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Gastronomy

Year-round Epicurean Delights: JOALI Maldives announces series of visiting culinary experts

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JOALI Maldives is partnering with the finest culinary experts from around the world to create unparalleled gastronomical experiences. Over the course of the coming months, the resort promises a range of events curated to elevate the stay at the property.

The resort is well-known for its diverse range of dining options to choose from; throughout the year guests can savour Japanese-Peruvian cuisine, Italian cuisine, and Levantine cuisine. In addition to this, the resort also has noteworthy seasonal experiences, such as the recent pop-up of Le Petit Chef, an immersive theatrical dining experience.

JOALI Maldives strongly believes in the important role gastronomy plays in making a luxurious stay and is dedicated to continuously bring new experiences for their guests. This exclusive series of collaborations aims to bring exceptional flavours to the discerning palates of the resort’s esteemed patrons and explore the joys of gastronomy.

This series will feature a rotation of acclaimed chefs and culinary connoisseurs, each bringing their expertise, unique styles, and creations.

11 August 2023 – La Scolca Wine Dinner

JOALI Maldives hosts an exclusive wine dinner with Wine Maker and CEO Chiara Soldati, featuring a meticulously curated wine selection from La Scolca.

The premium wines from La Scolca paired with a menu crafted specially for the dinner by the world-class chefs of JOALI Maldives is guaranteed to elevate the dining experience.

14 October – Sake Dinner

Partnering with renowned Japanese Sake breweries such as Shirataki, Tochikura and Ginrei Gassan, JOALI Maldives invites guests for a special sake dinner. The breweries are selected based on their craftsmanship and innovation, and brewing techniques. Set in the Japanese-Peruvian restaurant of the resort – Saoke – the dinner is sure to transport guests through a nostalgic journey of Japanese heritage on Maldivian shores.

15 to 22 October 2023 – Ekaterina Alehina

Ekaterina Alehina is the founder-chef of Biologie in Moscow and the first female chef in Russia to be awarded a Michelin star. Based on the concept of “circular gastronomy”, Biologie serves mindful recipes with a strong accent on sustainability.

Chef Alehina will be at JOALI Maldives from 15 to 22 October 2023, and guests can enjoy a specially curated experience with her during this period.

15 to 22 November 2023 – Theodor Falser

Multi award-winning Michelin star recipient Chef Theodor Falser has worked closely with JOALI Maldives, having been the culinary consultant for the resort’s Italian restaurant – Bellinis. Chef Theodor is passionate about wild herbs and regional products, and throughout his remarkable career, he has discovered different tastes from a variety of cultures.

JOALI Maldives is delighted to welcome back Chef Theodor from 15 to 22 November 2023 and March 2024, allowing our guests to indulge in his exquisite creations once again.

18 to 25 December 2023 – Nina Tarasova

With over 10 years of experience in the culinary sphere, Chef Nina Tarasova is a well-known for her confectionary skills. She trained in France but works in Russia and frequently represents the country in different international festivals and forums. Chef Nina also conducts training and masterclasses both in Russia and abroad.

From 18 to 25 December 2023, Chef Nina joins JOALI Maldives to celebrate the festive season in style. Her dedication and culinary mastery is sure to leave an indelible impression for the guests.

10 to 17 January 2024 – Alex Webb

After impressing the world with his showstopping dishes on BBC’s ‘MasterChef: The Professionals’, trailblazing Chef Alex Webb ultimately won the show in 2020. His main mantra is “food should be an experience”, and his dishes are well-known for its creative flair and presentation.

From 10 to 17 January 2024, embark on an extraordinary culinary journey with Chef Webb as he draws inspiration from travels and the nostalgic flavours of his childhood. A unique culinary experience awaits all guests at JOALI Maldives.

20 to 27 February 2024 – Hidemasa Yamamoto

Hailing from Japan and trained in France and Italy, Chef Yamamoto has garnered multiple culinary accolades during his illustrious career including multiple Michelin-star ratings. His dishes are well known for their exquisite flavours and meticulous attention to detail. Chef Yamamoto has worked closely with JOALI Maldives, curating the menu at Saoke, the resort’s acclaimed Japanese-Peruvian Restaurant.

JOALI Maldives is excited to welcome Chef Yamamoto back from 20 to 27 February 2024, a visit that promises exceptional and innovative fusion of flavours to guests.

The line-up of experts spanning the following months promises an unparalleled celebration of culinary excellence. Each expert brings in a range from contemporary interpretation to traditional classics, promising gustatory delights that is sure to elevate your stay in JOALI Maldives.

For further details and booking, please visit joali.com

Cooking

Michelin-starred French chef Maye Cissoko brings ‘Art of the Chef’ to Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

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Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, the flagship resort within Sun Siyam’s Luxury Collection portfolio in the Maldives, has announced an exclusive culinary collaboration with acclaimed Michelin Star French Chef Maye Cissoko this July. In celebration of Bastille Day, the resort will host two exceptional dining experiences under the theme “Art of the Chef”, taking place on 22 and 27 July, where refined gastronomy, fine wine, and refined living come together.

Chef Maye is the chef and owner of the historic 105-year-old Maison Burnel in the Vosges region of France, which he beautifully renovated and earn a Michelin star just six months later. The chef, an alumnus of the prestigious Institut Paul Bocuse, brings experience to the island including his time with the renowned Barrière Group. The chef loves seasonality, fresh sourcing, and à la minute cooking. His menus heavily feature territorial, rustic elements from the Vosges like wild mushrooms, and local herbs paired with highly refined execution.

Working in harmony with the resort’s Executive Chef, Putu Wijana, he will present two distinguished evenings of fine wine pairings, featuring one of his favourite ingredients, fresh scallops.

  • Art of the Chef, Cellar Dinner | Wednesday, 22 July | Cellar Dining at Flavours: An intimate, refined evening of gastronomy at the resort’s newly renovated French restaurant. The menu features Scallop Carpaccio with leek essence and pike roe, Spider Crab with smoked haddock espuma, local reef fish enhanced with caviar and katsuobushi sauce, and a delicate French strawberry tartlet.
  • Art of the Chef, Sublime Festin | Monday, 27 July | Elevated Beachside Dining at Islander’s Grill: A sophisticated beachfront experience showcasing scallops in a green herb and truffle crust, Maldivian sea bass gravlax, local lobster with vegetable ravioli and artichoke purée served with a slow-simmered seafood bisque, and a decadent Guanaja chocolate entremet with mango-lime chutney.

The resident sommelier, Sunil Kumar, will feature exceptional wines from diverse regions of France, thoughtfully selected to pair with each dish.

This prestigious collaboration highlights Sun Siyam Iru Fushi’s commitment to elevating the culinary experiences across its 15 restaurants and bars. Chef Maye will work alongside the resort’s Executive Chef, Putu Wijana, who brings 26 years of global luxury brand experience to lead the resort’s continued culinary evolution.

“Partnering with Chef Maye Cissoko allows us to weave the timeless precision of French gastronomy into our kitchens. These exclusive menus have been meticulously curated to reflect our deep commitment to offering a refined guest experience. Following the residency, selected signature dishes will also be integrated into our menus, giving future guests the opportunity to savour these exceptional creations,” highlighted Executive Chef Putu Wijana.

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Drink

Asia’s top mixology talent to lead cocktail takeover at JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll

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JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort invites guests to discover an immersive three-night cocktail journey this June, featuring acclaimed mixologist Navjot Singh. Taking place across the resort’s distinctive venues from June 17 to 19, 2026, the exclusive bar takeover will present a curated series of innovative tropical cocktail experiences inspired by island living, craftsmanship, and storytelling.

Led by Navjot Singh, Beverage Program Leader at Lair Bar, the experience brings one of Asia’s most celebrated contemporary cocktail programs to the Maldives. Recognised as No. 8 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, Lair Bar is renowned for its innovative approach to mixology, blending luxury spirits, creativity, and immersive storytelling. Navjot himself was recently crowned World Class India 2025, cementing his reputation as one of the industry’s leading talents.

Joining him is Nakul Dev, Senior Bartender at LAIR BAR, whose creative approach is deeply inspired by the flavours and ingredients of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. With over six years of experience in hospitality and cocktails, Nakul is known for crafting ingredient-driven drinks that reflect the essence of the mountains and local produce from his hometown. His passion for flavour development and exploration of new techniques brings an additional layer of creativity and depth to the collaboration.

Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the takeover will unfold across three distinct venues, each offering its own atmosphere and cocktail narrative. At Nikkei Bar, guests will enjoy an exclusive sunset activation where thoughtfully crafted cocktails elevate golden-hour moments with refined tropical flavours and interactive guest experiences. Wahoo Bar will host an elegant beachfront evening inspired by the serenity of the coast, pairing curated tropical cocktails with breathtaking sunset views and laid-back sophistication. The final experience will take place at JW Garden, where a “Garden to Glass” concept celebrates locally grown ingredients such as basil, lemongrass, and pandan, highlighting sustainability and creating an immersive journey.

“We are thrilled to welcome Navjot Singh to JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort for this exclusive guest bartender series,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager. “His expertise, creativity, and dedication to craft reflect our commitment to offering guests immersive moments that are aligned with our philosophy of contemporary luxury.”

Each cocktail hour has been carefully designed to reflect the spirit of the island through a contemporary lens, blending tropical influences with modern techniques and storytelling. Through this collaboration, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort continues to elevate its culinary and beverage programming, offering guests meaningful and memorable experiences rooted in connection, discovery, and craftsmanship.

Learn more about JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort here.

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Culture

Eid al-Adha at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort to feature Arabian BBQ and island experiences

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InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort invites guests to celebrate Eid al-Adha on 27 May 2026 with a thoughtfully curated collection of island experiences inspired by togetherness, reflection, wellbeing, and celebration. Set against the serene backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the resort’s Eid programme embraces the spirit of the occasion through beachfront dining, wellness journeys, artistic expression, and family moments designed for guests of all ages.

The evening’s celebrations will feature a special Management Cocktail at Café Umi Beach, welcoming guests to gather for sunset refreshments and relaxed island conversations by the shore. As the evening unfolds, guests may continue the celebration with the Arabian BBQ Beach Dinner, an atmospheric beachfront dining experience featuring Arabian-inspired flavours accompanied by live music, DJ entertainment, and a captivating fire performance beneath the stars.

For guests seeking moments of restoration and mindful wellbeing during the Eid holiday, AVI Spa will present a series of personalised wellness experiences led by visiting practitioner Dr Afsana Aradhana Ghyas. Designed to encourage balance, relaxation, and inner calm, the tailored holistic therapies offer a meaningful opportunity for guests to reconnect and recharge within the tranquillity of the island setting. Guests may also enjoy a complimentary 30-minute massage with selected facial or body therapy experiences throughout the celebration period.

Adding a creative dimension to the celebrations, the resort will also host a resin art experience inspired by ocean textures and Eid traditions. From live artistic showcases to interactive workshops, guests will have the opportunity to create handcrafted keepsakes reflecting the beauty and spirit of the occasion.

Families celebrating Eid at the resort can also look forward to a variety of island activities throughout the day, including a Middle Eastern breakfast experience, afternoon tea, beach games, and a special Eid pajama party for younger guests at Planet Trekkers.

Located in the heart of Raa Atoll, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is the Maldives’ first and only all-Club InterContinental resort, offering elevated island experiences through personalised service, curated dining, wellness, and meaningful family moments.

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