Cooking
IREKS and BBM collaborate to inspire resort chefs in Maldives
IREKS, a leading provider of premium baking ingredients and malts, has partnered with Bestbuy Maldives (BBM) to launch an exclusive series of baking demonstrations at some of the Maldives’ top resorts. Led by acclaimed IREKS master baker Chef Steven, this initiative aims to enhance the culinary skills of resort chefs and improve the overall dining experience across the islands. This collaboration reflects IREKS’ commitment to innovation and BBM’s dedication to enhancing the Maldivian tourism industry.
With a history of over 160 years, IREKS serves clients in more than 90 countries, offering a wide range of high-quality products, including artisanal bread mixes, gourmet confectionery mixes, as well as gluten-free and vegan ingredients. The baking demonstrations, organised in partnership with BBM—Maldives’ foremost supplier of premium food products—focus on the diverse and versatile offerings of IREKS, celebrated for their exceptional quality.
From September 21 to October 2, 2024, Chef Steven will visit luxury resorts across Kaafu, Dhaalu, Baa, Gaafu Alifu, and South Ari Atolls, showcasing advanced techniques using IREKS products. His sessions will feature innovative recipes, including artisanal breads, gourmet pastries, and specialty items designed to meet contemporary dietary preferences. Particular attention will be given to gluten-free and vegan baking, which is increasingly popular among health-conscious travellers. Chef Steven will also cover the important topic of preventing cross-contamination, equipping resort chefs with the skills needed to accommodate guests with specific dietary requirements.
“Our collaboration with IREKS enables us to introduce the finest baking ingredients to the Maldives,” stated Mr. A.V.S. Subrahmanyam, COO of BBM. “This initiative not only raises culinary standards in our resorts but also ensures that we cater to health-conscious guests looking for luxurious experiences. Chef Steven’s expertise is crucial in helping our chefs enhance their skills and creativity, allowing the Maldives to maintain its status as a premier global culinary destination.”
The well-received demonstrations provide hands-on training and inspiration for chefs, empowering them to create luxurious, imaginative, and health-conscious desserts and baked goods. With an increasing demand for vegan and gluten-free options in luxury dining, IREKS’ extensive product range offers an ideal solution, enabling Maldivian resorts to serve a broader clientele while upholding the high standards of resort cuisine.
Through this collaboration, BBM and IREKS aim to consistently deliver top-quality products and expertise, ensuring that the Maldives remains a leader in global luxury tourism, renowned not only for its stunning landscapes but also for its exceptional culinary experiences.
Cooking
Women at heart of kitchen: Milaidhoo Maldives marks International Women’s Day through gastronomy
At Milaidhoo Maldives, International Women’s Day is observed as more than a calendar occasion; it is recognised as a meaningful celebration of the women whose talent and dedication shape the character of the resort’s intimate island experience.
This year, Milaidhoo highlights not only the women across its wider team, but also the five female chefs who play an integral role within its kitchen brigade. Culinary artistry remains central to the Milaidhoo experience, reflecting both heritage and creativity. Across the resort’s collection of dining venues, from island-inspired fine dining to relaxed beachfront cuisine, food is presented as a narrative of place and people. Menus are conceived as inspiration rather than prescription, with chefs tailoring each dish and dining moment to the individual tastes and curiosities of guests.
On 8 March from 19.00, the resort’s female culinary team will take over the open kitchen at Shoreline Grill, hosting a specially curated International Women’s Day dinner. Designed and executed by five chefs, the evening brings together flavours drawn from their individual traditions and culinary perspectives. More than a dining event, the experience is intended as a moment of connection and shared celebration, reflecting the intimate gastronomic gatherings for which Milaidhoo is known.
International Women’s Day Menu (Available at Shoreline Grill – Sunday 8 March from 19.00):
- Sate Lilit: Balinese seafood satay, gently spiced and grilled over charcoal, served with warm peanut sauce – Chef Bintang, Indonesia
- Pumpkin & Coconut Velouté: Roasted pumpkin soup with toasted pumpkin seeds, curry leaf oil and crisp garlic croutons – Chef Saaha, Maldives
- Curry-Poached Maldivian Coral Lobster: Locally sourced lobster with drumstick mashuni and coconut–passionfruit dressing – Chef Michelle, Maldives
- Thai A5 Wagyu Striploin: A5 Wagyu with confit lotus root, green papaya salad and Thai coconut red curry reduction – Chef Prew, Thailand
- Baobab & Chocolate Harmony: Baobab mousse, dark chocolate crémeux, peanut crumble, caramelised pineapple and mango gel – Chef Yemuria, Zimbabwe
Each dish reflects a personal culinary story, drawing inspiration from the charcoal grills of Indonesia and the spice markets of Thailand to the flavours of Zimbabwe and the rich culinary heritage of the Maldives. Together, the menu celebrates diversity and the shared pleasure of dining.
At Milaidhoo, meaningful luxury is defined through connection to place, tradition and people. This International Women’s Day, guests are invited to mark the occasion through an evening of exceptional gastronomy that honours the women at the heart of the Milaidhoo experience.
For reservations or further details on Milaidhoo’s culinary offerings, guests may visit the resort’s Culinary Experiences page or contact the reservations team at welcome@milaidhoo.com.
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From shoreline to hotpot: New dining experiences at Sun Siyam Iru Veli
Sun Siyam Iru Veli has unveiled two new dining experiences this February: the beachfront Sunk in Sand Dining Experience and the interactive Hotpot Lunch and Dinner. Designed to enhance the island’s Privé collection offering, the new concepts centre on intimacy, shared moments, and flavour-led exploration, launching alongside the resort’s Valentine’s and Lunar New Year celebrations.

The newly introduced Sunk in Sand Dining Experience was officially unveiled during the Valentine’s celebrations, beginning with a beachfront breakfast concept. Guests can begin their day with a curated breakfast served directly on the shoreline, seated within the sand itself with uninterrupted views of the horizon. Complemented by a bottle of sparkling wine, the experience offers an intimate setting surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldivian coastline. Priced at USD 250 per couple for breakfast, the concept extends beyond morning dining, allowing guests to reserve the experience at any time of day, including specially curated sunset and evening moments.

The new Hotpot Lunch and Dinner further expands the resort’s culinary offerings, with a selection of premium ingredients, aromatic broths, fresh seafood, meats, and vegetables. This dining experience centres on shared dining and interactive enjoyment. Guests may choose between a Vegetarian Hotpot at USD 99 or a Meat & Seafood Hotpot at USD 155. Launched alongside the island’s Lunar New Year celebrations, the offering provides visitors with an opportunity to experience flavours traditionally associated with the festive season, aligning the dining concept with the cultural highlights observed at the resort.

Together, these new dining experiences reflect Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s continued focus on diversifying guest experiences through thoughtful culinary innovation. By pairing immersive settings with flavour-led concepts, the resort continues to evolve its dining landscape while creating moments that complement both seasonal celebrations and everyday island stays.
Cooking
Maagiri Hotel invites guests to celebrate Ramadan with daily Iftar
Maagiri Hotel has announced the availability of a daily Iftar experience throughout the holy month of Ramadan, inviting families, friends and corporate groups to gather and break their fast in a welcoming setting.
The Iftar buffet will be available every day during Ramadan and will feature a selection of traditional Ramadan dishes alongside international cuisine. Prepared by the hotel’s culinary team, the buffet will include local specialities, Middle Eastern favourites and a range of global offerings designed to cater to diverse preferences.
In addition to its daily Iftar service, Maagiri Hotel has introduced early booking benefits for corporate groups. Groups of 1 to 49 guests will be eligible for a 10 per cent discount, while groups of 50 guests and above will receive a 15 per cent discount. These corporate rates are available for bookings confirmed on or before 18 February.
The Ramadan Iftar programme reflects Maagiri Hotel’s focus on providing shared dining experiences centred on tradition, hospitality and togetherness during the holy month.
Guests and corporate organisers may make reservations or seek further information by calling 331 8484 or 722 8484, contacting the hotel via Viber on 722 8484, or emailing events@maagirihotel.com.
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