Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is setting a trend for the new year by encouraging their guests to savor the taste of local cuisine with the introduction of its ‘Traditional Maldivian Family Feasts’. These culinary wonders open up the opportunity for guests to sample local dishes accompanied by Maldivian hosts who will enlighten them about the art of Maldivian cuisine and culture.
Directed by a Maldivian member of the Hadahaa team, this expedition into a menu of hand selected Maldivian dishes is expected to set a new trend and to encourage other restaurants to take up the local spread. A rather unexplored category of dishes globally, they are light and aromatic, with the use of lime paired with spices such as curry leaves (Hikandhi Faiy) and Maldivian chili (Githeyo Mirus).
The coconut is a Maldivian favorite and is one of the mainly used ingredients in both sweet and luscious courses. Locally caught fresh fish like tuna is also a key ingredient, often matched with an arrangement of salads and vegetable curries. Whilst guests can recognize some of ingredients, they will also be sampling other unfamiliar components such as ‘Kopee’ (Broccoleaf), a dark curly leaf similar to kale.
With such an abundant variety of flavors on offer, it could get confusing to choose dishes that go well with each other. Taking this into consideration, the host will recommend combinations according to the guests’ preference, in order to put together their ideal dish from the assortment of dishes and make their experience uniquely exquisite.
Knives and forks will be put aside for the more adventurous guests who are willing to embrace true Maldivian table etiquette which encourages handling food with hands instead of using cutlery.
In addition to assisting the guests with their choice of dish, each table host will spend time talking to guests about the culture in Maldives. From discussions of how food is collected and prepared to explaining the every-day family life of the average Maldivian, how special holidays are celebrated and the country’s diverse history. Guests will have a greater understanding of the fascinating culture in the small island nation.
Traditional Maldivian Family Feasts take place every Sunday and are open to all guests (welcoming up to eight at a time) costing USD 100/£81* per person. Alternatively, guests can reserve a private Traditional Maldivian Dining Experience for USD 120/£97 per person. Nightly starting rates at Park Hyatt Maldives starts at USD 830/£675* per villa, inclusive of Breakfast. Meal plans up to All Inclusive are available.
