense of cosines yet luxurious in space and amenities. Each of the villas feature open-air bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, private verandas with dining areas and breath-taking views of the surrounding area – some villas feature private plunge pools.

Dining experiences focus on regional and international flavours to suit every taste and dietary requirement. Scrumptious breakfast buffets and palate pleasing international cuisine are offered at Korakali while flavourful Asian delicacies and mouth-watering varieties of freshly caught seafood can be savoured at Raakani. Signature cocktails and detoxtails are complemented by the best sunset views on island whilst lounging by the pool at Fanihandhi. A range of international dishes and snacks can be served straight to the privacy of your villa, 24 hours.

Heylhi Spa has five treatment rooms or sanctuaries that embody the spirit of rejuvenation; a concept inspired by the Cleaner Wrasse fish found commonly throughout the island’s reef. Designed with lush, green surroundings, the spa echoes its name Heylhi, which in Dhivehi refers to jungle-like vegetation found at the shoreline. Each treatment room resembles traditional Maldivian cottages, complete with outdoor garden bathrooms.