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.
Food
Michelin-starred Chef Charles Coulombeau to host exclusive residency at V Villas Maldives at Mirihi
V Villas Maldives at Mirihi – MGallery Collection will welcome Michelin-starred French chef Charles Coulombeau from 26 to 28 November 2026.
The three-day programme opens with sunset cocktails and canapés, followed by a fine dining evening at Muraka Restaurant and a special cooking class with the chef.
Coulombeau leads the kitchen at La Maison dans le Parc in Nancy, France, which holds one Michelin star. His cooking pairs modern French technique with influences from his time in Japan, bringing ingredients such as citrus and seaweed into dishes shaped by seasonal produce.
The culinary programme:
- Thursday, 26 November | Sunset cocktails and canapés. The programme opens with sunset cocktails and Michelin-inspired canapés, offering guests a first taste of the chef’s approach ahead of Friday’s fine dining event.
- Friday, 27 November | Fine dining at Muraka Restaurant. Coulombeau will present a special dinner at the resort’s overwater Muraka Restaurant, where guests can experience his modern French cooking overlooking the Indian Ocean.
- Saturday, 28 November | Special Cooking Class. Guests will have the opportunity to learn directly from Coulombeau and explore some of the techniques behind his cooking.
V Villas Maldives at Mirihi – MGallery Collection offers an intimate island retreat in the Maldives, with beach and overwater accommodation, dining overlooking the ocean, and experiences on and beneath the water.
Drink
V Villas Maldives at Mirihi announces exclusive wine Dinner with Hunter’s Wines
V Villas Maldives at Mirihi – MGallery Collection will host an exclusive Hunter’s Wine Dinner on Monday, 16 November 2026, inviting guests to experience an evening of fine wine, thoughtful gastronomy and personal storytelling from one of Marlborough’s pioneering family-owned wineries.
The evening will be hosted by James Macdonald, Chief Operating Officer and Senior Winemaker at Hunter’s Wines, alongside Chelsea Macdonald and sommelier Khail van Niekerk of Grape Expectations Maldives.
Part of the founding family, James holds a degree in Oenology and Viticulture from Lincoln University and has completed several vintages overseas. Today, he helps lead Hunter’s Wines while preserving the winery’s signature Marlborough character and guiding its continued evolution.
Founded in 1979 by Ernie and Jane Hunter, Hunter’s is Marlborough’s oldest independent winery under continuous family ownership. Its internationally recognized wines reflect more than four decades of winemaking expertise, innovation and respect for the land.
For this special occasion, the culinary team at V Villas Maldives at Mirihi will present a curated menu designed to complement a selection of Hunter’s wines. The featured collection is expected to include MiruMiru sparkling wine, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Rose, Pinot Noir and Gewurztraminer, guiding guests through the diversity and distinctive character of Marlborough.
Throughout the dinner, James will share the stories behind the wines, the Hunter family journey and the winemaking philosophy that has helped establish Marlborough as one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions.
“V Villas Maldives at Mirihi is committed to creating memorable experiences that connect our guests with exceptional personalities, craftsmanship and stories from around the world. We are delighted to welcome James and Chelsea Macdonald and to offer our guests an intimate discovery of Hunter’s Wines in the distinctive setting of Mirihi” said Mohamed Shareef, General Manager of V Villas Maldives at Mirihi – MGallery Collection.
The event reflects the resort’s approach to experiential dining, where refined cuisine, a carefully curated wine programme and Mirihi’s intimate island atmosphere come together to create meaningful moments for guests.
V Villas Maldives at Mirihi – MGallery Collection is an intimate private-island resort in South Ari Atoll. Set amid a renowned house reef and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives, the resort brings together contemporary island living, personalized service, distinctive culinary experiences and meaningful encounters inspired by the spirit of Mirihi.
The resort features 42 villas, two restaurants, AKOYA Sea Lounge, Mirihi Spa, a wine cellar offering more than 300 labels, and a collection of ocean, wellness and cultural experiences.
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.
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