Gastronomy
Exquisite culinary delights with celebrated chef Nelly Robinson at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
Experience a culinary extravaganza like no other as renowned Australian chef, Nelly Robinson, graces the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort from September 1st to 4th. Prepare to be enchanted by his masterful island-inspired creations, available as a la carte options and an expertly curated tasting menu, exclusively crafted for guests to savour.
Nestled at the idyllic Southernmost tip of Raa Atoll, on the fringes of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and encompassing its own breathtaking lagoon, this luxury resort has become a coveted haven for global culinary talents. Adding to its esteemed roster of culinary experts, the resort eagerly awaits the arrival of Chef Nelly Robinson, ready to captivate taste buds with his exceptional skills.
Distinguished not only for its exceptional dining experiences but also for its commitment to sustainability, the resort is a beacon of eco-consciousness. Spearheading manta ray research, implementing sustainable waste initiatives, and fostering recycling programs, it sets an admirable example for responsible tourism. In addition, the resort hosts wellness practitioners and resident chefs, inviting a diverse range of individuals to bask in its warm embrace. Exploring the resort’s culinary offerings, guests will discover six exquisite restaurants and bars, each with its own unique charm. Among them, The Lighthouse steals the spotlight, boasting a panoramic 360-degree view of the resort and the glistening Indian Ocean below. Indulge in the finest seasonal ingredients and delectable seafood as you dine inside, under the starry sky on the terrace, or savour an intimate culinary experience right on the beach.
Chef Nelly Robinson’s culinary journey was shaped by his early encounters with local and seasonal ingredients, a philosophy that has guided him throughout his illustrious career. Familiar with the discerning palates of esteemed critics from The Guide Michelin and Gault & Millau, Robinson has earned accolades for his mouthwatering creations at his esteemed Sydney restaurant, ‘NEL.’
Now, Chef Nelly Robinson embarks on a gastronomic adventure to the secluded island of Maamunagau in Raa Atoll, bringing his innovative and boundary-pushing cuisine to The Lighthouse. Amidst the captivating backdrop of the Indian Ocean, resort guests can anticipate a feast for the senses. Prepare to indulge in Kingfish Firebark, Wildfire Spiced Barramundi, and Robinson’s tantalising interpretation of Kedgeree, just to name a few highlights from his exquisite menu. Furthermore, guests can savor succulent lamb, local lobster delicacies, and an array of uniquely crafted vegetarian dishes during their stay at The Lighthouse, experiencing the epitome of culinary delight.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to embark on a culinary odyssey with Chef Nelly Robinson at the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort. Immerse yourself in a symphony of flavours, an unforgettable experience amidst paradise’s embrace.
Drink
French winemaker Pascal Jolivet to lead wine-pairing dinner at Milaidhoo Maldives
Milaidhoo Maldives will welcome French winemaker Pascal Jolivet to the island for an exclusive five-course wine-pairing dinner on 4 December, where guests will have the chance to meet him in person, discover his wines and hear more about his approach to winemaking.
Known for his distinctive wines from France’s Loire Valley, Pascal Jolivet will personally present a selection from his collection throughout the evening. Each wine will be paired with a specially created course, bringing together carefully prepared dishes and wines chosen to complement their flavours.
The selection will include Sancerre Signature 2023, Pouilly-Fumé Indigène 2023, Attitude Pinot Noir 2024 and Sancerre Rosé 2024, giving guests the chance to discover different styles from the winemaker’s collection.
Founded in 1987, Pascal Jolivet’s wine house has become well regarded for its approach to expressing the natural character of the Loire Valley’s vineyards. His wines are particularly recognised for their freshness, precision and elegance.
At Milaidhoo, food and wine are an important part of island life. With a strong focus on quality ingredients, varied culinary experiences and a carefully selected wine collection, the island attracts guests who appreciate good food and fine wines.
Nikhil Bakle, Resident Wine Sommelier at Milaidhoo Maldives, says: “What makes an evening like this special is the chance to go beyond the wine in the glass. Having Pascal with us means guests can hear directly from the winemaker, learn about his approach and discover what goes into each bottle. It is also a lovely opportunity to explore how these wines complement the food.”
Set in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, the evening will bring together good food, exceptional wines and the chance to meet the man behind the label, making it a special occasion for wine lovers visiting Milaidhoo.
Read more about Milaidhoo’s culinary offering here.
Drink
Milaidhoo Maldives celebrates International Men’s Day with ‘Gentlemen & Cocktails’
Milaidhoo Maldives will mark International Men’s Day with a cocktail-making competition for male guests, as the resort celebrates its tenth anniversary this November.
The occasion will also recognise the contributions of the men involved in the resort’s development and operations over the past decade. Since its establishment, Milaidhoo has maintained a focus on Maldivian hospitality and cultural traditions, with its original vision continuing to influence the guest experience.
As part of the celebrations, the resort will host Gentlemen & Cocktails, an interactive cocktail-making challenge at Compass Pool Bar.
The event will begin with a workshop led by the bar’s bartenders, who will introduce participants to the fundamentals of cocktail preparation. Following the workshop, participants will compete to create their own signature cocktails using a selection of ingredients.
Each participant will receive a black box containing secret ingredients, which must be incorporated into their creation. They will also be required to select an additional herb, vegetable or aromatic ingredient from the resort’s Chef’s Garden.
Participants will have a limited amount of time to prepare their cocktails, with their partners serving as judges. The creations will be assessed based on flavour, presentation and originality.
The winning cocktail will be featured as the Cocktail of the Day at Compass Pool Bar for one week. The winning couple will also be entitled to unlimited servings of their creation for the remainder of their stay.
The International Men’s Day celebrations form part of Milaidhoo Maldives’ tenth anniversary year, recognising the people who have contributed to the resort’s development and its approach to hospitality.
Through the cocktail-making competition, the resort aims to provide guests with an interactive experience while commemorating International Men’s Day.
Cooking
Sirru Fen Fushi welcomes back Chef Tristan Brandt for exclusive festive dining experiences
Following a successful residency at Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, the resort’s acclaimed Sirru Icons Series welcomes back Chef Tristan Brandt, one of Europe’s most acclaimed culinary talents and formerly Germany’s youngest two-Michelin-starred chef, for an exclusive festive season residency.
Renowned for his contemporary interpretation of French gastronomy, Chef Tristan has earned international recognition for combining classical technique, exceptional ingredients, and global influences to create refined dining experiences. Having trained under some of Germany’s most respected culinary masters, including Harald Wohlfahrt, and led acclaimed restaurants across Germany and Switzerland, he continues to be recognised as one of Europe’s leading culinary figures.

Set against the backdrop of the Maldives’ pristine natural beauty, Chef Tristan’s return residency offers guests a rare opportunity to experience the cuisine of one of Europe’s leading chefs in an intimate island setting.
As part of The Constellations of Moments, Sirru Fen Fushi’s festive season programme, Chef Tristan’s return brings a world-class gastronomic dimension to a season dedicated to celebration, discovery, and meaningful connections beneath the Maldivian sky.
Following the success of their previous collaboration, Chef Tristan Brandt will once again join forces with Sirru Fen Fushi’s Executive Chef Girish Sharma for an exclusive Six-Course Four Hands Dinner at Azure Restaurant on 29 December 2026. Showcasing Chef Tristan’s signature blend of French culinary craftsmanship and international influences alongside locally inspired flavours, the evening promises a refined gastronomic journey celebrating creativity, technique, and exceptional ingredients. Set within Azure’s elegant overwater setting, guests will enjoy an immersive dining experience where each course reflects the artistry and vision of two accomplished chefs.

To welcome the New Year, Chef Tristan will present an exclusive Signature Four-Course Dinner at Azure on 2 January 2027. Carefully curated to reflect his celebrated culinary philosophy, the menu will showcase refined flavour compositions, sophisticated techniques, and exceptional ingredients inspired by modern French gastronomy and global influences. The experience offers guests a rare opportunity to discover the creativity and precision that have earned Chef Tristan international acclaim.
Located within one of the Maldives’ largest natural lagoons, Sirru Fen Fushi offers a distinctive blend of luxury, nature, and discovery. Through the Sirru Icons Series, the resort continues to bring internationally acclaimed talents to the island, creating meaningful experiences that connect guests with exceptional people, cultures, and ideas.
Building on the success of his previous residency, Chef Tristan’s return further reflects Sirru Fen Fushi’s commitment to curating exceptional experiences through long-standing collaborations with internationally acclaimed talents.

Set within the tranquil beauty of the resort’s natural island surroundings, Chef Tristan Brandt’s residency promises unforgettable moments where elevated gastronomy meets barefoot luxury, offering discerning travellers an extraordinary culinary experience in one of the Maldives’ most inspiring destinations.
For further information and reservations, please visit the resort’s official website or contact reservations@sirrufenfushi.com.
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