VELIGANDU CULINARY TEAM WINS AT HOTEL ASIA 2025
A taste of Victory
Every flavour at Veligandu Maldives carries a story. A story of creativity, teamwork, and passion that begins in our kitchens and ends in a smile at your table. This October, that story reached new heights as our talented culinary team represented the resort at the Hotel Asia 2025 – 19th Edition International Culinary Challenge, held from October 19 to 22 at the Maldives National University and Synthetic Track, Hulhumale’.
Award winning culinary team
The event brought together the finest chefs, bartenders, and culinary artists from across the Maldives, all judged by an esteemed panel from the World Association of Chefs Society (WACS). It was a week filled with inspiration, skill, and the shared love of food artistry and Veligandu proudly stood among the winners.
Chef Namal Sri Pathmakumara Rathna Nakandage Don impressed the judges with his incredible Artistic Showpiece and detailed Fruit and Vegetable Carving, earning a Bronze Medal for his precision and creativity. His work reflects the same dedication you will find in the daily fruit and vegetable carvings beautifully displayed at Dhonveli Buffet.
Chef Jayanga Piyumal Ubesinghjawardana, known for his delicate desserts and elegant presentations, brought home a Merit Award for his 3 Desserts Display and a Silver Medal for Cake Decoration. Each of his creations captures the spirit of island indulgence. Sweet, comforting, and beautifully designed. You can taste his award-winning artistry in the desserts and cakes served daily around the island.
Our very own Bartender, Arli Kurniawan stirred up success with a Silver Award in the Tea Challenge and a Bronze Award for Iced Mocktail Making. Every sip he serves carries a touch of that winning charm. Refreshing, balanced, and full of island character.
These proud moments are more than medals; they are reflection of the heart and soul that make dining at Veligandu Maldives so special. From breakfasts with sunrise views to candlelit intimate beach dinners at sunset and under the starlit sky, our culinary team pours their creativity into every experience.
Here is what to look forward to during your stay at Veligandu Maldives: Visit Raalhu Bar to try Arli’s award-winning tea and iced mocktails, or explore the dessert section at Dhonveli Restaurant for Chef Jayanga’s cakes and delicacies. As you walk through Dhonveli Buffet, don’t forget to admire the fruit and vegetable carvings crafted with love by Chef Namal. Each one is a delicate masterpiece, carved by hand and inspired by the beauty of island life.
Every taste, every detail, every moment is a celebration of our passion for culinary excellence. Come and discover the award-winning flavors of Veligandu Maldives where every dish tells a story, and every sip is a taste of natural island beauty.
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