Featured
Soneva Jani collaborates with renowned Swedish Chef Mathias Dahlgren to open new restaurant

With a name inspired by its breath-taking overwater location in Soneva Jani’s lagoon, Overseas by Mathias Dahlgren is the brainchild of the acclaimed Swedish chef and restaurateur.
After visiting Soneva Jani, Mathias fell in love with the location and wanted to celebrate the seafood found in the Indian Ocean and the produce grown in the resort’s organic gardens.

Located by The Gathering, the overwater al fresco restaurant and kitchen has a laid-back atmosphere with uninterrupted views towards the horizon is open for lunch and dinner.
The menu focuses on pescatarian, vegetarian and plant-based dishes, serving a selection of single plates, sharing plates and signature mains for lunch and dinner. The fish and seafood featured on the menu are sustainably caught in local waters, while the organic vegetables, herbs and fruit are freshly picked from Soneva Jani’s own organic gardens.
The menu is split mostly between seafood and vegetarian dishes, while there will be fully plant-based options.

A pre-set menu of Chef’s Choices is the highlight, letting diners try a full range of dishes which includes single plates, sharing plates, signature dishes, an open selection for the main dish and dessert. With the pre-set menu there is a possibility that items from the single dish menu can be added to the meal.
In the Chef’s Choice Dinner set menu expect snack plates like Soy Roasted Macadamia Nuts (plant-based), and Chickpea Crisp and Oyster Leaf Emulation (plant-based). Sharing plates such as Asian Mango and Buffalo Mozzarella with Thai Basil, Olive Oil and Black Pepper (vegetarian), or Sashimi of Raw Smoked Tuna, Soy Mayonnaise, Ginger, Black Radish.

Signature dishes include Charcoal Grilled Fish and Salad Wrap served like Korean Bo Ssam or Black Fermented Bean Stew, Kimchi Pickled Greens, Black Pepper Sauce (vegetarian).
The main course choices include Fried Shrimp with Spicy Glass Noodle Salad and Peanuts and the Hot and Sour Tofu with Grilled Bok Choy (plant-based).
Desserts like the plant-based Avocado, Passion Fruit, Physalis, Kaffir Lime, Vanilla and Mint, or the vegetarian Cherry Sorbet, Tonka Bean, Coconut Ice Cream and Dulce De Leche round off the meal.
There is also a Chef’s Choice lunch menu which consists of single plates, signature dishes, and dessert.

Mathias has been interested in food for as long as he can remember, having learned the connection between food, family, and the land at an early age. He trained as a chef in his hometown of Umeå and has an extensive history of running successful restaurants in Stockholm, including the legendary Bon Lloc, which he ran between 1996 and 2005 and was awarded one Michelin star.
Renowned for his culinary skills and creativity, Mathias’s food philosophy is based on what he calls “the natural cuisine”. In his own words, this builds on “a Swedish identity on a regional platform, creating cuisine that is open for local as well as global ingredients and influences. A cuisine that celebrates the fresh produce of each season.”
Through the years, Mathias has received accolades from both the food industry and international press.
Today, he is still the only Swedish chef to have been awarded the internationally acclaimed “Bocuse d’Or” (at the age of 27), which is the most prestigious gastronomic competition in the world. He is also the sole chef in Sweden to have been named “Chef of Chefs” eight times by Sweden’s top gastronomic colleagues.
Mathias was president of the Swedish Bocuse D’Or Academy for many years and a former professor at University of Umeå.
He is also the author of seven cookbooks.
In 2007, he opened the eponymous Mathias Dahlgren restaurant at the Grand Hôtel, consisting of two restaurant concepts, Matbaren (“the food bar”) for more casual lunches and dinners in a contemporary setting, and Matsalen (“the dining room”) for more elegant evening dining.
In 2008, Matsalen received its first Michelin star, becoming a two-star Michelin restaurant in 2009, at which time Matbaren received one Michelin star.
In 2014, Mathias added a third, innovative concept of Matbordet, Swedish for “the dining table” within Matsalen, where guests ate right in the middle of cooking process.
At the end of 2016, Mathias chose to close Matsalen and Matbordet at the top of their game. The premises underwent an extensive renovation and on February 13, 2017, Mathias opened the new lacto-ovo vegetarian restaurant named Rutabaga, taking green cuisine to a fresh, new and delicious level.
The rutabaga is one of the few vegetables to originate in Sweden, which is why they are called ‘swedes’ in the UK. In North America, France and Italy they call them rutabagas, which comes from the original Swedish term for the vegetable: rotabagge.
He currently runs two restaurants at the Grand Hôtel in Stockholm, the award-winning Matbaren and the vegetarian eatery Rutabaga. He also runs the Green Rabbit rye bread bakery, with focus on rare Swedish grains, in the Norrmalm district of the city.
His establishments are lauded for serving food made using the finest fresh ingredients, along with a focus on outstanding service with a lot of charm.

Soneva Jani is located on the island of Medhufaru within a 5.6-kilometre lagoon in the Noonu atoll, and has uninterrupted ocean views in all directions.
The lagoon is 35 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport, and one hour by speedboat from Soneva Fushi. The recently opened Maafaru International Airport in the Noonu atoll is just a 15-minute complimentary speedboat ride from Soneva Jani.
Meaning ‘wisdom’ in Sanskrit, Soneva Jani currently comprises 24 overwater villas and three island villas, with additional Water Retreats to be built in Chapter Two.
Five islands encircle the lagoon, each one with soft white sands and covered in rich tropical vegetation. Four of the five islands will remain untouched, making Soneva Jani the lowest density development in the Maldives.
The overwater villas are spaced across the expansive lagoon, offering privacy and extensive views over the Maldives’ turquoise waters. The island villas will be tucked into the lush greenery, providing the ultimate privacy, and all within steps of the beach.
Soneva Jani’s main guest facilities are located at The Gathering, the heart of the overwater villas. This dramatic three-story structure is home to the main dining outlets, in addition to the Soneva Spa, library, retail area and wine cellar. It is located next to the Maldives’ first overwater Observatory.
The Crab Shack offers a toes-in-the-sand dining experience that highlights succulently sweet Sri Lankan Mud Crabs, Alaskan King and Kamchatka crabs, and Mediterranean inspired seafood dishes. It was voted the ‘Most Romantic Restaurant in the World’ by CNN.com.
Facilities on the island include the overwater Cinema Paradiso and restaurant by Chef Nikki, the Eco Centro Waste-to-Wealth centre, organic gardens, tennis courts, water sports champa and North Beach on a deserted island in the lagoon.
Featured
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives announces grand opening

Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is preparing for the launch of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, a serene island retreat set to open on April 1st. To commemorate the opening, the resort is offering an exclusive introductory promotion, allowing guests to enjoy a luxurious escape with a range of benefits. The special offer includes Stay 4, Pay 3 and Stay 7, Pay 5 packages, along with exceptional upgrades available for a limited time.
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives is the final addition to Centara’s collection of four distinctive properties in the Maldives, each tailored to different traveller preferences. The resort features 142 elegantly designed beachfront and overwater accommodations that harmonise with the surrounding natural beauty. This private island sanctuary seamlessly merges Thai-inspired hospitality with Maldivian charm, offering world-class dining across multiple restaurants and bars, as well as revitalising wellness experiences at the Spa Cenvaree Retreat.

The opening of this property also marks the completion of The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, a visionary project that aims to redefine experiential travel in the Maldives. As part of this exclusive multi-island destination, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives offers refined tranquility combined with immersive experiences. Guests staying at the resort also have access to the exciting water attractions and vibrant amenities of the neighbouring Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives.
Andrew Jansson, Cluster General Manager of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives & Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming opening, stating, “From our picturesque beachfront and overwater villas to our exquisite dining and holistic wellness journeys, our team has worked tirelessly to ensure every aspect of this magnificent property exceeds expectations. We look forward to offering travellers a truly distinctive experience that captures the essence of both Centara’s signature warm hospitality and the beauty of this Maldivian paradise.”
To celebrate the grand opening, Centara Hotels & Resorts is inviting guests to take advantage of the Grand Island Indulgence: Exclusive Introductory Offer. Bookings made before June 30th, 2025, for stays between April 1st and October 15th, 2025, will qualify for the Stay 4, Pay 3 or Stay 7, Pay 5 packages. The offer also includes meal plan upgrades, complimentary sparkling wine and couples’ massages, exclusive access to The Club, a choice of an ocean excursion, and additional perks for CentaraThe1 members.
Featured
Embrace Maldives’ hidden summer with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts

Beyond the well-known winter appeal of the Maldives lies an underrated gem—summer. From May to October, the islands transform into a sanctuary of intimate escapes, breathtaking marine encounters, and uninterrupted tranquillity, offering a side of the Maldives that remains one of travel’s best-kept secrets. This year, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts invites travellers to rediscover summer in the Maldives through curated experiences across its four island resorts, each tailored to romance, diving, adventure, and relaxation.
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives provides an ideal setting for couples seeking a romantic summer retreat. Overwater bungalows offer a tranquil atmosphere, where the gentle lapping of waves sets a soothing rhythm for the days ahead. For those desiring an exclusive adults-only escape, Platinum Island offers elevated privacy and sophistication, creating the perfect environment for seclusion. As the sun sets, private sandbank dinners and candlelit beachside feasts transform ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.
For diving enthusiasts, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon offers an unparalleled underwater experience. Home to one of the Maldives’ most vibrant house reefs and in close proximity to iconic dive sites, Ellaidhoo provides exceptional opportunities for marine exploration. Divers can witness the Maldives’ marine life in its full splendour, and encounters with Tripod, the island’s beloved three-finned turtle, add a unique charm to every dive. Whether exploring the legendary house reef or venturing to sites such as Fish Head and Maaya Thila, every descent promises an awe-inspiring glimpse into the ocean’s wonders.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives serves as the ultimate summer playground for thrill-seekers, where the ocean’s energy meets endless opportunities for adventure. Home to the world-renowned surf break, Pasta Point, the island attracts seasoned surfers eager to ride its perfectly peeling waves. Beyond surfing, the resort offers an array of exhilarating water sports, including jet skiing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, ensuring every adrenaline-seeker finds an activity suited to their passion. Whether carving through the waves or speeding across crystal-clear waters, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives encapsulates the thrill of ocean adventure.
Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives redefines summer living, blending stylish beachfront retreats with effortless indulgence. Days unfold at a leisurely pace, with sun-drenched afternoons by the infinity pool, gourmet dining that highlights the flavours of the sea, revitalising spa treatments, and sunrise yoga sessions designed to awaken the senses. Whether savouring exquisitely crafted dishes, indulging in personalised wellness experiences, or simply embracing the island’s serenity, Velifushi offers an escape where time slows down, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the art of island living.
Far from the winter crowds, summer in the Maldives reveals a season of untold beauty, where the rhythm of the waves sets the pace for unforgettable experiences. Whether diving into vibrant marine ecosystems, embracing barefoot luxury, or savoring moments of pure tranquillity, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives welcomes travellers to uncover one of the islands’ best-kept secrets
Cooking
Michelin magic in Maldives: Chef Wassim Hallal’s spring residency at Soneva Fushi

Danish chef Wassim Hallal will be hosting an exclusive residency at Soneva Fushi’s Flying Sauces from March 17 to May 12, 2025, bringing his two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Frederikshøj, to the world’s first fine dining zipline experience. As spring unfolds in the Maldives, guests will have the opportunity to soar along a 200-meter zipline route to reach an elevated dining platform, where breathtaking views, intuitive service, and Hallal’s masterful culinary creations await.
A pioneer of modern Nordic cuisine, Hallal’s passion for gastronomy has driven him to redefine fine dining in Denmark. His culinary journey began at a young age, leading him to refine his craft in some of Europe’s most prestigious kitchens. Under his leadership, Frederikshøj in Aarhus has earned two Michelin stars, recognized for its innovative approach, precision, and use of the finest seasonal ingredients.
During his highly anticipated spring residency at Soneva Fushi, Hallal will bring the essence of Frederikshøj to the Maldives, offering an unforgettable tasting experience that merges contemporary Nordic techniques with the island’s exceptional organic produce. His culinary philosophy pays tribute to the natural world, shaped by his environment and the evolving landscape of modern gastronomy. His style masterfully balances the refinement of French haute cuisine with the boundary-pushing creativity of New Nordic cooking, infused with global influences that drive his innovation.
At Frederikshøj, his commitment to excellence is evident in the meticulous selection of the finest local ingredients. A true culinary craftsman, he embraces experimentation, constantly redefining flavour, texture, and technique to create dishes that leave a lasting impression. Each plate serves as a canvas—an expression of creativity, refinement, and evolution—always seeking to push the boundaries of what is possible.
While in the Maldives, Hallal and his team will seamlessly blend Frederikshøj’s distinctive culinary ethos with Soneva Fushi’s organic seasonal produce, crafting a two-Michelin-starred dining experience designed to surprise, delight, and linger in the memories of guests long after the final course.
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