A luxurious island escape is about to experience a culinary transformation this August, as W Maldives prepares to host one of the world’s most celebrated pastry chefs, Reynold Poernomo, for an exclusive gastronomic experience. Designed to enrich the resort’s immersive “Flavors Unscripted” series under its Dare to Taste programming, this exceptional collaboration promises guests a unique fusion of island ingredients and avant-garde culinary artistry.
Chef Reynold Poernomo, widely acclaimed for his visually striking and technically sophisticated desserts, will take over the culinary stage at W Maldives on two distinct occasions August 10 and August 12, 2025. Known globally as Australia’s “Dessert King” and a finalist on MasterChef Australia, Reynold has built a formidable reputation in the international food scene. He is the co-founder of KOI Dessert Bar and KOI Dessert Kitchen in Sydney, Australia, establishments celebrated not only for their boundary-defying confections but also for pioneering experiential dining and culinary masterclasses.
This August, Chef Reynold brings his bold, imaginative approach to the Maldivian tropics, crafting a sensorial journey for guests of W Maldives. His visit will culminate in a one-night-only signature dining event on August 12 at the resort’s iconic overwater seafood restaurant, FISH. Renowned for its commitment to sustainable ocean-to-table dining, FISH will serve as the perfect setting for Chef Reynold’s specially curated three-course menu. The evening will spotlight locally sourced ingredients fused with international techniques, reflecting the chef’s distinctive culinary narrative, rich in texture, artistic expression, and layered flavors.
Enhancing the culinary celebration is a once-in-a-lifetime experience presented through Marriott Bonvoy Moments. From now until July 21, 2025, Marriott Bonvoy members can bid for an exclusive Private Castaway Dining Experience with Chef Reynold, combined with a luxurious four-night stay in a Premier Overwater One-Bedroom Villa at W Maldives. The package is valid for travel from August 9 to 13, 2025, and includes roundtrip shared seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport, daily breakfast, and a one-time signature treatment at the resort’s acclaimed AWAY® Spa for two guests.
The highlight of this exclusive stay unfolds on August 10 with an intimate, starlit dinner on Gaathafushi, W Maldives’ private castaway island. Chef Reynold will host the evening, crafting a bespoke tasting menu inspired by his global culinary background and the island’s vibrant natural palette. On August 12, the winning duo will also be treated to front-row seating for the grand culinary showcase at FISH.
To commemorate the collaboration, Chef Reynold will debut a bespoke signature dessert, developed exclusively for W Maldives. This artistic creation will be featured on the resort’s dessert menu for six months following his visit, offering future guests a lasting taste of this creative partnership. With its daring presentation and decadent flavors, the dessert is set to become one of the most photographed dishes in the Maldives.
Speaking on his upcoming collaboration, Chef Reynold remarked, “There’s something electric about the Maldives—its textures, its moods, its light. This menu is my response to that. A dreamscape of flavor brought to life through technique, imagination, and a little island heat.”
Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives, emphasized the synergy between the chef’s dynamic creativity and the resort’s experiential philosophy: “At W Maldives, we’re all about pushing boundaries on the plate, behind the bar, and in the guest experience. Reynold brings a daring, creative energy that aligns perfectly with our vision. This isn’t just a dinner; it’s a story told in flavor.”
The collaboration forms part of W Maldives’ Flavors Unscripted culinary series, a platform designed to inspire innovation and authenticity in island dining. By curating experiences that blend global culinary talents with local elements, the series offers guests more than just food, it offers a cultural and artistic encounter without borders.
Strategically located in the North Ari Atoll, W Maldives is accessible via a 25-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport. The resort features 77 luxurious private escapes, each with a private plunge pool and unobstructed ocean views. A recent design refresh has further elevated the resort’s allure, blending contemporary aesthetics with the raw beauty of the island environment.
In addition to the exclusive Marriott Bonvoy Moments experience, travelers can also explore the Stay, Dine, and Fly package. This offer includes daily breakfast, a three-course dinner, and roundtrip seaplane transfers, making it ideal for visitors seeking a seamless and indulgent island getaway.
For travelers looking to pair tropical tranquility with world-class cuisine, W Maldives offers an unrivaled setting where luxury meets creativity. To reserve your stay or learn more, visit www.wmaldives.com or contact [email protected].
This August, the island’s culinary stage is set and at W Maldives, flavor takes center stage.
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