Anantara Veli Maldives continues Michelin guest chef series with international culinary talent

Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, owned by Ventive Hospitality and operated under the Anantara Hotels & Resorts brand, is continuing its Around the World Michelin Star Guest Chef Series 2026 as the Maldives enters its high season.

Centred on the theme “Michelin Finesse Meets Sustainable Gastronomy,” the three-month programme brings together international culinary perspectives through interactive cooking classes and curated dinners. Each chef interprets the experience through their cultural roots, culinary philosophy and approach to ingredients.

Chef Niyati Rao, chef and co-founder of Mumbai’s Ekaa, concluded the third-quarter chapter of the series in September, bringing an Indian perspective to the programme.

Alena Solodovichenko brings Ukrainian influences

In October, Chef Alena Solodovichenko will lead the next chapter, drawing on her Ukrainian roots, culinary beginnings in Kyiv, contemporary European techniques and international experience.

Her residency will introduce a distinct cultural perspective to the programme, exploring the relationship between personal heritage and contemporary gastronomy.

Solodovichenko will host a cooking class on October 21, followed by a curated dinner on October 22.

Cristina Bowerman to lead the November finale

The series will conclude in November with Chef Cristina Bowerman of Rome’s Michelin-starred Glass Hostaria. Known for her contemporary interpretation of Italian cuisine and international influences, Bowerman will bring her culinary approach, including a focus on sustainability, to the resort.

Her cooking class is scheduled for November 4, followed by a curated dinner on November 5.

Junior Wine Sommelier Kishore Bandaru will select wines for the programme, complementing the individual menus and culinary perspectives presented by each chef.

Sustainable gastronomy at the centre

The series’ theme, “Michelin Finesse Meets Sustainable Gastronomy,” connects the participating chefs through an emphasis on responsible sourcing, seasonal produce and conscious ingredient choices. Visiting chefs are encouraged to interpret the Maldives through their individual culinary styles while considering the destination’s natural setting.

The cooking classes offer guests an opportunity to explore the techniques, ingredients and ideas behind each chef’s cuisine, while the curated dinners present these approaches through a dedicated dining experience.

Commenting on the series, Ranjit Batra, Chief Executive Officer, Ventive Hospitality Ltd, said: “The Maldives is an important part of Ventive Hospitality’s international portfolio, with five resorts spanning 515 keys. Food and beverage is also a significant part of the guest experience across our international hospitality business, contributing 40% of international hospitality revenue in Q1 FY27. This makes distinctive culinary programming an important part of how we enhance the experience at our resorts. The Around the World Michelin Star Guest Chef Series brings together global culinary talent and diverse perspectives, while keeping sustainable gastronomy at the centre. With Chef Alena bringing her Ukrainian roots to the resort this October, followed by Chef Cristina Bowerman, the series allows us to create experiences that are both globally relevant and closely connected to the character of the Maldives.”

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