Chef Cristiano Goattin leads Mediterranean relaunch of Riva at JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort is set to unveil a renewed identity for Riva on 30 August 2026, repositioning the restaurant as a Mediterranean dining destination under the culinary direction of Executive Sous Chef Cristiano Goattin.
Meaning “shore” in Italian, Riva’s new concept draws on the relationship between the Mediterranean and the Maldives, with a menu combining Mediterranean culinary traditions, Maldivian seafood and produce grown on the island.
Leading the culinary transformation is Italian chef Cristiano Goattin, whose career spans more than two decades across hotels, resorts and restaurants in the Gulf and Asia. His experience includes roles with Marriott, Jumeirah, Hilton and The Luxury Collection.
Drawing on his Italian background and international experience, Goattin has developed Riva’s menu around Mediterranean techniques, regional ingredients and produce sourced from the Maldives.
“Riva represents both a personal and professional journey,” said Goattin. “It is about bringing the spirit of Mediterranean to the Maldives in a way that feels genuine, rooted in place, and mindful of the environment. My goal is to create dining experiences that are simple, honest, and memorable, where guests can taste the connection between two shores.”
The menu places Maldivian seafood alongside Mediterranean ingredients including Greek olive oils, Sicilian lemons and aged balsamic, complemented by fresh herbs and greens grown at the resort’s JW Garden.
Among the dishes are Signature Seafood Stew and Half Lobster Tagliatelle, with the menu designed to combine traditional Mediterranean flavours with ingredients available locally and regionally.
The restaurant’s interiors have also been developed to reflect its Mediterranean direction, incorporating whitewashed textures, weathered wood and blue accents. An open-air deck provides an oceanfront setting for sunset dining, alongside indoor seating.
Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, said the transformation forms part of the resort’s approach to developing its dining experiences.
“We believe that luxury is ever-evolving, and we are continually innovating our offerings to create experiences that feel fresh, meaningful, and deeply connected to our destination. At Riva, the sea becomes a bridge between two shores, bringing together the vibrant soul of the Mediterranean and the tranquil beauty of the Maldives. Through simple, honest flavors, warm hospitality, and unforgettable oceanfront settings, we invite guests to slow down, savor the moment, and celebrate life’s most meaningful connections,” said Devarapalli.
The renewed Riva will begin welcoming guests under its Mediterranean concept from 30 August.
