Food
JOALI BEING welcomes award-winning Chef Bettina Campolucci Bordi for unforgettable sustainability-driven culinary experience
On the pristine isle of Bodufushi in Raa Atoll, JOALI BEING – the first wellbeing island of its kind in the Maldives – is partnering with distinguished plant based and sustainability-led chef, Bettina Campolucci Bordi of Bettina’s Kitchen, this festive season.
An authority on green cuisine, Bettina’s residency will encompass a community cooking workshop for women from the archipelago’s island of Dhuvaafaru – in support of local NGO, Dhuvaafaru Zuvaanunge Jamiyyaa – as well as an exclusive dining experience and a cooking workshop for sojourners staying within the Maldivian oasis; both hosted by the culinary aesthete herself.
The intimate workshop – taking place on 30 December at The Culinary Learning Centre is in support of JOALI BEING’s ‘Joy of Empowering Women through Farming’ initiative, which aims to provide training and raise awareness about installing hydroponic systems within the home, enabling women to grow vegetables and generate income. The selection of participants will be a collaborative effort between the Dhuvaafaru Women’s Development Committee and the NGO.
The imaginative JOALI BEING x Bettina’s Kitchen dining experience – exhibiting the visionary’s eco-conscious artistry – will take place on 29 December at FLOW Restaurant traversing a menu that boasts a significant focus on foraged ingredients, locally sourced where possible. From a three-way pumpkin platter to a Garden of JOALI celebration of vegan fare, to an adaptogenic sweet concoction of cacao nibs, chocolate mousse and aquafaba meringue, the spread is sure to tantalise the palates of island residents.
“It’s truly an honour to unite with JOALI BEING as we craft a menu that’s a testament to sustainability, harnessing the bounty of local, seasonal produce. Every dish is not just a meal, but a story – influenced by culture, the beauty around us, and the heart of each ingredient. Together, in our workshops, we’ll explore and celebrate the magic of plant-based cuisine, igniting passion and curiosity in every bite,” says Bettina Campolucci Bordi.
JOALI BEING was designed to seamlessly blend with its natural surroundings; architects worked in unison with multidisciplinary design studio, Autoban, and interior design company, Atolye 4N – who also led the design concept of sister destination, JOALI Maldives – to preserve the local landscape with the goal to achieve harmony by eliminating negative vibrations and enhancing the energy flow of the island; whilst ensuring the forest and wildlife remained untouched.
At the heart of JOALI BEING is modern science and long-honoured traditions aimed at guiding residents on a journey of self-discovery and transcendence. Alongside 33 design-led beach villas, 35 over-water villas surrounded by crystalline lagoons amidst glorious tropical nature, and a plethora of elevated treatment rooms, the sanctum encompasses an on-site herbology centre, AKTAR, allowing JOALI BEING’S herbalist to create natural remedies, spices and essential oils for guests to enjoy. FLOW is the island’s open-plan interactive dining space, featuring three signature kitchens: SU serves ocean-to-table pescatarian cuisine; Plantae offers nourishing vegetarian and vegan gastronomy; and B’Well features JOALI BEING’s signature menu with meat and poultry options. The destination is also home to SAI tea lounge where guests are invited to explore an incredible range of homemade brews and take part in traditional ceremonies hosted by JOALI BEING’s resident tea sommelier. Meanwhile, Teppanyaki offers a private dining experience that celebrates the ‘Joy of Weightlessness – a feeling of freedom, lightness and wonder’. Astonishing views of the Gate of Zero set the stage for artistry at the grill, or guests may opt for dining on a secluded sea bank or within the bespoke wooden carved Turtle Treehouse.
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.
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.
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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