Prepare for an unforgettable culinary experience as Michelin-starred chef Maxime Gilbert, renowned for his innovative fusion of global cuisines, makes his eagerly awaited debut at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI from October 4th to 6th, 2024. Chef Maxime will captivate guests with a series of exclusive fine dining events, showcasing a thoughtfully crafted menu inspired by his extensive culinary explorations across France, Hong Kong, Japan, Morocco, and the USA.

Set amidst the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI offers a luxurious haven for those seeking exceptional dining experiences. The resort boasts a variety of bespoke culinary offerings, featuring specialty restaurants and bars that promise unmatched indulgence. At the elegant overwater restaurant ORIGINƎ, guests will embark on a refined dining journey, savouring exquisitely prepared dishes paired with premium wines and champagnes from renowned vineyards—highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.

Adding to the exclusive dining events, Chef Maxime will also host a specialised cooking masterclass. This rare opportunity provides guests with the chance to interact directly with the celebrated chef, gaining unique insights into the art of fine dining and enhancing their stay with unforgettable culinary memories.

“We are thrilled to welcome Chef Maxime Gilbert for a one-of-a-kind gastronomic journey at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI. His global expertise and creative approach to cooking promise an exceptional exploration of flavours and techniques. This exclusive experience reflects our dedication to unparalleled craftsmanship and culinary mastery,” said Anupam Banerjee, Vice President of Food and Beverage.

Chef Maxime brings a wealth of experience and a distinctive culinary vision to the island, ensuring guests an extraordinary dining adventure. With a background in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, he will present a menu that skill-fully blends traditional techniques with innovative flair. Guests can expect dishes that balance simplicity with sophistication, crafted from the finest ingredients sourced globally, resulting in flavours that are bold yet refined.

At ORIGINƎ, diners will be treated to a series of curated dishes that tell a story—each plate a fusion of Chef Maxime’s unique culinary style and his passion for exceptional flavours. Every course promises to delight the senses, offering a true taste of global culinary artistry that only he can deliver. Guests staying on the resort’s signature RESERVE™ plan will have the privilege of enjoying these activities at no additional cost.

This October and November, THE OZEN COLLECTION, celebrated for its top-tier dining experiences, will also host exclusive wine and champagne events across its luxurious private islands, adding to the allure of these unforgettable culinary celebrations.

Experience a truly unique and festive celebration at The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives, where the magic of Diwali comes alive against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean. From October 28 to November 6, guests are invited to celebrate the Festival of Lights with a variety of exciting events and activities that reflect the vibrant spirit of this cherished holiday. The Diwali Carnival at the resort will feature everything from traditional Indian feasts to cultural workshops, dazzling performances, and engaging activities for all ages.

Diwali festivities highlights at The Standard, Maldives:

• Special buffet & traditional welcome – savour a specially curated Diwali menu featuring authentic Indian sweets, starters, and main dishes. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a traditional aarti (ceremonial light) and tika (forehead mark). Diwali-themed cocktails and mocktails will also be available at all resort restaurants.
• Festive décor & photo booth – the resort will be beautifully decorated with diyas (oil lamps), rangoli (intricate floor designs), fairy lights, and flowers, creating a festive atmosphere. From October 28 to November 7, guests can also capture memorable moments at the themed photo booth, complete with traditional costumes and props.
• Cultural workshops & activities – get hands-on with henna art, join a rangoli-making workshop, or participate in a friendly kite-flying competition. Both children and adults can enjoy traditional Indian games like Pithoo (spinning top) and Tambola (Bingo).

Live performances

Enjoy lively folk dances like Garba and classical music recitals that bring the rich cultural traditions of India to life on select dates.

Culinary experiences

For food lovers, The Standard offers a range of culinary delights to celebrate Diwali:

• Kula buffet (November 1): indulge in an Indian buffet corner featuring traditional Diwali sweets, along with authentic starters and main courses.
• Cooking demonstrations (November 5): at Gudu Guda Restaurant, witness cooking demonstrations of popular Diwali treats, followed by lunch. Priced at $45 per person.
• Tea & dessert pairing experience (November 6): at Todis Beach, enjoy a selection of Indian teas like masala chai and cardamom-infused blends paired with festive desserts. Priced at $12 per guest.

Fire show & festive attire contest

Wrap up the festivities on November 1 with a spectacular fire show and a cultural attire contest, where guests can compete for a special prize.

At The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives, the serene and luxurious surroundings perfectly complement the joyous atmosphere of Diwali. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and elegant accommodations, the resort provides the ideal setting for a memorable celebration. Whether enjoying the traditional rituals or indulging in relaxation, guests will experience the vibrant essence of Diwali in a truly unforgettable way.

JA Manafaru is thrilled to announce the launch of its refreshed menus at White Orchid Restaurant, beginning September 10th. This revamped dining experience is set to combine modern Japanese cuisine with a firm commitment to sustainability.

The updated menu boasts standout dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients and sustainable practices:

For entrées, guests can indulge in the Reef Octopus, prepared with ginger, scallion, lemon, soy, mirin salmon roe, chili crisps, sesame, and microgreens freshly harvested from the on-site garden. This farm-to-table approach minimises environmental impact and supports local food practices.

The mains feature the Yellowfin Tuna Steak, accompanied by roasted tuna jus, lemon, teppan-fried onion, broccolini, and a crisp myoga salad. The tuna is freshly caught by local fishermen, ensuring top quality and promoting sustainable seafood practices while supporting the local fishing community.

White Orchid Restaurant’s new menu highlights its commitment to eco-friendly dining. By using homegrown ingredients and collaborating with local fishermen, the restaurant aims to reduce its carbon footprint and source seafood responsibly. Additionally, an Edible Flower Garden has been introduced to enhance the garden-to-table concept with fresh, healthy garnishes.

The restaurant is also unveiling the “Wellness Your Way” menu, which is tailored to various dietary needs. This menu provides delicious and nutritious options for individuals with specific dietary restrictions or anyone seeking healthier choices, aligning with the holistic approach to well-being.

Executive Chef Moosa comments, “The updated menu at White Orchid Restaurant reflects our commitment to modern Japanese cuisine and sustainable dining. We have focused on incorporating fresh, local ingredients like garden microgreens and locally caught tuna to enhance flavor while supporting our community and environment. Each dish is designed to offer a memorable dining experience that celebrates innovation.”

General Manager Jason Kruse adds, “White Orchid’s new menu exemplifies our dedication to excellence and sustainability. By merging modern Japanese cuisine with environmentally conscious practices and offering options for gluten-free, low-carb, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan guests, we are elevating the dining experience in the Maldives. We eagerly anticipate welcoming guests to this fresh and responsible culinary journey.”

Guests are invited to join on September 10th, 2024, to experience this innovative dining offering and discover why White Orchid is a distinguished destination in the Maldives for both exceptional quality and sustainability.