Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has unveiled Shimizu, the much-anticipated modern Japanese restaurant and the latest of the resort’s 11 specialty dining venues. Head Chef Andrei Palm, formerly of Nobu in South Africa, has brought his artistry and creativity to this one-of-a-kind Japanese restaurant. On an island where culinary innovation sets the precedent, Shimizu is the latest in the widest variety of culinary experiences offered in the Maldives.
The striking structure, built of bamboo, was designed to mimic an ocean wave, Shimizu, which means clear water in Japanese, is a nod to the gentle waves below. Upon entering Shimizu’s long wooden pathway, reminiscent of the entryway of a traditional Japanese sanctuary. The menu was created with global influences, designed by Chef Andrei and his team of chefs with a combined 55 years of experience in high-end Japanese restaurants. Hailing from South Africa, Nepal, Indonesia and the Philippines, each chef has incorporated flavours from their native countries into the artistry of dishes served, creating a true fusion.
Shimizu's sake sommelier Abdhulla Saeed, notably the first sake sommelier in the Maldives, helps guests navigate the extensive premium sake selection, as well as the collection of Japanese whiskeys on hand. Arguably the most collectable and rarest whisky in the world, That Boutique-y Whisky Company’s Batch #1 Karuizawa, aged 19 years, will delight guests with the most discerning tastes. Offering a flight of sake, the sommelier will take guests on a journey through Japanese flavors, a matchmaker of sorts, helping guests fall in love with the beverage.
In addition to Shimizu, guests can expect an unforgettable culinary journey at the resort's 11 restaurants. Created by Dave Pynt, the culinary mastermind behind Singapore’s Michelin-starred Burnt Ends restaurant, The Ledge features an elevated Australian barbecue experience that can be savoured against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Guests can also enjoy the only private hand-crafted bamboo dining pods in the Maldives at Terra, located on the island’s highest point.
For those guests looking for complete seclusion, the newly launched ultra exclusive Ithaafushi – The Private Island, is the largest Maldivian private island spanning 32,000 square meters. Every aspect of the island has been expertly choreographed and features a modern design with a nod to Maldivian charm.
Located in close proximity to Malé, guests can be escorted directly to Ithaafushi – The Private Island via a 40-minute ride on the resort’s six Princess yachts or via a 15-minute seaplane flight. The sprawling estate accommodates 24 guests across two, three and four bedroomed residences, placed across the island’s private beach and overwater. The private island comes with its own dedicated culinary team which promises to take guests on a diverse culinary journey, offering bespoke menus to be enjoyed in an array of extraordinary settings across the island.
