Jumeirah Maldives Appoint New Executive Chefs
Jumeirah Vittaveli has welcomed Benjamin Rendell as the new Executive Chef. Rendell will oversee Jumeirah Vittaveli’s main restaurants Mu, Samsara, Fenesse and the new signature restaurant Swarna scheduled to open later this summer. Chef Ben will use his vast knowledge of diverse cuisines and cultures from around the world to bring new flair to the resort’s restaurants.
“We are delighted to welcome Chef Benjamin. I am confident his extensive knowledge and leadership skills will further enhance the resort’s culinary experience,” said Graham Kiy, General Manager of Jumeirah Vittaveli.
A British citizen, Ben earned his chef’s certification in the UK and spent several years in the kitchens of prestigious establishments, including the Savoy Grill in London. Ben brings over 45 years of culinary experience with him, as Executive and Regional Chef for luxury brands such as Mandarin Oriental, Le Meridien and Shangri La, in China, Singapore, Bahrain, the Philippines, Indonesia and Thailand.
Jumeirah Dhevanafushi has appointed Aldo Cadau as the new Executive Chef. Aldo will run the resort’s three restaurants Azara, Johara and Mumayaz Beach in addition to the in villa dining, ensuring consistent high quality food and service. A passionate and enthusiastic chef, Aldo will draw on his experiences from around the world. He will focus on producing contemporary Mediterranean classics in harmony with the spices, flavors and rich tradition of the Indian Ocean to create dining experiences and lasting memories.
David Stepetic, General Manager of Jumeirah Dhevanafushi, said: “We are delighted to welcome Aldo. He brings a wealth of knowledge gained from kitchens across the globe – from Japan, Russia, Italy, the UK and the Maldives and we look forward to being able to offer our guests the finest cuisine in the Maldives.”
Aldo graduated from the Hotel Institute in Arzachena, Italy in 1997 and began his career in Palau in Italy. He gained experience at a number of hotels in his homeland before working overseas as Chef De Cuisine at restaurants in Japan, Russia and the UK. In 2010 he worked in the Maldives for the first time when he joined the Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru, Baa Atoll, as Restaurant Chef. Two years later his career took him to the Middle East where he worked at the Four Seasons Hotel Doha, Qatar. Before joining Jumeirah, he worked as the Executive Sous Chef at Qasr Al Sarab Resort by Anantara in Abu Dhabi.
A 20-minute boat ride from Malé International Airport brings you to Jumeirah Vittaveli. Whether for an intimate escape or an indulgent family retreat, Jumeirah Vittaveli offers unmatched diversity, subtle luxury and personalised exploration. Impeccable choice and seamless service shape the character of this resort paradise, where every detail has been meticulously crafted to inspire journeys of discovery and enjoyment. Whether beach-side or over-water, all villas feature stunning interiors with private pools and access to the sandy shores or glistening waters. An inspirational Spa, a well-equipped overwater gymnasium, a children’s club and 5 star PADI dive centre mean guests are always able to try something new.
About Jumeirah Dhevanafushi:
Jumeirah Dhevanafushi, nestled in the Maldives, redefines notions of paradise with stunning geographical appeal and complete seclusion in the southernmost Gaafu Alifu Atoll. With only 38 exclusive villas, both beach and water based, all come with private butler and private pools to ensure a uniquely private and personalized experience. A short boat ride away from the Main Island lies a separate water village of ‘The Ocean Pearls’; 16 overwater villas perched on platforms overlooking the iridescent ocean, complete with own fine-dining restaurant and team of private butlers. Jumeirah Dhevanafushi also benefits from two further restaurants and a bar, as well as a breath-taking over-water Talise Spa and gym, two shared pools, and an expert yoga master. A host of water-sports ensures guests have immediate access of one of the best reefs in the Maldives.
About Jumeirah Group:
Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, operates a world-class portfolio of hotels and resorts including the flagship Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts manages properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Kuwait in the Middle East; Baku, Bodrum, Frankfurt, Istanbul, London, Mallorca (Spain) and Rome in Europe; the Maldives and Shanghai in Asia. Jumeirah Group also runs the luxury serviced residences brand Jumeirah LivingTM with properties in London and Dubai; the new contemporary lifestyle hotel brand VenuTM; the wellness brand TaliseTM; Jumeirah Restaurant Group DubaiTM; Wild Wadi WaterparkTM; The Emirates Academy of Hospitality ManagementTM; and SiriusTM, its global loyalty programme. Future openings include luxury and lifestyle hotels in China, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Mauritius, Morocco, Oman, Russia and the UAE.
