Pure Escapes Magazine Edition 6: Gastronomy

The pleasures of travel reach way beyond one’s geographical location, to a destination's culture, traditions and in turn, its cuisine. We travel not only to explore visual landscapes, but the landscapes of taste, texture, flavour and health. Adventure is found in spices, surrender in fine wine and perspective in sustainably sourced produce. The Indian Ocean has long since been an intersection of cultures, gathering age-old recipes that ignites one’s palate, benefits one’s health and feeds one’s soul.

Pure Escapes has collated a list of properties that deliver an irresistible menu of dining experiences, with sustainably sourced food as the base ingredient. Every travel memory comes with a flavour, and we invite you to explore the treasures of the table with us from garden to fork, sea to table and moment to memory.

Pleasures of the Palate Milla

MILLA VLADOVA Managing Director Pure Escapes

RAFFLES MALDIVES MERADHOO

"One cannot think well, love well, sleep if one has

sleep well, not dined well "

- VIRGINIA WOOLF

Plant the Seed, Nourish the Soul

With the fabric of green tourism sewn into the Indian Ocean, we celebrate organic and home-grown ingredients that create dishes inspired by nature.

Shades of Green plant-based dining experience is set within Soneva Fushi’s organic island gardens, taking diners on an immersive culinary journey that ignites all the senses. Beginning with a tour of the vegetable and herb garden, guests learn more about the food featured on the menu. Denmark chef, Carsten Kyster, prepares gluten-free, vegan, plant-based menus by fusing fragrant species of Maldivian and South-East Asian cuisine and his Nordic heritage. Traditional Nordic techniques include smoking, salting, fermenting and pickling. Each colourful menu features six courses – Cleansing, Crispy, Raw, Grains, Fire, and Sweets.

The fresh and sophisticated Botanica restaurant at One&Only Reethi Rah heroes outdoor cooking with organic, home-grown ingredients. Curated by Chef Matthew Kenney, a pioneer in plant-based, sustainable cuisine, the menu honours fresh food inspired by the simplicity of nature. All ingredients are sourced from the island’s surroundings; as nature intended. Each dish is seasonal, calling for imaginative, innovative and creative cooking. Under the thatched pergola or seated outside beneath the stars, visiting palates are in for a garden-tofork treat.

Under towering palms in the Vakkaru Maldives garden awaits an Organic Garden Dining experience. After a tour of the garden, laidback lunches welcome guests to this multi-sensory culinary journey. Immerse in a hands-on cooking class with freshly collected ingredients, or allow a private chef to skillfully craft a meal to remember. Organic wine is served with the option of Asian, Indian, Mediterranean or BBQ dishes.

Hand-picked and homegrown ingredients prepared with timehonoured techniques welcome guests to Patina Maldives, Fai Island's Roots for a freshly prepared plant-based meal. Lunch and dinner, both centred around organic produce, gift their own unique ambience with a specifically curated music playlist for each. Guests may feast on artichokes with truffle sauce as starters, aubergine ragout for mains and a deconstructed banoffee pie for dessert.

Set in the heart of Gili Lankanfushi, the Organic Garden encourages visitors to root their feet to their earth. Collecting home-grown rocket, chillies, basil, fennel, pomegranates, bananas and more, guests will be guided through the magical maze that fuels the Gili Lankanfushi kitchen. The culinary team delivers the unexpected by designing a bespoke menu to suit each respective visitor, set in the secret location of the garden itself.

ROOTS, PATINA MALDIVES

ORGANIC GARDEN , VAKKARU MALDIVES

ROOTS, PATINA MALDIVES

BOTANICA, ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH

THE ORGANIC GARDEN, GILI LANKANFUSHI

MALDIVES

SHADES OF GREEN , SONEVA FUSHI

ORGANIC GARDEN , VAKKARU MALDIVES

THE ORGANIC GARDEN, GILI LANKANFUSHI

ROOTS, PATINA MALDIVES

BOTANICA, ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH

to the Sunset Sip, Savour & Salute

Rah Bar is a poolside dining experience where guests can soak up the sun while staying at the One&Only Reethi Rah. Relaxation station by day and dance venue by night, the Rah Bar offers options for all. Healthy salads accompany the sunshine, where martinis welcome twilight. Their signature smoking ‘shisha pipe’ cocktail is a must for cocktail aficionados!

Dune at Niyama is the classic openair lounge and al fresco beach bar. Cocktail in hand, sand in toes and views over the ocean lure guests to its sunbeds beneath the palm trees. A chilled ambience and refreshing drinks are enjoyed with shawarmas, pizzas or fresh grilled fish of the day. Shisha pipes are also available to enhance the experience and enjoy the moment.

A stylish ocean oasis invites guests to the Vakkaru Lagoon Bar. Guests may sip on cocktails, savour sushi and salute the sunset while seated in the open air and the above water. The new Teppanyaki Bar adds entertainment, watching chefs bring the heat as they slice, dice and sear; mastering the art of cooking with flame. *Advanced reservations required for Teppanyaki dining.

RAH BAR, ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH

SUNSETS, COCKTAILS AND CANAPES BY THE SEA ARE AN ESSENTIAL SERVICE TO THE SOUL.

DUNE AT NIYAMA

VAKKARU LAGOON BAR

Jumeirah Maldives welcomes guests to ‘Shimmers’, a beach-side beach-club offering all-day Greek and Mediterranean snacks and cocktails. Tzatziki, octopus salad, roasted Saganaki prawns and Moussaka satisfy one’s appetite from 10 am till midnight. Bean-bag beachseats invite guests to take a bite on sunset canapés with sundowners while watching dusk claim the sky.

The perfect combination of cocktails, music and sunsets welcome guests to the Chill Bar at Six Senses Laamu. Metres away from the house reef with stairs leading down into the ocean, the Chill Bar encourages morning adventures to be retold over afternoon drinks; guests dipping in and out of the menu and turquoise waters at their leisure. A range of healthy salads, pizzas, curries and sweet tarts satisfy one’s appetite, with sugar, soy and gluten-free options available.

SHIMMERS, JUMEIRAH MALDIVES

CHILL BAR, SIX SENSES LAAMU

International Flavours: A WORLD OF CUISINE

Guests are invited to sink their toes into the sand with eyes on the horizon for sunset at the Arabesque Fanditha Restaurant at One&Only Reethi Rah. Every evening, the restaurant hosts 'Magical Hour', providing a feast for the palate and senses with the options of engaging in a sunset painting session before settling into a shared meal of classic Middle Eastern mezze. Bodi Beru, traditional Maldivian drumming, will then commence around the bonfire, bestowing guests with a show performed on drums made of coconut wood, accompanied by a local dance.

Authentic Italian charm welcomes diners to Vakkaru’s Isoletta. Vibrant Italian flavours with a modern twist are served at either the large communal table, lounging space, two-seaters a la Milano or a poolside piazza. Kayto at Jumeirah Maldives effortlessly presents the flavours of Peru and Japan in exceptional style. Delicate and delicious dishes are served, from the classic edamame starter to seaweed salad, marinated seabass as well as a range of sushi; ending off with cheesecake bruleé and homemade sorbet.

KAYTO, JUMEIRAH MALDIVES

ISOLETTA, VAKKARU

ARABESQUE FANDITHA RESTAURANT, ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH

FOOD IS OUR COMMON GROUND. A UNIVERSAL EXPERIENCE

- JAMES BEARD

Yapa, meaning ‘a little more’ in Peruvian, is aptly named for the effect it has on its guests. This charming over-water setting at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo presents a choice of authentic Japanese sake or luscious cocktails; flavours and options introduced by the resident mixologist. Tapas range from bowls of crispy fish skins, nigiri, tostadas, wonton rolls or oysters; perfect accompaniments to the beverage menu. With sundowner in hand and eyes upon the horizon, Yapa not only specialises in cocktails, but sunsets too.

Veli Bar at Patina Maldives Fari Islands is a poolside oasis that offers a variety of casual nibbles and creative cocktails that transform from day to night. Mimicking the tides, daylight presents a menu of light and simple snacks, whereby twilight brings the unexpected. Light bites include mezze boards, poke bowls, salads and seared tuna, and mains offer seabass, sirloin, grilled prawns and a coconut minestrone sweet soup for dessert.

Set on stilts above the lagoon, the Gili Lankanfushi Overwater Bar is an Indian Ocean delight. Serving light lunches, sunset cocktails and dinner, the bar and its panoramic views are accessible both day and night. Fresh food from both the garden and the sea accompany coconut martinis, all ingredients sustainable and prepared with care. Lunch offers salad options of marinated tuna, green papaya and roasted butter squash with a variety of homemade bread. Dinner brings starters of Angus beef tartar or Gili seafood Bisque, followed by lamb rack, tuna belly or potato rosti.

YAYA, RAFFLES MALDIVES MERADHOO

VELI BAR, PATINA MALDIVES FARI ISLANDS

VELI BAR, PATINA MALDIVES FARI ISLANDS

With torches lighting the way through the jungle, guests are led beneath the canopy to arrive in a modern setting with a tribal twist. Flavours of Africa and South America are prepared and cooked in the open kitchen at Niyama’s Tribal restaurant, igniting each diner’s senses as they choose between ostrich, boerewors (sausage), tamer-lobster or the dry-aged beef house speciality.

Rising from the ocean, the two story structure at Soneva Fushi is an international palate’s delight. Home to five dining outlets, guests are able to feast on creations by Michelin-starred chefs skilled in Vietnamese, Japanese and Indonesian cuisine. The area also includes a cheese room (So Cheesy), grill restaurant (So Hot) and an ice-cream parlour (So Guilty). The Out of the Blue all-day dining outlet is at the heart of this facility, with unimpeded views of the ocean.

OUT OF THE BLUE, SONEVA FUSHI

TRIBAL, NIYAMA

At Gili Lankanfushi, By The Sea boasts Japanese fine dining surrounded by tropical jungle with sweeping ocean views. Sashimi, hand rolls and seasonal speciality dishes are available, accompanied by a skilled teppanyaki chef demonstrating his artful culinary skills. Sake connoisseurs and amateurs alike are encouraged to enjoy the extensive sake list; the perfect compliment to the food menu.

Breaking the mould, Patina Maldives Fari Islands delivers the unexpected at its Greek restaurant; Helios. A hearty Aegean menu is served with equal heart by the restaurant staff, delivering both cold and hot mezze, grilled seafood, lamb and chicken kofta, and of course; moussaka! The end is sweet with delicious baklava and other artisanal Greek desserts. Set upon the beach beneath the palm trees, Helios is as relaxed as it is delicious.

Lebanese and north Indian street food are served at Ritz Carlton’s Arabesque; its design akin to a traditional Bedouin style tent. Mezze platters, tandoor-grilled meats, fresh grilled lobster and chicken tikka are but a few of the flavourful options available. Mahalabia is a delectable option as the meal’s finale, a delicate milk pudding topped with caramelized figs and served with a side of floral rose pastel ice cream. Dishes are offered alongside flavorful shishas, creative cocktails, Moroccan tea and Turkish coffee.

HELIOS, PATINA MALDIVES FARI ISLANDS

ARABESQUE, RITZ CARLTON

BY THE SEA, GILI LANKANFUSHI

Destination Dining: A adventureCulinary

Taking fine dining to new heights, Flying Sauces at Soneva Fushi is an exhilarating bucket list experience for food and adrenalin lovers alike. Starting from The Den and gliding along the 200-metre zipline route, guests will feast on forest scenes below as well as enjoy a variety of appetizers, beverages and gastronomic surprises at each stop. The grand finale is set upon a 12-metre elevated platform with exceptional views of the ocean. Seasonal dishes such as marinated shrimp with avocado puree, leeks with brie cheese sauce and black cod with artichoke puree and teriyaki truffle sauce are served, paired with a selection of old and new world wines. Although the restaurant is only open during daylight hours (for safety purposes) guests may choose between breakfast, lunch, high-tea and an early dinner.

IN THE TREES, BELOW THE WATER & UPON THE SEAS

Destination Dining: A Culinary adventure

The Subsix Underwater Restaurant at Niyama Maldives is under the sea and above expectation. Accessed by speedboat and submerged in the ocean, guests descend a dramatic three-tiered staircase to reach this culinary theatre. Italian chandeliers illuminate the way, with guests arriving to a calm-inspired bar where soft anemone chairs await beneath capiz shells draped from the ceiling. Champagne breakfasts, subaquatic lunches, gourmet dinners and adults-only glow parties make this dining destination simply irresistible.

Every Thursday, from 8 pm - 10:30 pm, the Beach Shack at RitzCarlton Maldives serves an incredible Lobster Dinner Under the Stars. Situated upon the beach, the barefoot yet luxurious restaurant welcomes guests to enjoy its carefree spirit, relaxed cuisine and delectable dining by the ocean.

Located in a private spot in the centre of the island, Vakkaru Maldives Jungle Cinema is a tropical treat. Guests may opt for a private session which includes free-flow soft drinks and popcorn, or for a more elaborate movie night; a set menu dinner to compliment the show.

Manta Ray Treehouse at JOALI honours local Maldivian flavours as well as the surrounding marine life with its manta ray shaped structure. Set high upon stilts and amidst the trees, a wooden walkway gives access to this private dining space. Artistic in style as it is in menu, as a destination dining venue guests may choose from an extensive list of culinary options. Maldivian, Indonesian and Sri Lankan set menus are on offer, or a simple breakfast and picnic may be served, a guest’s wish is JOALI’S desire.

The Firepit at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo offers an evening of romance, relaxation and revolutionary flavours. Sipping on wine from the sommelier section while witnessing the chef create a culinary feast using one of the oldest forms of cooking is a sensory experience. An intimate dining experience awaits upon the Jumeirah Maldives pier; lantern lit and lavish beneath the stars.

FRANK LLYOD WRIGHT

JUMEIRAH MALDIVES PIER

THE FIREPIT, RAFFLES MALDIVES MERADHOO

THE SUBSIX UNDERWATER RESTAURANT,

DINING IS AND ALWAYS WAS A GREAT ARTISTIC OPPORTUNITY

MANTA RAY TREEHOUSE, JOALI

RESTAURANT, NIYAMA MALDIVES

VAKKARU

BEACH SHACK , THE RITZ-CARLTON MALDIVES, FARI ISLANDS

WINE & DINE

The Purveyors of Luxury

BY THE BAR

A terrace with a garden view, perfect for couples, or indoor communal dining table for 10 welcomes guests to the Vakkaru Reserve. Hosted by the resident sommelier, wine tastings with a degustation menu are available for an evening’s entertainment. Or perhaps a cheese and charcuterie board is more to one’s preference, paired with old and new world vintages, and the finest cigars.

By the Bar wine cellar at Soneva Fushi is also referred to as the ‘beverage encyclopaedia’. Including a selection of over 200 high-end wines by the glass, no wine seeker is left wanting. A chandelier of wine bottles illuminates the space, an intimate setting for a fine evening of tastings. For alternative palates, the cellar also stocks beers, spirits, juices, tea and coffee.

- ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON

VAKKARU RESERVE

The private wine and cheese tasting room, Farine, at Patina Maldives Fari Islands whisks guests away on an expedition of flavour. With cheese from the finest fromageries and wine from biodynamic growers, the resident sommelier will teach the art of the perfect pairing. Open on request.

The Underground Wine Cellar at Gili Lankanfushi is one of the island’s best-kept secrets. Guests may descend into the cellar, stocked with the world’s finest wines served by the resident’s expert sommeliers. Taste journeys of wine and cheese or wine and chocolate are on offer, as well as appreciation sessions of rum, gin, brandy sake, whisky and champagne. With its rustic sophistication, wooden tree-trunk table and chilled atmosphere, this location is tasteful in design and menu.

Home to over 15000 bottles across 800 labels, the Conrad Maldives’ wine library is two meters below the ground; ideal for preserving wine. Dinners at The Wine Cellar consist of a seasonal six-course degustation menu with wine pairing, led by the resort’s Chef de Cuisine and Head Sommelier. The event seats only 12 people at a time. The dining table has pop-out screens that provide extra details about the wines, especially useful after the two-wine blind test!

THE WINE CELLAR

FARINE

THE UNDERGROUND WINE CELLAR AT GILI LANKANFUSHI

STARSTRUCK

in the Indian Ocean:

Cantonese cooking takes centre stage at Ritz-Carltons’s Summer Pavilion. This 40-seater lantern-lit restaurant floats serenely above a turquoise lagoon. In collaboration with Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurant bearing the same name, the Summer Pavilion produces traditional dishes such as bamboo and asparagus soup, roasted duck, braised abalone with black truffle sauce and birds nest with crab meat. Each dish is designed to be shared and paired with fine Chinese teas and selections from the resort’s extensive wine cellar.

RITZ-CARLTONS’S SUMMER PAVILION.

ST REGIS MALDIVES VOMMULI

RITZ-CARLTONS’S SUMMER PAVILION

DREAMS DO COME TRUE WHEN DINING IN THE INDIAN OCEAN, WITH MANY-A-MICHELIN-STAR TO WISH UPON.

St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort offers guests a series of exclusive dining experiences in collaboration with Michelinstarred chefs throughout the year. Award-winning chefs take up residency at the resort, keeping flavours fresh with innovation and creativity an essential ingredient to each dish. From Switzerlands best to Spanish culinary magic, St Regis guarantees an extravaganza of gastronomy.

RITZ-CARLTONS’S SUMMER PAVILION

Three Michelin-starred Japanese chef Kenji Gyoten partnered with Soneva Fushi to create ‘So Hands On’; the resort’s dedicated sushi corner. The intimate setting only seats 5 guests at its counter of sakipolished Japanese pine. When Chef Kenji Goyten is back running his own restaurant; Sushi Gyoten, in Fukuoka, Japan, Chef Akira Koba keeps the five-star sushi tables turning. Other Michelin-starred chefs feature in the ‘Soneva Stars’ program, offering pop-up kitchens in various restaurants during the year.

Innovative Modern European cuisine combines passion for culinary art and sustainability at Velaa Private Island. Aragu means ‘essence’ with Michelin-startrained executive chef Gaushan de Silva creating spectacular dishes, combining a contemporary twist with the timelessness of the Old Continent. Tables protrude out to sea, the setting as lavish and elegant as the cuisine. The restaurant often hosts other world famous Michelin star guests such as Brian Mark Hansen of Denmark, Alain Alders of the Netherlands, and Tristan Brand of Germany.

OPULENCE AND GRANDEUR ARE A GIVEN, BUT LAYERED OVER THIS IS A SEEMINGLY UNIVERSAL COMMITMENT TO WHISPER-QUIET SERVICE.

“

ARAGU

SONEVA FUSHI

SONEVA FUSHI

Eat Your Heart Out

Ice-cream and sorbet are redefined at Soneva Fushi’s ‘So Cool’. Coconut, avocado, pistacchio, aged balsamic and green olive are but a few of the 60 rotating flavours. Chef’s take their sweet-skills seriously, raising and maintaining the standard of out-of-this-world ice-cream impressions. Vegan and sugar-free or creamy and sugarfilled; the choices are endless. ‘So Guilty’ follows suit with abundant options for chocolates, truffles, pralines and more. The rooms are accessible to guests both night and day to satiate those cravings.

JOALI invites guests to mix it up at ‘La Joie’ by adding toppings such as mixed nuts, meringue, berry compote or coconut flakes to an ice cream treat. With the option of 36 different ice cream and sorbet flavours, guests will not be left wanting. Exotic tastes such as black sesame, yoghurt, Chardonnay, pink guava and green apple keep palates curious and cool beneath the Indian Ocean sun. The La Joie chef is on standby to take requests for specific tastes, and forever ready to try new concoctions. One can also order ice cream sundaes, frozen desserts like mango brownies, and chocolate boxes.

The forty ever-changing flavours at ‘Ice’ al fresco ice cream parlour ensure guests remain sweet and satisfied throughout their stay. Known for its innovation and creativity, the Six Senses Laamu parlour produces enticing licks like orange marmalade and mango jasmine, freshly topped with chocolate sauce, nuts and colourful candy. The chefs have even been known to measure their skills with unheard-of flavours such as feta cheese and wasabi! There is also a Chocolate Studio where a pastry chef offers infused chocolate truffles with mint mojito, cinnamon and green tea. Guests can enrol in a chocolate-making class to master these devilish delights!

“

LIFE IS BETTER WITH ICE CREAM!

THE SIX SENSES LAAMU

JOALI

SONEVA FUSHI’S

PICNIC PARADISE:

Castaway Cuisine

INDIAN

Pretending the world doesn't exist is easy when off-grid on a private sandbank in the Indian Ocean. With Vakkaru, the secluded sandbank is a blank canvas, offering options of a private wine soirée, an afterdinner party, a bonfire BBQ or a quiet evening of stargazing. Gourmet picnics are served with premium beverages, with the option of a DJ playing one’s favourite tunes.

Sandbank sessions at Soneva Fushi offer guests a chance to make their dining dreams a reality. By day, guests can embark on an expedition to a private island for Sonu's picnic. By night, the executive chef will prepare a special menu to satisfy taste buds, served amidst lanterns and set beneath the stars.

This discreet yet decadent experience at Milaidhoo Island Maldives begins with a dolphin sunset cruise on a luxury yacht or traditional sailing boat, with champagne and canapes served by a private butler. A four-course dinner awaits the guests' return, with a cosy fire welcoming stargazing and an afterdinner nightcap. A luxurious, canopied king-size bed welcomes the finale of the evening, all the amenities and facilities of a private yacht anchored for convenience. By request, the Milaidhoo Yogi can visit to offer a sunrise yoga session before the butler arrives to present a freshly prepared breakfast served on the sandbank.

A 40-minute boat ride from Six Senses Laamu delivers guests to a Deserted Island Picnic. Chefs have prepared a picnic basket of a light lunch, bottle of wine and decadent dessert to nibble on during the day’s expedition. The choice of lunches range between a Sense of Wellness, a Sense of SouthEast Asian and a Sense of Gourmet. Snorkelling gear and flippers are provided to explore the surrounding lagoon, or the temporary castaways may prefer to relax under the palm trees and upon the sunloungers.

SONEVA FUSHI

VAKKARU

THE

OCEAN AND ITS SURROUNDING ISLANDS ARE THE EARTH’S ULTIMATE PICNIC PARADISE. EACH RESORT GOES BEYOND EXPECTATION TO CREATE UNIQUE AND TAILORED SANDBANK ESCAPADES, THE ALREADY PERFECT SETTING ENHANCED WITH PILLOWS, SUNKEN SAND TABLES, LANTERNS, PRIVATE BEACH BBQS AND YOGA SESSIONS.

An exclusive island expedition offers guests the opportunity to feel like the castaway Robinson Crusoe family (the pampered version, of course!) Guests may opt to drop anchor and enjoy a picnic upon their boat in an isolated cove, or sail up to a sandbank where a luxury dinner setting awaits. The One&Only Reethi Rah team ensures the evening is flawless, from the lanterns to the cocktails to the menu prepared by a private chef.

Sandbank parties at Amilla Fushi are created to connect couples, families or groups of friends during their stay. Set up by the F&B team at the request of the guests, the event will be a tailor made experience suited to each respective group. Arriving and departing by speedboat, the afternoon begins and ends in style. Food, drinks and activities cater to all tastes, ensuring all members of the fold participate in and enjoy the party!

THE ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH

MILAIDHOO ISLAND MALDIVES

JOALI Feast and be Merry!

JOALI Maldives is the ultimate fusion between art and gastronomy. With a total of five restaurants and one private interactive kitchen and dining room, JOALI encourages guests to fully immerse themselves in their culinary journey. With Michelin-starred chefs as food consultants and a collection of culinary awards and accolades between venues, the resort guarantees the exceptional. JOALI’s joyful spirit and commitment to sustainable practices is the base ingredient for each restaurant, with their individual characters flourishing in flavour and design. Each setting encourages guests to transform through taste; fresh food and fresh perspectives served at every sitting.

SAOKE

Hidemasa Yamamoto oversees Saoke. On entry, its name is carved into rock and on exit its experience carves into one’s mind. This floating haven is the perfect intimate celebration location, boasting sea views, innovative cuisine and superb sake. Dishes include Sumiyaki charcoal grilled black cod, crispy duck salad, Wagyu beef miyazaki striploin and a variety of sensational sushi. Teppanyaki is also available on request.

SAOKE

Award-winning chef

TUH’U

Originating from one of the world’s oldest Levant recipes dating back to 3000 BC, the name TUH’U embodies the essence of this ancient cuisine. With its selection of fine teas, options of gourmet Persian kebabs, Syrian slow-cooked leg of lamb, mezze platters, grilled eggplant and Arabic tajine; the venue offers an explosion of flavours.

MURA BAR

At Mura Bar, scrumptious snacks and street food are served within airy cabanas and infinity pools. A simple yet flavourful international menu is available with options of salads, poke bowls, pasta, grilled prawns and lobster tostada. Mango brownies and calamansi cheesecake satiate sweet cravings. Live performances spice up the menu making this the ultimate relaxation station for JOALI guests.

BELLINIS

An elegant and ultra luxurious ambience welcomes guests to Bellinis. Michelin star Chef Theodor Falser marries Italian flavours with locally sourced produce. This fine-dining menu includes dishes such as antipasti mixed seafood salad or pan seared scallops, lobster ravioli or roasted butternut ravioli for starters, and yellowfin tuna or grilled lamb cutlets for mains. Each dish is paired with various wines to enhance the individual textures and flavours of the ingredients.

MURA BA

TUH’U

HER KITCHEN

Cooking classes in Her Kitchen invite guests to participate in creating their own culinary masterpieces. Guided by the resort’s expert chefs, guests can choose between Asian Som Tum on Sundays, Babaganoush on Mondays, Italian Tuscan flavoured soup on Wednesdays or Sushi every Friday. Updated options and innovative dishes are offered, this immersive environment teaches fresh flavours from around the world.

VANDHOO

Rising with the sun to a smoothie, fresh juice or exotic tea, guests are invited to begin their day and culinary journey at Vandhoo. Both local and international cuisine pamper morning palates. Inevitable overindulgence is a high risk at Vandhoo, with options of pancakes, omelettes, shashuka and even grilled fish fillet. An oh So Healthy alternative offers organic coconut yoghurt, chimichurri zucchini toast or avocado toast with salmon.

THE TABLE TROPICANA

The 'joie de vivre' philosophy of JOALI is expressed in its architecture, the aesthetics of its artwork and its immersive opportunities for guests to mindfully engage in the moment. Each one-of-a-kind installation invites guests to explore their textures, marvel at the playful adaptations of materials and climb in, sit on and interact with the piece. Guests are welcomed at 'The Table Tropicana' - a communal seating and eating space made of colourful mosaic tiles - inspired by and set within nature.

Location: Mura Bar

HER KITCHEN

VANDHOO

THE TABLE TROPICANA

DESTINATION DINING

Whether guests desire a BBQ on a private sandbank, brunch at the Chef’s Garden or a picnic in the Manta Ray Treehouse, the destination dining options at JOALI are simply delicious. Guests can choose the location as well as the menu. Options available include an Indonesian dinner featuring dishes such as shredded chicken soup, reef fish steamed in banana leaf, coconut rice and an array of desserts. A Maldivian dinner satisfies local cultural curiosity with fresh coconut salad, grilled lobster, cumin rice and katta sambals. The Sri Lankan option offers eggplant salad, prawn curry with poppadoms and toasted cashew nut dessert. The flavours are a mix of traditional, international and seemingly endless!

WHISKY AND CIGAR LOUNGE ICE CREAM PARLOUR

MANTA RAY TREEHOUSE

DESTINATION DINING

Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort For the Premium Palate

With its myriad of marine life, manta ray sanctuary and a range of delectable dining options, the Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort offers a feast for both the eyes and the palate. As the first and only all-Club InterContinental resort, every guest will enjoy an elevated experience of personalised service. This includes breakfast, afternoon tea, evening aperitifs of premium wine and cheese and all day refreshments. Nestled close to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, guests can make their holiday and culinary dreams come true.

LIGHTHOUSE

As the signature restaurant of the Intercontinental Maldives, the Lighthouse delivers on view, location as well as menu. Guests may begin with a cocktail on top of the lighthouse with a 360 degree view of the resort as well as the Indian Ocean. From the house cured ocean trout starter, to scallop mains or oxtail consomme and duck breast, dishes are thoughtfully created to suit every palate. Chocolate fondants and Mojito desserts complete the culinary journey with fresh yet bold bites.

FISH MARKET

Located over the water, the Fish Market is the perfect sundowner spot before guests settle in to an exquisite meal. The sea-to-table concept offers the guests the option to choose their own fresh seafood bringing an interactive element to the evening. Prawn and spinach dimsum open the menu, followed by pomelo squid tentacles salad, tossed seafood laksa and finished off with manjari and mango rice pudding. There are also dishes such as chicken curry or black pepper pork for alternatives to seafood.

LIGHTHOUSE

FISH MARKET

THE COLLECTIVE

The Collective rings true to its name as it houses ‘The Deli’, a ‘Pizzeria’ and a ‘Gelato Bar’. It is also where family and friends gather to enjoy the adjacent pool. Pizzas range from Foccacia Truffle to Prosciutto Speck, Maldivian Tuna and vegetarian options. High Tea presents an array of tea options accompanied by savoury and sweet snacks. For those on a health kick, there is steamed fish salad or prawn tempura, ending off with a blackberry compote sorbet from the gelateria.

CAFE UMI

Feasting begins with breakfast at Cafe Umi, its relaxed ambience an all day affair. Health infused teas and smoothies begin the menu in a highly nutritional fashion, followed by a lunch option of quinoa superfood salad, hot mussel starters and sushi. Classic pasta dishes, Asian curries and desserts tempt the taste buds for lunch; a teaser for the extensive dinner menu guests are encouraged to return for.

MAIN POOL

CAFE UMI

THE COLLECTIVE

THE RETREAT

Premium wines and cocktails welcome guests to The Retreat; an adults-only area of the resort. A private paradise perched overwater with a view of the lagoon lures those in need of some downtime. Sweet and savoury finger food is paired with an expert tea menu, as well as varied lunchtime treats. Health bowls, salads, pasta or a Maldivian yellowfish tuna burger keeps guests appetites at bay as they dip in and out of the pool and the wine list. White chocolate yoghurt pannacotta or white chocolate coconut mousse satisfy dessert cravings; the entire experience a gastronomic delight.

THE RETREAT

THE POOL BAR

Located within the main activity hub of the resort, The Pool Bar buzzes with energy both day and night. Open from 10:00 - 23:00, the swim-up bar offers an extensive list of cocktails, mocktails and other refreshing options. Mojitos, Negronis, Bellinis and even a signature cocktail called the ‘Bold and the Botoxed’ seduce swimmers to place an order.

SUNSET BAR

The dhoni-shaped Sunset Bar is an invitation to ease into evening with a champagne cocktail. Expert recommendations are dished out by the resident Champagne Sommelier paired with creative canapes and background music. The bar is open from 18:30 - 20:00, twilight giving way to night as well as dinner reservations. Guests may sip on a Sangria Lift or Peach ‘n’ Bubbles as the sun sets below the horizon.

DINE BY DESIGN

From the privacy of one's villa to the ultimate seclusion of a sandbank, the ‘Dine by Design’ locations are magical and many. A curated menu, personal chef and fine wine selected by the sommelier serve an evening of unforgettable flavours in extraordinary settings.

THE POOL BAR

DINE BY DESIGN

Niyama Private Island Food Fantasies into Reality

Nature’s playground meets epicurean utopia at Niyama Private Islands. The two islands, ‘Play’ and ‘Chill’ host 9 unique restaurants between them, gifting guests with options to dine in the treetops, savour the flavours of African tribal cuisine or indulge in modern fine dining out in the ocean. From family feasts to intimate romantic settings, Niyama Private Islands offers it all, and more. The food is fresh, the menus innovative and the location; heavenly.

SUBSIX

Accessed by speedboat, Subsix is an adventure for the mind as well as the palate. Guests descend a three-tiered staircase to arrive in an underwater world. Champagne breakfasts, subaquatic lunches and gourmet dinners invite guests to dive into this simply surreal location and menu. Every week, the clam-inspired bar opens for a Glow Party where guests are encouraged to wear white to embrace the theme, enjoying the theatre of the reef just beyond.

EPICURE

Aptly named Epicure, the all day dining venue has flavours and dishes for all those devoted to the enjoyment of food and drink! Dipping into the international menu as well as the infinity pool, guests may choose from a selection of 18 teas and 260 wine labels which accompany the menu. Choices consist of flaky pastries, Maldivian tuna curry, wagyu beef rump and coconut mixed berry tart for dessert.

NEST

In the canopy amidst the trees sits Nest, an enchanting treehouse serving Asian inspired cuisine. Avant-garde presentations grace guests’ tables, with lobster spring rolls, beef gyoza, Honk Kong style steamed fish, coconut rice and seafood sambals. A labyrinth of wooden walkways lead to different seating stations, one being a teppanyaki table booked for a more theatrical evening.

SUBSIX

TRIBAL

Afro Latin cuisine meets island lifestyle at Tribal. The venue presents a menu that celebrates ancient spice routes representing a rich culinary heritage of cultures. An authentic experience awaits with traditional foods such as kudu biltong, Nigerian beef stew, Jumbo Zambezia prawns, sauteed sweet corn and amarula milk tart. Tribe welcomes guests through torch-lit walkways to feast by the fireside.

EDGE

Exclusive overwater fine dining welcomes guests to Edge, half a km out in the ocean. Fresh local seafood paired with an extensive wine list satiates palates with Indian Ocean flavours. From caviar to langoustine to an Edge seafood platter, fish-lovers will be in their element. The sea view is as sweet as the dessert, sunset colours complementing French apple tatin and strawberry chocolate fondant.

BLU

Play offers all day dining at Blu - a family style, poolside restaurant. Its Mediterranean flair reflects in its menu with hummus and herb salad tarts, beef carpaccio and mezze platters for lunch. Dinner brings Moroccan lamb skewers, cumin crusted wahoo and smoked tuna and mussel tagliatelle. Breakfast and ice cream is also served - savoury and sweet flavours available from dawn till after dusk.

EDGE

TRIBAL

BLU

DUNE

Toes in the sand, cocktail in hand and eyes to the ocean beyond, Dune is the ultimate al fresco chill bar. Shawarmas, pizza and grilled seafood are served; world favourites for international appetites. Guests can dip in and out of the pool, sip on sundowners and enjoy a shisha pipe while relaxing on bean bags by the beach.

FOOD PLAY

Guests are encouraged to get hands-on during private cooking classes. Led by a professional chef, they will learn how to prepare Maldivian, Asian, Mediterranean and African dishes. Interacting with one’s ingredients and recipes gives extra insight to its sustainable sourcing, health benefits - as well as just being fun!

FAHRENHEIT

Raising the roof with its cocktail menu and ocean views, Fahrenheit rooftop bar is the perfect place to enjoy sunset. Dive into a Deepwater Daiquiri, sip on a Strawberry Basil Smash mocktail or savour some sparkling wine as the sun descends below the horizon.

DUNE

FOOD PLAY

FAHRENHEIT

THE DELI

Gourmet snacks, tempting treats and homemade ice cream keep guests coming back to The Deli for more. A one stop shop for quick bites and international delights from smoothies to ciabattas, pastries, paninis and frozen yoghurt. Cool the palate with sorbet and fresh juices or bring the heat with freshly brewed coffee; The Deli has it all!

DINE IN

Dining in is an equally tempting option when one’s villa has an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, or a private deck with immediate access to the beach. Intimate, stylish and exclusive, guests may opt to have a private chef prepare their meal in-house, home away from home, fringed in luxury.

DESTINATION

DINING

Private dining at Niyama Private Islands makes a statement and takes one’s breath away. Tailor-made experiences and menus invite guests to surrender to the moment, solely their own. Advanced reservation is required in order for the team to truly deliver unforgettable occasions.

DINE IN

THE DELI

SOUTH AFRICA

Fulfill your Gastronomic

With nature setting the scene and food and wine completing the picture, South Africa satisfies one’s appetite for both entertainment and flavour. From the different wine regions, filled with historic and gastronomic curiosity, to the urban beat and diversity of Cape Town, one experiences a variety of travel tastes.

Gastronomic Curiosity

Our Portfolio

TSWALU GAME RESERVE, KLEIN JAN

A sensory experience awaits guests at Klein Jan restaurant on Tswalu Private Game Reserve. Reflecting the dramatic landscapes, produce and the resourceful, creative people of the Northern Cape, the journey is one of exploration and discovery. Guests embark on a culinary adventure delving into authentic local flavours and a multi-course menu that changes with the seasons. The journey begins by stepping back in time when entering Boscia House, a 100-year-old farmhouse, transporting guests to various theatrical spaces and interactive dining experiences.

Located four metres below the ochre sands of the Kalahari is Klein JAN’s subterranean root cellar; the heart of this ambitious project. The crypt-like root cellar is temperature and humidity controlled, and is a visually beautiful storehouse for raw, cured, preserved and dried ingredients destined for the kitchen.

KLEIN JAN KLEIN JAN

COLLATING THE TOP THREE CHOICES WITHIN OUR PORTFOLIO, THE WESTERN CAPE WINELANDS AND CAPE TOWN RESTAURANTS, WE INVITE YOU TO INDULGE IN THE SEASONINGS OF SOUTH AFRICA.

ELLERMAN HOUSE

Ellerman House expresses its deep love for South Africa through every dish. Bringing local flavours to life with a contemporary twist, the chef draws inspiration from the history and heritage of the country. Seasonal produce fills plates from a hearty and healthy breakfast and lunch through to Cape Town’s ultimate fine-dining experience for dinner. Guests sit to pitch-perfect wine pairings, surrounded by remarkable South African art, completed by elegant menus with a local flair - all paying homage to the country, its resources and its people.

ONE&ONLY CAPE TOWN

Home to Africa’s only Nobu, One&Only Cape Town proudly welcomes guests to this world revered Japanese restaurant. As the brainchild of Michelin-starred chef Nobu, the cuisine is a cutting edge combination of Japanese and Peruvian styles and flavours. An Omakase multi-course tasting menu is highly recommended, with the chef surprising guests with his choices for the evening. A stellar selection of sake is available as well as a range of local South African wines, acknowledging the world class standards of both.

ELLERMAN

THE WINELANDS:

FROM SWEEPING VINEYARDS TO FAIRY-TALE ARCHITECTURE, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, OUTSTANDING WINE - THE WESTERN CAPE WINELANDS HAVE IT ALL.

Babylonstoren: Half-way between Franschhoek and Paarl, Babylonstoren offers the full-measure of flavour and experience. Its 200 hectares grow 13 different grape varieties, 10 which are served at the wine tasting centre as well as paired with sophisticated food from the farm-to-fork restaurant; Babel.

TOP TIP: Venture into the working cellar for a wine tour concluding with a master tasting of the finest wine, paired with home-grown and handmade delicacies.

Boschendal: Boschendal wine estate is the definition of age-old beauty. Ancient oaks and manicured gardens frame the Manor House, honouring a heritage dating back to 1685. Wine tastings and farm-to-table seasonal platters please the palate, with a focus on chardonnay, shiraz and MCC.

TOP TIP: Recline under the trees for a picnic armed with locally made artisanal goods and seasonal products packed for indulgence; accompanied by fine wine.

Vergelegen: 17 themed gardens and forests plus a nature reserve complete this 320 year old estate in Somerset West. The area is steeped in history and the vineyards produce eight varietals of wine; an invitation to both historians and wine lovers.

TOP TIP: Enjoy a luxury ‘white table’ dining experience; an intimate setting within the mystic camphor forest. Small bites with big flavours satisfy cravings, chaperoned by a selection of Vergelegen wine.

IF FOOD IS THE BODY OF GOOD LIVING, WINE IS ITS SOUL

- CLIFTON FADIMAN

BABYLONSTOREN

BOSCHENDAL:

VERGELEGEN

CAPE TOWN:

Fyn: The unexpected welcomes guests to Fyn, with complexity and deliciousness leading the way. From guinea fowl wonton, hokkaido milk bun with burnt mushroom custard to abalone braaied in kelp; one must anticipate anything but assume nothing when dining at Fyn.

OF

La Colombe: Silvermist Wine Estate offers elegance in its world class venue, French-Asian inspired dishes and seamless service. Seated in a treehouse overlooking the Constantia Valley, guests can expect dishes such as Malay style snoek, beetroot tartare and mushroom tortellini. Its signature dish, ‘Tuna La Colombe’ is a play on a tin can filled with marinated, raw tuna - a must try before indulging in the cheese course before dessert.

Chefs Warehouse, Tintswalo Atlantic: It is hard to decide which is more delicious at Tintswalo Atlantic, the endless ocean views or the Chefs Warehouse tapas. Ingredients sourced from local suppliers create a menu focused on seafood, with options such as barbequed pickled linefish, seared tuna and lobster carbonara. Alternatives such as roasted quail, braised carrots and shitake mushroom tartare are available.

CAPE TOWN IS BOTH A VISUAL AND GASTRONOMIC FEAST WITH INNOVATIVE AND CREATIVE CUISINE THROUGHOUT THE CITY.

FYN

LA COLOMBE

LA COLOMBE

CHEFS WAREHOUSE, TINTSWALO ATLANTIC CHEFS WAREHOUSE, TINTSWALO ATLANTIC

UAE TOP 3

TOP 3

Glitter, glamour and gastronomy are the main ingredients of the UAE. Spice-seekers, cocktail chasers and palate perfectionists will not be left wanting when visiting this delectable destination. Our top 3 restaurant choices each don a Michelin-star or three, ensuring epicureans experience the best of the best.

RESTAURANTS

STAY BY YANNICK ALLÉNO

Elegant settings, elevated menus and extraordinary service invite guests to Stay. Two-Michelin starred creations certainly tempt the taste buds and lure travellers to indulge in an evening at One&Only The Palm. Classic French dining at its highest level is plated including langoustine tart, seasonal caviar and truffles.

IL RISTORANTE - NIKO ROMITO

Celebrating the rich heritage of Italy, Il Ristorante at Bulgari Dubai offers views of the Arabian Gulf while serving a blend of modern and classical Italian cuisine. Three-starred Michelin chef Niko Romito shares his expertise and passion through dishes such as blue lobster salad, black cod with spiced tomatoes and lasagna with soft veal ragu. It's stylish, sophisticated and simply more-ish.

SUBLIMOTION AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL

Under the reign of double Michelin star chef Paco Roncero, this dining experience is a multi-sensory explosion. A combination of food, art, technology and choreography creates a culinary concept that resonates beyond the palate.

TOP 3

The nightlife in the UAE is unparalleled. It's chic, it's shiny and it's full of stars. From gold plated bar tops to award winning venues and out-of-thisworld signature cocktails, the UAE boasts some of the hottest bar establishments in the world.

BARS

GALAXY

Enchanting and luxurious, Galaxy offers an array of seductive signature cocktails beneath a canopy of stars. An award-winning stellar setting and menu welcomes guests to this luxury late-night lounge. Flawless execution and dazzling presentation serves cocktails made from top quality spirits, spices, botanicals and aromatics.

ZUMA

Located in the heart of the city, Zuma Dubai emanates the rhythm and style of glitz and glamour. The cocktail menu is a mixture of traditional tastes and Japanese twists with a Rare & Limited Selection of the finest whiskeys one can find. Stylish aperitifs are served at the bar to compliment one's drinks of choice.

BULGARI BAR

Celebrating some of the most sumptuous views of the Arabian Gulf, the iconic oval Bulgari Bar is the place to sip and snack while enjoying the vista beyond. Flowers and colour inspire the cocktail list, accompanied by bar bites that enhance the pleasures of the palate.