Food
JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa’s Week of Gastronomic Bliss with Michelin Star Chef Bernd Bachofer and Winemaker Kai Schubert

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa recently concluded its remarkable week of gastronomic excellence in collaboration with Michelin-starred Chef Bernd Bachofer and renowned winemaker Kai Schubert. This exclusive event, which took place from October 4 to October 8, brought together culinary enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs for an unforgettable experience.
Hailing from the distinguished Bachofer restaurant in Germany, Chef Bernd Bachofer’s culinary journey is a blend of French haute cuisine and diverse Asian influences. On the other hand, award-winning winemaker Kai ventured to New Zealand to establish the renowned boutique winery, Schubert Wines. Kai’s wines, including his iconic Pinot Noir, have consistently ranked among the finest in New Zealand, making him a true visionary in the world of oenology.
Guests at the resort were treated to a series of exclusive events, each offering a unique culinary and oenological journey:
Exclusive Collaboration with Kai Schubert at RIHA
The gastronomic week kicked off at RIHA, the new destination dining and private experience at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa. The menu featured a blend of exquisite ingredients, including gourmet products such as foie gras, scallops, lobster, and wagyu beef, all paired with selected Schubert wines, and was personally hosted by the visionary winemaker himself.

Michelin Star Dinners, hosted by Chef Bernd Bachofer and Kai Schubert
The highlight of the week was on October 5 and 6, when guests were treated to an exceptional dining experience featuring a limited-time menu crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Bernd Bachofer and winemaker Kai Schubert. From langoustines in tempura batter with Thai basil gel and pak choi to scallops with Japanese hollandaise and shiitake dim sum and Wagyu short ribs with green curry, smoked potato cream, and yuzu melon, each dish was expertly paired with wine varieties selected by Kai Schubert.
Private Masterclass and Wine Tasting with Kai Schubert
On October 7, guests had the opportunity to participate in a private masterclass with winemaker Kai Schubert. This was an opportunity to delve into the art of winemaking and appreciate the nuances of his exceptional wine production.
Mohit Dembla, Resort Manager of JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, expressed his excitement, saying, “We are delighted to have hosted this collaboration between Michelin-starred chef Bernd Bachofer and winemaker Kai Schubert. It was a week filled with gastronomic excellence and fine wines, and I’m sure it left our guests with unforgettable memories.”
Cooking
Ifuru Island Maldives’ Social House introduces authentic Indian Thali experience

Ifuru Island Maldives has unveiled its newest culinary journey: the Indian Thali at Social House. This signature dining experience pays homage to the vibrant flavours, diversity, and cultural warmth of Indian cuisine, reimagined in the heart of the Maldives.
Inspired by Ayurveda’s Six Taste Theory, the Indian Thali is designed to provide a perfectly balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul. Guests can savour an array of authentic dishes that reflect India’s culinary soul, presented with the modern flair and island elegance that define Ifuru Island.

The Thali includes a generous spread of delights such as Jhinga Laziz, Butter Chicken, Boti Masala, Dal Makhani, Palak Paneer, Chana Masala, Tomato Rasam, served alongside Jeera Rice, Paratha, Mango Chutney, Masala Onion, Papadum, and a decadent Gulab Jamun Cheesecake.
“Crafting this Indian Thali has been a labour of love,” says Nadedja Bouacha, Executive Chef at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Each element is carefully prepared to honour India’s diverse culinary heritage while offering our guests a rich, comforting, and authentic experience in a setting as extraordinary as our island.”
The Indian Thali is now available at Social House, the resort’s popular dining venue known for blending global flavors with local flair and laid-back luxury.
Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or a first-time explorer, the Indian Thali at Ifuru Island is a celebration of culture, taste, and mindful eating.
Drink
Master Sommelier Kamal Malik to host exclusive dinner at Ithaa Underwater Gem

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is set to host an exclusive champagne pairing dinner at its iconic Ithaa Underwater Gem on 23 May 2025. Leading the experience is Kamal Malik, India’s only Master Sommelier and judge for the 2025 Decanter World Wine Awards.
Guests will indulge in a specially curated six-course menu featuring refined dishes from land and sea, each paired with a selection of Ruinart’s elegant cuvées—including Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blanc and Rosé. This one-night-only event offers a rare opportunity to experience expert wine pairing in one of the world’s most unique dining settings, five meters below the ocean’s surface.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 world-class brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can’t be found anywhere else and free standard WiFi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room and access their room using Digital Key.
For more information or to book your experience, please visit www.conradmaldives.com or email mlehi.experiences@conradhotels.com or contact +960 6680629.
Cooking
Gluten-free, vegan baking takes centre stage in Maldives with BBM, IREKS

Renowned Master Baker Steven Selvamuthu from IREKS is currently in the Maldives, leading a specialised baking demo tour focused on gluten-free and vegan baked goods. The initiative, organised by Bestbuy Maldives (BBM), is running from May 3rd to 15th and is covering over 10 leading resorts along with professional bakers in Malé.
Through hands-on sessions and live demonstrations, Chef Steven is sharing innovative techniques and versatile recipes tailored to modern dietary trends, while also addressing real-world challenges faced by professional kitchens.
Sharing his experience so far, Chef Steven said: “The growing interest in gluten-free and vegan baking here is truly inspiring. Maldivian chefs are open-minded, eager to learn, and ready to embrace global trends without compromising on quality or flavour.”
This ongoing collaboration between IREKS and BBM reflects a shared commitment to professional development in the region’s foodservice industry. By introducing modern baking solutions and supporting skill-building at the grassroots level, the initiative is adding value to both local talent and resort kitchens.
A.V.S. Subrahmanyam, Chief Operating Officer at BBM, added: “As consumer preferences evolve, we want to ensure that Maldivian chefs are equipped to meet those expectations with confidence. Our partnership with IREKS reflects BBM’s mission to bring world-class expertise and ingredients closer to the local culinary community.”
With rising demand for inclusive and health-conscious bakery options, the ongoing tour is playing a key role in empowering chefs across the Maldives to stay ahead in a rapidly shifting global food landscape.
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