Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo invites guests to discover the rich flavours and culinary traditions of the Maldives through a special Maldivian Food Festival, taking place from 24 to 26 July 2026 at The Dining Room.
Created in collaboration with the Maldivian High Commission, the three night promotion will offer guests an opportunity to experience the distinctive tastes of the island nation, where fresh seafood, coconut, aromatic spices and time honoured cooking traditions come together.
The festival will be led by visiting Maldivian chefs Chef Ibrahim Zuhair and Chef Hussain Mohamed, who will bring their extensive culinary knowledge and experience to Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo.
Chef Ibrahim Zuhair is an accomplished Executive Chef with more than 15 years of experience across luxury resorts, restaurants and catering operations in the Maldives. His career includes senior culinary roles at Soneva Jani, Siyam World and Oaga Art Resort, as well as serving as Head Chef at the Official Residence of the President of the Maldives. He has also received recognition at regional culinary competitions, including second place at the Indonesia International Halal Chef Competition in 2023.
Chef Hussain Mohamed brings more than two decades of experience in luxury hospitality, specialising in kitchen operations, food safety, cost control and the leadership of multicultural culinary teams. His career includes experience at leading Maldivian resorts and hospitality brands, including Baros Maldives, Veligandu Island Resort, W Maldives, Fairmont Sirru Fen Fushi, Velaa Private Island and Hilton Maldives Resort.
Together, the two chefs will showcase a selection of authentic Maldivian favourites and contemporary interpretations inspired by the islands’ culinary heritage.
Signature highlights include:
- Maldivian Prawn Tartare
A fresh and delicately seasoned prawn preparation that highlights the natural sweetness of seafood, balanced with island-inspired flavours and a refreshing finish.
- Garudhiya Inspired Baked Reef Fish
A contemporary interpretation of the traditional Maldivian fish broth, featuring baked reef fish enhanced with aromatic spices, citrus and flavours inspired by the much loved Garudhiya.
- Mas Huni with Coconut Roshi
A traditional Maldivian favourite combining finely flaked tuna, freshly grated coconut, onion and chilli, served with soft coconut roshi. Simple yet full of flavour, it remains one of the Maldives’ most cherished dishes.
The promotion reflects Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo’s continued commitment to introducing guests to diverse regional cuisines through authentic culinary experiences. Similar to its previous international food showcases, the festival brings together visiting culinary talent, traditional cooking methods and carefully selected signature dishes.
The Maldivian Food Festival will be available from 24 to 26 July 2026, from 7.00 p.m. onwards, at The Dining Room, Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, priced at LKR 8,000 nett per person.
For reservations and enquiries, please contact 011 249 1900.
