This October, the iconic Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi transforms into a haven for culinary aficionados, hosting a month-long celebration of exquisite flavors and cultural experiences. Guests can immerse themselves in the return of Michelin-starred Chef Dave Pynt at The Ledge, alongside exclusive sake experiences curated in partnership with a Sake Samurai at Zuma Maldives.
“Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has always been more than a destination, it is a canvas for exceptional experiences,” said T.J. Joulak, general manager of the resort. “This October, our guests will have the rare privilege of engaging directly with visionaries such as Chef Pynt and a Sake Samurai, whose artistry transforms dining into cultural discovery. Together, they will create moments that are as unforgettable as our island itself.”
Chef Dave Pynt, renowned for his Michelin-starred Burnt Ends in Singapore, will lead the culinary journey at The Ledge from October 13–19. Known for his mastery of wood fire, smoke, and slow roasting, Chef Pynt will utilize a custom-built, four-ton dual-cavity oven and elevation grills powered by sustainable Jarrah wood to craft a series of exceptional dishes.
Set against the Maldivian horizon, guests can indulge in leisurely poolside lunches by day, while evenings are dedicated to refined wood-fired specialties. The residency promises two standout events: The Ledge Team Takeover on October 15, featuring multi-course plates blending Chef Pynt’s signature flavors with creations from The Ledge team, and Fire & Finesse by the Beach on October 18, where Dom Pérignon pours accompany a bespoke wood-fired menu at Mirror Pool Beach.
Meanwhile, Zuma Maldives will honor the centuries-old craft of sake with a rare collaboration with a Sake Samurai, an accolade awarded by the Japan Sake Brewers Association to only a select few ambassadors worldwide. This partnership offers guests a unique opportunity to experience premium sake in an immersive cultural setting.
From October 1–7, the resort will present a series of sake-focused events. The Enkai Night Brunch on October 1 channels the lively spirit of a Tokyo izakaya with robata delicacies, sushi, and interactive sake tastings. Ginza Night on October 4 offers a refined seated dinner featuring robatayaki, premium sake pairings, and storytelling from the master brewer.
Osaka Night on October 7 provides a cultural celebration of sake with Takoyaki, sushi, and robata, alongside personalized calligraphy bottles and interactive tasting sessions. Guests can savor rare sakes such as the Zankyo Super 7, polished to just seven percent, and the nearly mythical Zuma ONE 1%, of which only nine bottles exist globally.
Together, these events highlight Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi’s dedication to crafting extraordinary moments that blend culinary innovation with cultural storytelling. The resort’s combination of Michelin-star expertise and sake mastery ensures that October is a month of unforgettable indulgence for all visitors.
For travelers seeking a sophisticated retreat where gastronomic artistry meets immersive experiences, the resort promises not only a journey through flavor but a celebration of cultural craftsmanship set against the unparalleled beauty of the Maldives.
