In celebration of International Chefs Day, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is set to host an extraordinary week-long culinary event from 20th to 25th October 2025, blending the serene essence of Japanese cuisine with the natural beauty of the Maldives. The resort will welcome two distinguished figures in the world of Japanese gastronomy, Chef Junichi “JT” Tanaka and Sake Sommelier Yasuyuki “Sakeyasu” Suzuki for an immersive culinary journey designed to delight guests and honour the timeless artistry of Japanese food and beverage.
Chef JT, a globally respected culinary artist whose professional journey spans across Japan, Jamaica, New York, and Australia, is the founder of Binchō Tanaka, a concept rooted in Sumibi Kappo, a traditional Japanese charcoal cuisine that harmonizes with the natural world. Known for his soulful omakase dining experiences that emphasize balance, wellness, and creative expression, Chef JT brings his depth of culinary philosophy to the Maldives for the first time.
Joining him is Yasuyuki “Sakeyasu” Suzuki, a pioneering figure in the field of sake curation and America’s first certified Sake Sommelier. He has made a profound mark on New York City’s fine dining scene through his dedication to pairing sake with a diverse range of dishes. Together, Chef JT and Sommelier Sakeyasu will offer guests at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi a rare opportunity to indulge in a dining experience that seamlessly merges culinary excellence with cultural immersion.
Throughout the celebratory week, guests will have the chance to attend two exclusive events: an Artisanal Sake and Craft Brew Tea Pairing Dinner hosted at the resort’s signature Islander’s Grill, followed by an intimate beachside dinner beneath the stars. These experiences will showcase a carefully curated selection of dishes inspired by Binchō Tanaka, enhanced with sake from Tanaka Shuzo, a family-run brewery that recently revived the historical kimoto fermentation technique after 67 years and artisanal tea from Marushichi Seicha, renowned for its craft brew innovations.
Further strengthening the resort’s culinary development, Chef JT will conduct a hands-on workshop for Sun Siyam Iru Fushi’s culinary team. The session will include live demonstrations and philosophy-sharing designed to encourage innovation, elevate techniques, and instill a deeper understanding of authentic Japanese cuisine. The workshop aligns with the resort’s continuous commitment to investing in staff development and enriching the guest experience through world-class gastronomy.
“Celebrating International Chefs Day is not only about creating exceptional dining moments for our guests—it’s also an opportunity to nurture and empower our team,” said Abdulla Atham, Resort Manager at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. “Welcoming Chef JT and Sommelier Sakeyasu reflects our vision to offer authentic, enriching, and memorable experiences at our resort.”
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, part of the Sun Siyam Resorts group, is the only property under The Luxury Collection by the brand, which represents a refined segment inspired by natural elements and guest-centric excellence. Nestled in the pristine Noonu Atoll, the resort is renowned for its world-class dining, luxurious villas, and a strong commitment to curating unforgettable experiences that blend global culture with local warmth.
This upcoming event not only celebrates the universal language of food but also strengthens the Maldives’ appeal as a top-tier destination where gastronomy, hospitality, and culture come together in perfect harmony, inviting travelers from across the globe to explore, indulge, and connect.