Executive chef, Christophe Wehrung, takes us behind the culinary scenes at Niyama…

As an island destination, how often do you have to import fresh ingredients to the resort?

Usually it is two times a week.

What local ingredients are you able to use at Niyama?

We source fresh vegetables and some fruits such as watermelon, papaya, pineapple, reef fish, which is very famous in Maldives, yellowfin tuna and Maldivian lobster and crab.

Do you grow anything on the island that visitors will find at the restaurants?

Yes, we have an organic garden known as the ‘Spice Garden’ where we grow fresh herbs, okra, lettuces, Maldivian chili, watermelons, and beans.

Tell us about the local fish you use at Niyama. How often is it caught and what type of dishes do you use it in?

Three times a week. We use the local fish in different kinds of dishes depending on what kind of fish is delivered, which can include species like snapper, grouper, mahi mahi, Jack fish, banana fish, and yellowfin tuna. On a daily basis the fishes are either grilled, or steamed for Asian preparation, while the tuna is used as carpaccio or tartare.

Are guests able to enjoy authentic Maldivian food at Niyama? If so, what type of dishes?

Yes, there’s Maldivian chicken curry, Garudiya maldivian fish broth, Maldivian lobster curry on the menu. Every Friday at Epicure restaurant we have also have a Maldivian themed buffet night with a spread of Maldivian dishes.

Looking ahead to the rest of the year, what celebrations will be hosted at Niyama this Christmas?

During the festive season we will be hosting a Michelin-star chef along with a caviar dinner and cheese night evening.

Do you offer cooking classes at Niyama?

Yes, known as Food Play whereby guests can prepare African, Thai, Mediterranean and Maldivian cuisine. We can also can customise cooking classes according our guest requests.

For travelers looking to visit with health and fitness in mind, do you offer any wellness-inspired menus at Niyama?

Yes, we have superfoods menus, vegetarian menus and a gluten-free menu available.