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Escape to culinary paradise: Indulge in exquisite dining experiences at Meeru Maldives Resort Island

Published

2 years ago

March 20, 2024

Imagine a place where azure waters gently lap against pristine sandy shores, where the sunsets paint the sky with hues of orange and pink, and where every meal is a celebration of flavours and cultures from around the world. Welcome to Meeru Maldives Resort Island, where culinary excellence meets unparalleled natural beauty. With a legacy of over 40 years in hospitality excellence, Meeru offers more than just a getaway; it promises a gastronomic journey like no other.

Savouring Maldivian Delights

As you embark on your gastronomic voyage at Meeru Maldives, the journey begins at ‘Farivalhu’ and ‘Maalan’, the resort’s esteemed buffet restaurants. Here, guests are treated to a lavish spread of international cuisine, curated with particular attention to detail and complemented by themed nights that promise an unparalleled dining adventure. From Arabian Nights to Indian Delights, Mexican Fiesta to Italian celebrations and Maldivian cultural delicacies, each themed night adds a unique flair to the culinary experience. Whether you find yourself drawn to the vibrant atmosphere of Farivalhu or seek solace in the intimate ambiance of Maalan’s adult-only section, each dining experience is a symphony of flavours, a fusion of aromas, and a celebration of culinary artistry. From the moment you take your first bite, prepare to be transported on a sensory odyssey where every dish is an invitation to indulge in the finest flavours the world has to offer. At Meeru Maldives, every meal is not just sustenance; it is an experience to be savoured, cherished, and remembered for years to come.

The Reef: Ocean’s Bounty Unleashed

Step into ‘The Reef’ and prepare to be captivated by a jubilant tribute to the boundless treasures of the sea. Drawing inspiration from coastal kitchens across the globe, the menu is a heartfelt homage to the ocean’s bounty, where each dish reverberates with the essence of freshness and flavour. Indulge in the opulence of the Chilled Seafood Tower, a lavish display of the ocean’s finest offerings precisely arranged to tantalise the senses. Delight in the succulent Moules-frites, where plump mussels harmonise with crisp fries in a dance of savoury delight. Savour the sweetness of the freshly caught Crabs, each shell bursting with succulent meat waiting to be discovered. For those seeking a taste of the extraordinary, Octopus Carpaccio offers a delicate balance of tender textures and vibrant flavours, while locally inspired tuna showcases the Maldives’ rich marine heritage in every exquisite bite. Complementing The Reef’s seafood selections are an array of fresh salads and sumptuously grilled fish, ensuring a symphony of tastes to satisfy both seafood aficionados and discerning palates alike. With every mouthful, allow yourself to be transported to the shores of coastal paradises, where the sea’s bounty is celebrated with reverence and joy. At The Reef, every dining experience is a journey of culinary discovery, a testament to the ocean’s endless generosity and the artistry of the chefs.

Vilu: A Journey Through the Mediterranean

Embark on a captivating culinary journey through the vibrant heart of the Mediterranean as you step into the enchanting world of ‘Vilu’. Inspired by bustling markets and steeped in time-honoured culinary traditions, Vilu’s menu is a veritable tapestry of the region’s diverse flavours, weaving a tale of sun-drenched produce and convivial dining experiences. Immerse yourself in a realm where every meal is a communal celebration, inviting you to partake in the rich combination of flavours from France, Spain, Greece, and Portugal. At Vilu, authenticity reigns supreme as each dish is crafted with thorough attention to detail, reflecting the essence of the Mediterranean’s illustrious gastronomic heritage. Indulge in the hearty warmth of the Duck Confit, a symphony of tender flavours that pays homage to the rustic charm of French cuisine. For dessert, surrender to the decadent allure of Crema Catalana, where luscious custard meets caramelised perfection in a heavenly fusion of flavours. But Vilu is more than just a dining destination; it’s a sanctuary where sophistication meets simplicity, promising an unforgettable culinary affair. Here, amidst the gentle ocean breeze and the rhythmic lull of the waves, every moment becomes an exquisite revelation of taste and pleasure. It is pure bliss to let your senses be serenaded by the symphony of Mediterranean flavours at Vilu, where every bite tells a story of tradition, heritage, and the timeless allure of coastal living.

A-Mare: Italian Elegance Redefined

Transport your taste buds to the shores of Italy at A-Mare, where Italian chef’s love for the homeland shines through in every dish. From antipasti to pizzas and risottos, A-Mare pays homage to Italy’s rich culinary heritage with recipes that honour tradition while embracing innovation.

“This dining spot honours the straightforwardness of Italian fare, prioritising ingredient quality over complexity,” says Cristian Marino, chef, blogger, author and the former Culinary Consultant of Meeru Maldives. Here at A-Mare, guests are invited to savor the warmth and hospitality of Italian dining against the backdrop of the Maldivian sunset by acclaimed Executive Chef of Meeru Maldives, Marco Goldin and his team.

Asian Fusion and Teppanyaki Marvels

Indulge your senses with savoury stir-fries and culturally diverse dishes that burst with the bold flavours of the East, or lose yourself in the intoxicating aroma of fragrant curries that transport you to bustling street markets and kitchens of Asia. But the journey doesn’t end there. For those seeking a truly immersive dining encounter, venture to the Teppanyaki grill at Asian Wok, where skilled chefs transform ordinary ingredients into culinary masterpieces right before your eyes. Be mesmerised as flames dance and ingredients sizzle, culminating in a spectacle of culinary expertise that is as delightful to watch as it is to taste. At Asian Wok, every dish is a work of art, every bite a revelation of flavour. Join us as we celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Asia and embark on a gastronomic adventure that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Meeru Maldives is not just about exquisite dining; it’s also about unwinding with a refreshing beverage in hand. From ‘Kakuni Bar’ to ‘Dhoni Bar’, ‘Pavilion Bar’ to ‘Uthuru Bar’, guests can enjoy a wide selection of cocktails, mocktails, spirits and wines all served with a side of stunning island views.

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CROSSROADS Maldives brings back ‘No Guests, Just Chefs’ event

Published

1 day ago

April 23, 2026

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From 16th to 18th April 2026, CROSSROADS Maldives once again became the epicentre of global culinary excellence as it hosted the second chapter of the exclusive “No Guests, Just Chefs” event. Following the success of its inaugural edition last year, this unique gathering brought together around ten Michelin-starred chefs from across the world for a private, immersive adventure designed purely for connection, creativity, and relaxation.

Curated by award-winning Chef Dharshan Munidasa, the concept was simple yet powerful, an invitation extended to fellow chefs to come to the Maldives, not to perform, but to unwind, socialise, and celebrate their craft. Hosted across his renowned restaurants, Ministry of Crab, Carne Diem, and Nihonbashi Blue at The Marina, the event created an intimate space where culinary talents could meet under the same roof and enjoy each other’s company away from the demands of their kitchens.

Reflecting on the journey, Chef Dharshan shared, “This is not about performance, it’s about connection. It’s about good food, good wine, and good company. This is what travelling to the Maldives to truly unwind should look like.” He further explained that the idea behind the event was also to introduce the Maldives in a different light, showcasing not only its natural beauty, but also the vibrant lifestyle and culinary offerings available at CROSSROADS Maldives and across his three restaurants within the destination.

Chef Dharshan expressed his appreciation to all participating chefs and extended his gratitude to the three partner resorts, SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, and SO/ Maldives for their role in hosting guests at their event. Special acknowledgement was given to the leadership teams, including General Manager Alex Traeger of SAii Lagoon Maldives, General Manager Frederic Lebegue and General Manager Olivier Moies-Delval of SO/ Maldives, whose collaboration ensured a seamless and memorable experience for all involved.

Sharing his thoughts on the event, Alex Traeger, General Manager of SAii Lagoon Maldives, said, “We are delighted to welcome more gatherings like this at SAii Lagoon Maldives, where guests can seamlessly blend holiday, work, and meaningful connections. Events like ‘No Guests, Just Chefs’ truly reflect the spirit of CROSSROADS Maldives, bringing people together to experience, unwind, and create unforgettable moments in one vibrant destination.”

The event also highlighted what makes CROSSROADS Maldives truly distinctive. Participating chefs were hosted across Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, SAii Lagoon Maldives, and SO/ Maldives, experiencing the destination’s signature split-stay concept, a seamless integration of different resort styles within one connected location. This allowed them to move effortlessly between accommodation, dining venues, and leisure experiences without the logistical challenges typically associated with multi-venue events.

According to Chef Dharshan, this ease of movement and proximity is what sets CROSSROADS apart. “With the close proximity of restaurants, accommodation, and extraordinary moments, this is the only place that could truly host an event like this,” he noted. The concept not only fosters collaboration but also allows participants to fully immerse themselves in the destination without disruption.

Beyond the kitchens, the chefs embraced the full CROSSROADS lifestyle, from curated dining journeys at The Marina to water sports excursions and leisure activities. Just 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the destination offers both convenience and a sense of escape, making it ideal for niche, high-profile gatherings that combine creativity with relaxation.

At the heart of it all lies The Marina, a lively hub of dining, entertainment, and social energy, often described as the “Maldivian Riviera.” It is here that guests can enjoy a vibrant mix of rare moments, from world-class cuisine to lifestyle and retail offerings, all within one dynamic setting.

The success of this second chapter has already paved the way for the future, with Chef Dharshan confirming plans to host the event again next year. More than just a culinary gathering, “No Guests, Just Chefs” stands as a testament to CROSSROADS Maldives’ ability to redefine destination experiences where hospitality, gastronomy, and community come together seamlessly.

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Kandolhu Maldives announces culinary collaboration with Chef Fabrizio Zanetti

Published

2 weeks ago

April 13, 2026

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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.

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Baros Maldives to showcase sustainable dining for Earth Day

Published

2 weeks ago

April 8, 2026

m@ldives

Baros Maldives is set to host a curated Earth Day experience titled Earth Day in Bloom on 22 April 2026, offering guests an evening programme centred on sustainability, nature and locally sourced ingredients.

The event will begin at 6:30pm at the resort’s Chef’s Garden, where guests will be welcomed with a Garden Spritz before taking part in a guided tour of the garden. The tour will introduce participants to local herbs and island-grown produce cultivated on the property.

As part of the programme, guests will be invited to plant their own herb, contributing to the garden while engaging in an activity aligned with environmental awareness. The experience will continue with a garden dinner starting at 7pm, featuring a menu designed around fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the island.

An optional pairing of organic wines will also be available, providing an additional element to the dining experience.

The event is priced at USD 175 per person, excluding applicable service charge and taxes. Reservations can be made through the resort’s butler service.

The initiative reflects Baros Maldives’ focus on sustainability-led guest experiences, integrating environmental awareness with culinary offerings and on-island activities.