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JOALI BEING launches Yutori: exquisite Japanese restaurant celebrating culinary wellness and biophilic design

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JOALI BEING, the first wellbeing island of its kind in the Maldives, has unveiled a new Japanese restaurant conceptualised by the Michelin-acclaimed talents of Chef Hidemasa Yamamoto. The restaurant, named Yutori, embodies a sense of wellbeing in daily life and is set in a tranquil overwater sanctuary at JOALI BEING. Scheduled to open on 21st October 2024, the launch will feature a special appearance by the renowned Japanese Sake Master, Natsuki Kikuya.

Yutori is inspired by the Japanese concept of spaciousness, inviting guests to experience a setting where they can truly savour peace and serenity. Surrounded by the infinite movement of the ocean and shaded by a bamboo-thatched roof, Yutori stands as an island in itself. The restaurant’s design and architecture are rooted in JOALI BEING’s principles of biophilic design, integrating nature and harmony through positive energy flow. Yutori also includes an interactive sushi bar, with live music harmonised to the rhythm of ocean waves and a gentle sea breeze. General Manager Graeme Freeman remarked, “Yutori is a mindfully crafted experience that further enhances the unique culinary offerings at JOALI BEING. We are excited to bring Yutori to life, as we continue to elevate our guest journey through transformational experiences. Transcending over water in a beautiful 360-degree setting, our new Japanese dining experience reflects natural elegance, balance, and harmony—inviting our guests to immerse in the joy of wellbeing and true weightlessness.”

Yutori, a true epitome of Japanese charm and elegance, welcomes guests of all ages at JOALI BEING to enjoy an exemplary à la carte menu on selective evenings for dinner. The menu, crafted with the finest ingredients from both land and sea, aligns with the wellbeing island’s Earth-to-Table and Ocean-to-Table culinary philosophy, which emphasises ingredient traceability, fresh locally harvested food, and support for small farms with sustainable sourcing. Each dish highlights the best of Japanese culinary craftsmanship, adhering to the principles of authentic Japanese cuisine—balance, harmony, and respect for nature. Guests can indulge in a variety of gastronomic delights, ranging from Zensai appetisers, Sashimi, Sushi, and Temaki hand rolls to sensory salads, Robata grills such as Charcoal-grilled Wagyu and Seafood Toban Yaki, and exquisite desserts of Japanese heritage.

The culinary arts at Yutori are led by Chef Hidemasa Yamamoto, a recipient of multiple Michelin stars and winner of the Global Chef Award by the World Gourmet Summit. Born in Japan and trained in France and Italy, Chef Yamamoto has honed his craft over an illustrious four-decade career that spans the globe. He holds the distinction of serving three generations of American presidents at the legendary Jockey Club in Washington, D.C., and has also worked in the renowned kitchens of Roger Verge in Provence and Chez Nous Hama in San Francisco.

The grand opening of Yutori will also feature a traditional ‘Kagami Biraki’ ritual, performed by Japanese Sake Master Natsuki Kikuya—a symbol of good fortune, prosperity, and shared joy. Kikuya previously served as a Sake Sommelier for Zuma and Roka restaurants in London, and has consulted for several prominent establishments in the UK, including Sushi Kanesaka London, Namaiki London, and Kioku Bar. Her accolades include the ‘Sake Samurai Award 2015’ by the Japan Sake Brewers Association and the ‘Woman of the Year 2024’ award under the Innovator Category by Code Hospitality.

At JOALI BEING, all culinary experiences are curated with the assistance of the island’s nutritionists, offering a range of healthy yet indulgent dining options. The FLOW dining space features three distinctive open-plan kitchens. MOJO, the island’s tropical beach sanctuary, is set on a three-layered sundeck and provides an ideal setting for lunch and sundowners by the pool. Guests can explore an impressive range of brews and join tea ceremonies with the resident Tea Sommelier at the SAI tea lounge. In addition, Teppanyaki dining at the Gate of Zero offers artistry grills against a stunning backdrop. Bespoke dining arrangements are available throughout the island, from private sandbanks to the inviting Turtle Treehouse, as well as interactive nutritional cooking classes at the Culinary Learning Centre.

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Chef Heiko Nieder brings two-Michelin-starred culinary artistry to Sirru Fen Fushi

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This February, Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World, welcomes acclaimed chef Heiko Nieder for an exclusive gastronomic showcase celebrating culinary innovation, precision, and artistry kicking off The Michelin Series for 2026.

Recognised as one of Switzerland’s most celebrated chefs and the visionary culinary force behind The Dolder Grand in Zurich, Chef Heiko will headline two exceptional dining events designed for discerning travellers and food connoisseurs seeking a truly elevated island experience.

Events at a Glance:

14 February 2026: Four Hand Dinner with Chef Heiko x Chef Girish

In celebration of Valentine’s Day and Lunar New Year, Chef Heiko Nieder joins Sirru Fen Fushi’s Executive Chef Girish Sharma for an intimate Four-Hand Dinner, where two distinct culinary worlds meet in one extraordinary evening. Expect imaginative compositions, elevated island elegance, and a dining experience crafted to ignite the senses.

18 February 2026: Haute Cuisine Cooking Class with Chef Heiko Nieder

The celebration continues with a rare and intimate cooking class, where Chef Heiko will guide guests through two dishes, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his culinary philosophy and artistry.

18 February 2026: Chef Heiko’s Exclusive Signature Dinner & Cooking Class

Guests are invited to indulge in an exclusive four-course dinner featuring Chef Heiko’s signature dishes, showcasing his hallmark style: daring creativity balanced with refined technique.

Born in Germany in 1972, Chef Heiko is one of Switzerland’s most celebrated chefs and currently serves as Culinary Director at The Dolder Grand in Zurich. He completed his classical culinary training at the Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Hamburg, before refining his craft in some of Germany’s most respected kitchens, including Restaurant Le Canard in Hamburg, Hotel Zur Traube in Grevenbroich, and Restaurant Vau in Berlin. He further refined his culinary philosophy during five formative years at Restaurant L’Olivo in Bonn.

A multi-awarded culinary leader, Chef Heiko has received global recognition including:

  • GaultMillau “Discovery of the Year” in 2003
  • First Michelin Star (2004)
  • Two Michelin Stars awarded by The Michelin Guide.
  • GaultMillau “Chef of the Year” (2018)
  • Currently holding 19 GaultMillau points

In 2014, he launched THE EPICURE, The Dolder Grand’s prestigious international gourmet festival, now recognised globally as a culinary platform of excellence. In 2023, Chef Heiko published his first cookbook, “Heiko Nieder – The Restaurant,” which was met with wide critical acclaim. And most recently in November 2025 – Chef Heiko has released his newest cook book, “Heiko Nieder – Private Dining.” The publication offers an intimate insight into his personal approach to haute cuisine, private dining culture, and the philosophy behind creating bespoke, highly exclusive culinary experiences.

The Michelin Series is Sirru Fen Fushi’s signature calendar of culinary icons and global tastemakers, designed to deliver immersive reconnection through flavours and unforgettable dining journeys in the Maldives.

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JOALI BEING partners with Chef Kelvin Cheung for Lunar New Year residency

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JOALI BEING has unveiled an exclusive culinary partnership with acclaimed Chef Kelvin Cheung, the award-winning pioneer of Third Culture cuisine, recognised by the MICHELIN Guide and MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants. Taking place from 18th to 22nd February, the collaboration invites guests to gather and celebrate renewal and togetherness through a thoughtfully curated culinary journey.

Born in Canada, raised in Chicago, and now based in Dubai, Chef Kelvin Cheung’s culinary philosophy is shaped by a life lived between cultures. Drawing from his Chinese heritage, North American upbringing, and classical French training, his cuisine reflects a deeply personal narrative rooted in memory, movement, and meaning. Thoughtful and instinctive, his approach speaks to balance, harmony, and intention — values that align naturally with both the spirit of Lunar New Year and JOALI BEING’s philosophy of well-living through conscious, considered experiences.

The collaboration is expressed through a curated programme of dining and culinary moments across JOALI BEING’s signature spaces. From shared dining experiences that celebrate cultural storytelling and togetherness, to immersive workshops at the Culinary Learning Centre, guests are invited to experience food not only as nourishment, but as a meaningful expression of creativity, presence, and joy. With world-acclaimed recognition and a career shaped by cultural exchange, Chef Kelvin Cheung brings a distinctive culinary voice to JOALI BEING’s well-living journey. Rooted in intention and sustainability, the partnership highlights thoughtfully sourced ingredients — both local and global — crafted with respect for the land, the ocean, and the shared moments created around the table.

Programme highlights include a series of exclusive dinners showcasing Chef Kelvin’s signature Third Culture creations, where flavours move seamlessly across borders and traditions, capturing the energy and optimism of the new year. Complementing these experiences, hands-on cooking classes invite guests to explore Chef Kelvin’s culinary perspective through interactive learning, while a dedicated kids-only cooking class encourages young guests to reimagine familiar dishes through playful experimentation. Inspired by Chef Kelvin’s own experiences cooking with his son, the class nurtures confidence, curiosity, and self-expression, allowing children and teens to discover food as a creative and personal journey.

Chef Kelvin Cheung’s residency forms part of JOALI BEING’s wider Lunar New Year celebrations, thoughtfully curated to honour tradition, renewal, and the joy of coming together. The programme begins with festive dining to welcome the new year, followed by a diverse calendar of culinary and cultural experiences — from hot pot gatherings and hands-on masterclasses to tea rituals and celebratory dining moments — unfolding across a two-week period. Designed for families and guests of all ages, the celebrations extend beyond the table to include wellbeing rituals, marine adventures, recreational sports, interactive workshops, and sunset gatherings, creating a holisti,c island-wide celebration rooted in connection and joy.

To complement the experience, guests travelling as families or groups may also explore JOALI BEING’s Residence Escape Offer, designed for extended stays in the island’s three- and four-bedroom residences. Created for unhurried living, the offer invites guests to mark the season through meaningful rituals, shared moments, and time spent together.

For full programme details, including Chef Kelvin Cheung’s culinary experiences, please visit the resort’s website. For bookings and further information, please contact reservations.being@joali.com. 

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OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI to host Janice Wong’s ‘Chocolate Art & Serenity’ experience

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The whispers of innovation are sweetening the Maldivian air once more as THE OZEN COLLECTION heralds the celebrated return of culinary visionary, Janice Wong. This April, the pristine shores of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI will again become a canvas for her genius, hosting the exclusive ‘Chocolate Art & Serenity’ pop-up from the 27th to the 29th. Here, against the iconic overwater backdrop of the resort’s world-class outlets, CUVÉE, ORIGINꓱ and Vista del Mar, indulgence is redefined transformed into an immersive journey of edible artistry and sublime flavour.

The ‘Chocolate Art & Serenity’ pop-up will present a meticulously curated series of exclusive engagements. From intimate masterclasses for adults, where the alchemy of chocolate is unveiled, to engaging guided cooking activities for children, and a bespoke Cacao Bonfire Meditation Ceremony with Chef Janice Wong combining a guided sound healing session and an intention-setting ritual with a cacao-infused culmination, the programme is designed to enchant every guest.

Leading the series is Chef Janice Wong, a visionary often hailed as Asia’s “Queen of Desserts.” Over a celebrated 18-year career, Chef Janice has revolutionised the world of patisserie, transforming desserts into multi-sensory works of art. Her eponymous restaurant, 2am:dessertbar, became a global phenomenon, earning her two consecutive spots on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list and establishing her as a formidable force in the industry.

“My passion for culinary art has always been driven by a desire to test the limits of dessert making,” said Chef Janice Wong. “At OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, chocolate becomes more than a confection, it is a medium where art meets design and mindfulness. Each creation is thoughtfully composed to encourage presence and curiosity, inviting guests to engage their senses and experience dessert as a moment of balance, creativity and wellbeing within this tranquil island environment.”

The event also underscores Atmosphere Core’s continued dedication to curating world-class gastronomic experiences. Anupam Banerjee, Vice President of Food & Beverage for Atmosphere Core, remarked, “Hosting a culinary artist of Janice’s calibre once again is a testament to our ongoing mission to deliver unparalleled, memorable moments to our guests. This collaboration reflects our company vision that true gastronomy transcends indulgence – it becomes a ritual of wellness, weaving artistry and nourishment into every experience. Her innovative approach aligns perfectly with our vision for OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI as an invitation to savour health, joy and artistry in every bite.”

This highly anticipated 2026 series builds upon the resort’s distinguished legacy, a narrative woven from pioneering gastronomy, the restorative wellness of ELE|NA Elements of Nature and deeply engaging guest experiences. Since its inception, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI has masterfully curated moments where artistic expression and world-class hospitality converge, establishing an unwavering precedent for excellence that defines the very ethos of THE OZEN COLLECTION.

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