October at Waldorf Astoria Maldives

A month where global visionaries redefine luxury dining by the ocean

This October, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi will transform into a stage for extraordinary culinary encounters, where global visionaries come together to create unforgettable dining experiences against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Michelin starred Chef Dave Pynt returns to The Ledge, the barbecue concept he designed exclusively for the resort, while Zuma Maldives partners with a Samurai to present rare tastings that honor centuries of Japanese tradition.

“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 at The Ledge

From October 13 to 19, acclaimed chef and restaurateur Dave Pynt, the creative force behind the Michelin starred Burnt Ends in Singapore, will helm the kitchen at The Ledge. Conceived in partnership with Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi in 2019, The Ledge is built around Pynt’s mastery of wood fire and smoke. Guests will dine on dishes prepared using a custom four ton dual cavity oven and elevation grills fueled by sustainable Jarrah wood, a testament to craftsmanship and culinary precision.

By day, the terrace will welcome guests with leisurely poolside lunches. By night, refined wood fired specialties will unfold against the glowing Maldivian horizon. Highlights of the residency include two signature events.

• The Ledge Team Takeover with Chef Dave, October 15: A convivial evening of multi course plates blending Chef Pynt’s signature flavors with inventive creations from The Ledge team.

• The Ledge Fire and Finesse by the Beach, October 18: A barefoot celebration on Mirror Pool Beach with a bespoke wood fired menu of refined snacks, new creations, and elevated signatures presented in Waldorf Astoria style.

  
  

Culture at Zuma Maldives

Each evening brings a new dimension of Japanese culture.

• Enkai Night Brunch, October 1: A Tokyo inspired izakaya celebration with robata delicacies, sushi, and interactive tastings.

• Ginza Night, October 4: An elegant seated dinner with robatayaki, accompanied by immersive storytelling.

• Osaka Night, October 7: A cultural evening featuring takoyaki, sushi, and robata, with personalized calligraphy bottles and interactive tastings.

  
  

A Month of Discovery

In bringing together the worlds of fire and finesse, Japanese culinary heritage and Maldivian horizons, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi continues to distinguish itself as a sanctuary where innovation meets cultural artistry. October will not simply be a month of dining. It will be a celebration of global creativity, woven seamlessly into the island’s rhythm of luxury and discovery.