Travelers seeking an immersive Maldivian culinary experience now have a new destination at NH Maldives Kuda Rah. The resort has launched Malaa – The Maldivian Café, a unique dining venue that offers guests an unprecedented opportunity to explore the rich gastronomic traditions of the Maldives through interactive cooking classes and authentic local cuisine.
At the helm of this culinary adventure is award-winning Executive Chef Farish Mukhthar, a veteran with over two decades of experience in five-star and ultra-luxury resorts across the Maldives. Trained under renowned European celebrity chefs, Chef Farish brings a sophisticated approach to traditional Maldivian cooking, transforming local ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences.
The café’s commitment to authenticity is evident in its menu and sourcing strategy. Ingredients are carefully selected from local islands and the resort’s own organic garden, ensuring that every dish tells a genuine story of Maldivian culinary heritage. Traditional Maldivian cuisine is characterized by its bold flavors and unique preparation methods, with fish serving as the cornerstone of most dishes.
Signature dishes showcase the depth and complexity of Maldivian gastronomy. Staple ingredients like fresh and smoked fish are expertly paired with coconut, rice, and roshi (traditional Maldivian flatbread). The cuisine’s distinctive character comes from ingredients such as breadfruit, sweet potato, and the fiery githeyo mirus (Scotch bonnet chilli), which infuses dishes with a memorable heat and fruity complexity.
Guests can participate in hands-on cooking classes led by Chef Farish, learning to prepare classic local dishes like traditional curries and vibrant salads. These interactive sessions not only teach culinary skills but also provide insights into the cultural significance of Maldivian food. Participants will enjoy the fruits of their labor with a homemade lunch, creating a truly immersive dining experience.
While many international resorts offer a global culinary landscape, Malaa – The Maldivian Café differentiates itself by providing an authentic, locally rooted dining experience. This approach aligns perfectly with the NH Hotels & Resorts’ Live Local programme, which aims to connect travelers with meaningful local experiences through the Minor DISCOVERY loyalty scheme.
The launch of Malaa represents more than just a new dining option—it’s an invitation to explore the Maldives through its most fundamental cultural expression: food. By offering guests the chance to not just taste but understand Maldivian cuisine, NH Maldives Kuda Rah is redefining the culinary tourism experience.