JOALI Maldives announces an exclusive culinary residency with acclaimed Indian chef Radhika
Khandelwal, founder of Fig & Maple, Kona, and Trouble Trouble, and the creator of the globally
recognised Zero Waste Hero movement, a platform championing biodiversity, whole ingredient
cooking, and conscious culinary practices. The residency will be taking place from May 1st to
May 4th, 2026. Rooted in the philosophy of conscious cooking and experiential dining, the
residency invites guests to explore food as a journey, one that brings together intentional
learning, conscious storytelling, and sensory discovery.

Known for her ingredient-led approach and deep commitment to sustainability, Chef Radhika
Khandelwal has been at the forefront of India’s evolving culinary landscape. Her cuisine reflects
a thoughtful balance between tradition and innovation, drawing from regional Indian techniques
while embracing global influences. With a strong emphasis on seasonality, fermentation, and
zero-waste practices, her philosophy aligns seamlessly with JOALI Maldives’ ethos of mindful
luxury, creativity, and immersive experiences.

In an exclusive partnership with JOALI Maldives, Chef Radhika redefines the art of flavour with
a culinary masterclass that throws out the rulebook on traditional infusion techniques.
Harnessing the power of heat, agitation, and surface area, guests discover how to coax rich,
complex flavours from spirits in real time. From the spiced warmth of Masala Chai gin to the earthy depth of mushroom-infused spirits and the comforting sweetness of apple cinnamon, each
creation is a sensory revelation that blurs the boundary between cocktail craft and culinary
artistry.

Beyond the glass, guests leave equipped with an intuitive “culinary shorthand”, a practical
repertoire of techniques for crafting elevated cocktails and complementary small plates with
effortless confidence. It offers an empowering experience for the modern epicurean and a sense
of adventure.

What follows is a six-course dinner conceived by Chef Radhika, a narrative told through bold,
India-rooted flavours reimagined with contemporary finesse. Guests are encouraged to move
beyond passive dining and actively engage with the creative process. From exploring the nuances
of fermentation to understanding the cultural narratives behind ingredients, each experience is
designed to foster a deeper connection with food. Evening dining experiences bring these
elements together, offering refined, flavour-forward menus that highlight technique, storytelling,
and seasonality.

Chef Radhika Khandelwal’s residency further reinforces JOALI Maldives’ commitment to
curating meaningful, design-led global culinary experiences that go beyond traditional luxury.
Set against the island’s artistic and nature-immersed landscape, the collaboration creates a
unique platform where global collaboration meets local inspiration, resulting in a dining journey
that is both intimate and joyfully transformative.