Nestled amidst the tranquil waters of the Maldives, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands captivates at first glance with its iconic ring-shaped villas and endless blue horizon. Beyond its striking architecture, the resort is a masterclass in thoughtful design and intuitive service, offering guests a space where the pace of life slows and every moment is deliberately curated. This ethos of luxury finds its fullest expression in the resort’s culinary scene.
At the TTM Awards & Gala 2025, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands was recognised as Best Culinary Resort for its culinary excellence. Guests can explore a rich tapestry of culinary experiences, from elegant international cuisine and creative Mediterranean plates to aromatic Middle Eastern-inspired offerings and refined Japanese delicacies. Each dish is crafted with precision and artistry, blending flavours, textures, and presentation that transform every meal into a sensory journey.
At the heart of the resort’s dining landscape is La Locanda, where the day begins with the warm familiarity of an Italian café. The setting opens out towards the lagoon, giving breakfast a breezy, sun-washed charm. In the evening, the space shifts effortlessly into a celebration of regional Italian dishes, handmade pastas and wines chosen with genuine enthusiasm. At Summer Pavilion, modern Cantonese cuisine is expressed through elegant techniques and delicate flavours, the kind that create memorable moments without overwhelming the natural tranquillity of the setting. There is a gentle rhythm to the dining experience here, where refined dishes are paired with soft lighting and the calm of the surrounding water.
For guests seeking something more theatrical, IWAU offers a Japanese dinner under the stars. A limited number of seats and a chef-led approach make it intimate and expressive, almost like watching a performance with the ocean as the backdrop. Each course arrives with precision, focusing on the purity of the ingredients, from pristine sashimi to elegantly grilled meats, balanced with sake or champagne chosen to enhance the subtleties of the cuisine. The experience feels distinctly Maldivian, yet rooted in Japanese craft.
The resort’s more relaxed offerings bring a delightful contrast. Beach Shack captures the spirit of a Mediterranean coast, complete with wood-fired dishes and leisurely lunches that stretch well into the afternoon. It is as casual as it is stylish, perfect for guests who want to dine with sandy feet and sea breezes. Arabesque carves out an entirely different mood, drawing inspiration from the Middle East and North India with aromatic spices, generous mezze, tandoor-grilled dishes and rich teas. For those drifting through Fari Marina Village, Tum Tum adds a playful touch with Asian street-food favourites, while EAU Bar introduces a more elegant, almost whispered sophistication through its focus on clean flavours, creative cocktails and mindful, low-waste practices.
Across these spaces, the resort creates a culinary landscape that feels cohesive, engaging and beautifully elevated. Paired with exceptional service and the tranquil setting of Fari Islands, the dining experience becomes a defining element of the stay. For those who measure travel in flavours and moments shared around a beautifully set table, the resort stands in a class of its own.
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