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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef Maldives Spotlights Its Culinary Maestro Executive Chef Nitin and His Gut Healing Thali Dinner Experience
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, renowned for its naturally playful ambiance and exceptional hospitality, proudly shines a spotlight on its esteemed Executive Chef Nitin and his special gut healing and immunity boosting Thali Dinner Experience.
With an impressive tenure of three years with the Vilu Reef resort team, Chef Nitin has continuously elevated culinary experiences, setting new standards of excellence. Chef Nitin’s culinary prowess extends beyond accolades, as demonstrated by his unique approach to crafting a special Thali dinner experience that showcases North Indian cuisines, combining authenticity and health.

The Thali incorporates a unique blend of Indian and herb spices, including turmeric, ginger, garlic, cumin, black pepper, coriander, clove, mac, cinnamon, fenugreek, asafetida, ashwagandha, cow desi ghee, saffron, cardamom, and more. This combination not only boosts immunity but is also beneficial for the intestine and gut. This dinner experience, carefully curated with meticulously chosen ingredients, reflects Chef Nitin’s belief in the Spice Health Concept, emphasizing the overall health benefits of each component.
Chef Nitin shares, “Our special Thali dinner is more than a meal; it’s a journey for your healthy intestine. We believe in using a combination of Indian and other unique herb spices to boost immunity, promote gut health, and enhance overall well-being.”
The special Thali dinner is available at The Spice restaurant every Wednesday for USD90 per person and it includes:
Table Amenities – A Journey for Your Healthy Intestine:
- Pineapple Relish: Rich in antioxidants and bromelain enzyme, aiding in heart health and reducing inflammation.
- Beetroot, Clove Fruit Vinegar Chutney: High in fiber, promoting the growth of good bacteria in the gut, and containing good sugars for internal healing.
- Black Garlic Yoghurt: With prebiotic properties, stimulating appetite and contributing to gut health.
Amuse Bouche: Regenerate Your Body
- Gluten-Free Pani Puri with 03 Different Shots
- Tangy Green Apple and Mint Water: Rich in Vitamins A & C, acting as antioxidants to prevent cancer cell formation.
- Beetroot and Basil Water: Anti-inflammatory properties for rejuvenation.
- Young Turmeric Water: Antioxidant-rich, aiding the body in combating inflammation.
Even after more than two decades in the industry, Chef Nitin’s unwavering passion for food and service remains palpable, creating an atmosphere where his love for the culinary arts is almost tangible. Chef Nitin graciously extends beyond the confines of his kitchen to engage with guests at each restaurant in Vilu Reef, actively seeking their feedback to ensure a delightful dining experience for everyone in his restaurant. His warm and friendly demeanour shines through as he provides personalized attention to guests with special requests, consistently delivering with a joyful spirit. Chef Nitin’s passion is evident not only in his culinary creations but also in his generous willingness to share his recipes with guests. With a genuine concern for customer feedback, he embraces opportunities for improvement, continuously striving to elevate and refine his cuisines for the utmost satisfaction of his guests.
Hailing from a distinguished career that spans across the culinary landscapes of Germany, France, U.S.A, Canada, Italy, Mexico, Jamaica, Maldives, and Thailand, Chef Nitin’s global culinary odyssey has bestowed upon him a wealth of knowledge and expertise.
Chef Nitin’s journey is punctuated by prestigious accolades, including the title of the 2nd Best Chef in the India Chapter at the Bocuse d’Or 2012 World Chef’s Championship. His commitment to culinary excellence is evident through his participation in workshops with luminaries like the revered French 3 Michelin stars Chef George Blanc. Additionally, his collaborations with Italian 2 Michelin star Chef Fabrizio Marino and German 2 Michelin star Chef Gassner Rainer further highlight his dedication to the craft.
A proud member of the Indian Federation of Culinary Association and a certified trainer from Carlson Hotel Worldwide, Chef Nitin’s influence extends beyond his culinary prowess. His commitment to innovation and excellence is complemented by a passion for nurturing talent, making him not only a Head Chef but a dynamic force within the Sun Siyam Vilu Reef family.
For three years, Chef Nitin has been the guiding force behind our culinary endeavors, elevating the resort’s dining experiences to unparalleled levels. His leadership and dedication have truly made a lasting mark, shaping Sun Siyam Vilu Reef as a beacon of culinary brilliance.
Featured
The Standard, Maldives unveils new Premium All-Inclusive package
The Standard, Maldives has announced the launch of a new Premium All-Inclusive experience from May 2026, introducing an enhanced offering aimed at travellers seeking a seamless island holiday in Raa Atoll.
The resort said the new package was designed to combine dining, experiences and entertainment with the natural setting of the Maldives. It added that the offering had been curated with Indian travellers in mind, as India continues to grow as a source market for Maldivian tourism.
The package begins with champagne on arrival and includes access to dining across the resort’s outlets. Guests will be able to choose from three restaurants for lunch and five restaurants for dinner with prior reservation. The resort said the dining programme would range from Mediterranean dishes at Onda to Maldivian cuisine at Guduguda, offering guests a varied culinary experience throughout their stay.
The package also includes a beverage programme featuring premium spirits, wines, cocktails and beers, as well as a fully stocked minibar in each villa.
The culinary programme is led by Director of Culinary Nandakumar Dharuman. The resort said his Indian background adds familiarity for Indian travellers, with Indian breakfast options available alongside international selections. Vegetarian and Jain meals can also be prepared on request.
The Standard, Maldives said the resort would continue to offer a lively atmosphere through activities held during the week, including DJ nights, fire dance performances, bingo evenings and other social events. Breakfast DJ sessions are also part of the programme. In addition, guests booking the Premium All-Inclusive package will receive one complimentary 30-minute spa treatment and one island excursion.
Sonika Adlakha, commercial director of The Standard, Maldives, said India remained an important and growing market for the resort. She said the new Premium All-Inclusive experience was intended to offer Indian travellers a stay that combined dining, entertainment and the natural appeal of the Maldives.
Alongside its social spaces, the resort said it also offers quieter areas for guests seeking a more relaxed experience. All villas at the property include private pools and spacious living areas, allowing guests to stay close to the resort’s dining and entertainment facilities while also enjoying privacy.
Cooking
Kandolhu Maldives announces culinary collaboration with Chef Fabrizio Zanetti
Following a season of culinary collaborations, Kandolhu Maldives has announced that Executive Chef Fabrizio Zanetti will visit the resort this October for a series of dining events.
The resort said the programme would offer guests an opportunity to experience Zanetti’s cuisine through a number of exclusive dining experiences.
Originally from St Moritz, Zanetti has led the kitchens at Hotel Suvretta House in St Moritz for more than a decade. The five-star Suvretta House, built in 1912 by Swiss hotelier Anton Bon, recently opened a new 4,670-square metre spa for the 2025-2026 winter season.
Zanetti has also worked at Michelin-starred establishments including Baur au Lac in Zurich and Savoy Grill in London. His work has been recognised with 17 points in the Gault-Millau Guide 2025 and the Mérite Culinaire Suisse award. In 2024, he was also named Gault-Millau Rising Star of the Year.
The collaboration at Kandolhu Maldives will begin on Wednesday, 14 October, with a three-course à la carte lunch at The Market.
A four-course dinner will follow on Saturday, 17 October, at Olive Restaurant. The evening will begin with a meet-and-greet with Chef Zanetti before dinner is served.
On Wednesday, 21 October, Olive Restaurant will also host a five-course Wine and Dine event, which will include a personal introduction from the chef.
Kandolhu Maldives said each evening event at Olive Restaurant would be limited to 22 guests, offering an intimate dining setting overlooking the Indian Ocean. The resort has encouraged guests to reserve early for the programme.
Featured
Coco Collection brings conservation and low-waste living into resort experience
Coco Collection, a Maldivian-owned resort brand, has invited guests to experience a more conscious approach to luxury at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu and Coco Bodu Hithi.
Across its two island resorts, Coco Collection has incorporated environmental responsibility into the guest experience through its Coco Cares philosophy. From nature-led experiences inspired by the islands’ ecosystems to culinary offerings based on fresh, locally grown ingredients, the resorts have been designed to reflect the natural setting of the Maldives while integrating sustainability into daily operations.
At Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, this commitment is reflected in the Maldives’ veterinary-led Marine Turtle Rescue Centre, which is operated in partnership with the Olive Ridley Project. As a founding partner of the facility, the resort provides care for injured sea turtles and supports marine conservation awareness. Since its establishment, the centre has treated and released 152 injured turtles, with a rehabilitation success rate of 60%. The resort also continues seagrass preservation efforts aimed at protecting marine habitats and supporting biodiversity in the surrounding waters.
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu also applies low-waste practices, mindful sourcing, and resource-conscious operations across the resort. This approach extends to Coco Farm, where homegrown produce, handcrafted preserves, and garden-to-table dining experiences are used to bring local flavour and seasonality to the table.
At Coco Bodu Hithi, the same approach is reflected in its food and beverage offerings. To mark Earth Day, the resort has introduced a green-inspired cocktail experience focused on eco-conscious mixology, using fresh ingredients grown on the island.
The resort said its low-waste approach informs all aspects of the guest experience, with attention given to responsible resource use. From the choice of herbs and fruits to preparation and presentation, the offering is intended to reflect respect for the natural environment.
This approach also extends across the resort’s wider culinary programme, which focuses on locally sourced ingredients, house-made preserves, and dishes inspired by the Maldives’ natural produce. Through seasonal menus, conscious sourcing, and resource management, Coco Bodu Hithi aims to offer an experience that combines hospitality with environmental responsibility.
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