Cooking
Three-star Michelin Chef, Sergio Herman brings Sergiology to Huvafen Fushi, Maldives

Maldives Promotion House – Sergio Herman, one of the world’s youngest generation of three-star Michelin Chef’s and Owner/ Restaurateur of Oud Sluis in the Netherlands will be at Huvafen Fushi from April 3rd – 6th, 2013 in collaboration with Per AQUUM’s renowned Dream Calendar.
Sergio, his celebrated Head Chef, Nick Bril, Huvafen Fushi’s Executive Chef, Daniel Johnson and the retreat’s award winning culinary team will draw inspiration from the Maldives and the region throughout a four day showcase which includes a market shopping experience for Sergio and Nick in Malé to source the best of the Maldives’ produce, a ‘live-cooking’ dinner experience in Salt, the retreat’s over-water, open-kitchen concept restaurant, an exclusive dinner in the retreat’s renowned underground wine cellar, Vinum, cited by Robb Report magazine as one of the ‘World’s Best Restaurants’ and the culinary journey concludes with a sandbank lunch prepared by Sergio and Huvafen Fushi guests for the children of the local Maldivian orphanage, Kudakudhinge Hiya. This unique Maldivian travelogue will be creatively documented by Creative Director and Photographer Sean Jesudasan on behalf of Huvafen Fushi and Per AQUUM.
Sergio Herman received his first Michelin star for Oud Sluis in 1995 and doubled it four years later. In 2005, he achieved the absolute pinnacle with a third star. Oud Sluis is ranked 20 out of 20 in the Gault Millau guide and is listed in The San Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Sergio’s signature refreshing accents and delicate sours, mark his feather-light preparations highlighted in his latest food and art book titled, Sergiology. His ‘Magnum Opus’ that took more than two years and a large number of people, to create; ‘Sergiology is an ode to my family, my work and my interests, which are at the source of everything that has brought me so much success. I spent time in isolation, writing 60 recipes for this substantial volume. It is a book which portrays my most beautiful and most special moments, creations and people,‘ says Sergio. Culinary greats such as Heston Blumenthal, Rem Koolhaas and Anton Corbijn have also contributed to Sergiology which has a limited edition print run of only 2000 copies and are all numbered individually.
Creative Director, Photographer and TV Producer, Sean Jesudasan’s work has been used by the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies (Washington), Hausenberg (Copenhagen), ESPN StarSports (Malaysia), Atos Origin (Hong Kong), The Tourism Board of Singapore and more. Influenced and inspired by Henri Cartier-Bresson and Annie Leibovitz, his strengths in natural lighting and composition, almost minilmalist in style all feature strongly in his work. Sean began his adventure with photography on the streets having lived in Canada, America, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Nepal and India and referring to himself as a ‘citizen of the world’, Sean is currently working on a personal documentary production based on the migration of people. Sean will be on island to document this culinary journey with Sergio and for the first time, taking the Dream Calendar ‘live’. Each day, Sean will be producing 5 – 10 minute videos of each experience which will be uploaded to the retreat’s YouTube channel immersing Huva-fans into the experience remotely.
Huvafen Fushi is located in the North Malé Atoll and enjoys a pristine private island setting featuring 44 naturally modern bungalows and pavilions, and is home to the world’s first underwater spa. Managing company Per AQUUM Retreats • Resorts • Residences is dedicated to delivering an experience beyond the highest expectations, while remaining dedicated to the sustainable development and resources of the Maldives.
For reservations, please email reservations@huvafenfushi.com, call +960 6644 222 or your preferred tour operator. Follow Huvafen Fushi on Facebook or Twitter @huvafenfushimv for live island updates.
Cooking
Flavours of Japan light up Maldives: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi’s International Chefs Day experience

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi will mark International Chefs Day with a week-long celebration of Japanese artistry and flavour from 20th to 25th October 2025. The resort will host acclaimed Japanese Chef Junichi “JT” Tanaka, owner of Binchō Tanaka, and Sake Sommelier Yasuyuki “Sakeyasu” Suzuki for an exclusive series of culinary experiences.
Originating from Japan’s Izu Peninsula, Binchō Tanaka reflects the quiet philosophy of Sumibi Kappo—a charcoal-inspired cuisine that embodies harmony with nature. At Iru Fushi, Chef JT and Sommelier Sakeyasu will present an immersive omakase experience where Japanese sake and tea converge with fire and fermentation beneath the Maldivian sky.
Chef JT, whose career spans Japan, Jamaica, New York, and Australia, is recognised for his soulful omakase creations that blend tradition, wellness, and artistry. Joining him, Sommelier Sakeyasu—America’s first certified sake sommelier and a prominent figure in New York’s dining scene—will curate refined pairings showcasing precision, balance, and craftsmanship.
Guests will enjoy two signature events: an Artisanal Sake and Craft Brew Tea Pairing Dinner at Islander’s Grill, and an intimate beachside dinner under the stars. Each will celebrate the essence of Japanese culinary mastery in a Maldivian island setting.
The collaboration will feature Binchō Tanaka’s refined dishes paired with the renowned sake of Tanaka Shuzo—who recently revived the traditional kimoto fermentation method after 67 years—and the innovative craft brew teas of Marushichi Seicha. Together, they will capture the spirit of Izu in the Maldives through a fusion of fire, fermentation, and leaf.
To commemorate International Chefs Day, Chef JT will also conduct an exclusive workshop for Iru Fushi’s culinary team, offering hands-on training and sharing his culinary philosophy to inspire creativity and elevate the resort’s gastronomic craft.
“At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, we are proud to celebrate International Chefs Day not only by delighting our guests but also by investing in the growth and creativity of our culinary team,” said Abdulla Atham, Resort Manager at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. “Welcoming Chef JT and Yasuyuki Suzuki to share their expertise is a true honour. Their passion for Japanese gastronomy perfectly complements our vision of delivering experiences that are authentic, inspiring, and crafted with heart.”
Part of Sun Siyam Resorts’ (r)evolution, Iru Fushi stands as the only resort within The Luxury Collection—a portfolio inspired by the elements and dedicated to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Cooking
Ifuru Island Maldives introduces Kai, blending Teppanyaki tradition with island spirit

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced the launch of Kai, a new addition to its culinary offering, introducing guests to an authentic Japanese teppanyaki dining experience infused with a Maldivian touch.
At Kai, guests gather around the communal teppan table to enjoy an evening of flavour, flair, and connection. Skilled chefs prepare the freshest seafood, meats, and vegetables with precision and artistry, transforming each meal into a captivating performance of slicing, flipping, and grilling before the guests’ eyes.
Derived from the Japanese words TEPPAN (鉄板), meaning “iron plate,” and YAKI (焼き), meaning “grilled” or “pan-fried,” teppanyaki is a celebrated culinary art that combines food and theatre. Kai brings this timeless tradition to life in an elegant, interactive setting where diners can complement their meal with sake, handcrafted cocktails, or fine wines.
Offering a Japanese-inspired tasting menu that balances tradition, creativity, and contemporary flavours, Kai invites guests on a refined gastronomic journey that celebrates connection and craftsmanship.
“Kai is all about shared moments and sensory delight,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives. “It’s a lively, interactive experience that perfectly complements our island’s spirit of joy and togetherness.”
Available as part of the resort’s Premium All-Inclusive offering with a supplement of USD 35++ per person, Kai promises an unforgettable dining experience set against the tranquil beauty of Ifuru Island.
Celebration
Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s dual celebration of Diwali and culinary artistry

Sun Siyam Olhuveli is set to host two joyous celebrations on 20 October 2025, honouring both the Festival of Lights, Diwali, and International Chefs Day. The occasion will feature India’s renowned Chef Meghna alongside performances by Chandana Wickramasinghe and The Dancers’ Guild, Sri Lanka’s premier dance ensemble. Together, they will merge tradition and innovation, celebrating culinary artistry while showcasing the vibrant colours, flavours, and rhythms of South Asia in an unforgettable experience.
At the heart of the celebration is Chef Meghna, the acclaimed creator of Meghna’s Food Magic and one of India’s most beloved culinary personalities. With a following exceeding three million, she is celebrated for making everyday cooking engaging, healthy, and full of heart—from oil-free samosas to sugar-free cakes. For this special occasion, she will present a Diwali-inspired menu highlighting plant-based cuisine and sustainable food choices. During the day, Chef Meghna will also conduct an interactive cooking session, giving guests the opportunity to experience her creative approach and signature techniques first-hand.
As the evening unfolds, guests will be treated to a captivating performance by Chandana Wickramasinghe and The Dancers’ Guild. This acclaimed ensemble of 40 artists is known for fusing centuries-old Kandyan and folk traditions with contemporary choreography, creating performances that bridge cultures and tell powerful stories. Having enchanted audiences in more than 70 countries, the troupe will bring their artistry to Sun Siyam Olhuveli, transforming the stage into a vibrant celebration of movement, music, and soul.
Beyond the performances, the event embodies the spirit of connection—sharing moments, discovering flavours, and celebrating cultural harmony. Throughout the resort, guests can participate in rangoli art sessions, beachside games, and hands-on cooking activities designed for all ages, creating a festive atmosphere for families and friends alike. Meanwhile, the resort’s culinary team will engage in friendly competitions and team-building challenges that reflect their passion, creativity, and unity.
“As we celebrate Diwali and International Chefs Day, we’re celebrating more than food and art—we’re celebrating connection,” said Hassan Adil, General Manager at Sun Siyam Olhuveli. “This event is about coming together, exploring traditions, and creating memories that last.”
Guests are invited to immerse themselves in a day filled with creativity, taste, and tradition, and an evening alive with rhythm and culture—an experience where the magic of celebration and culinary excellence come together at Sun Siyam Olhuveli.
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