CHEF ALEXANDRE CIRIELLO IN THE MALDIVES FOR THE JRE

In the heart of the Maldives' crystal-clear waters, an exceptional culinary experience brought together our chef, a member of the Jeunes Restaurateurs d'Europe, and local chefs in an idyllic setting provided by the Diamond Athuruga & Tsudufushi hotels of the Planhotel group in partnership with Martino Crespi Events.

From March 31 to April 15, our chef Alexandre Ciriello had the privilege of representing Belgian cuisine at this international gathering, showcasing his passion for cooking.

The program for this unforgettable culinary escapade included waterside cooking workshops, demonstrations of innovative techniques during cooking shows, and, of course, tastings of exquisite dishes during two gala evenings highlighting local products and the art of fusion cuisine.

But this trip wasn't just about gastronomic feasts. It was a total immersion in Maldivian culture, where each day was an exploration of local customs. From visits to vibrant markets to sea excursions discovering the infinite richness of marine life, and relaxing moments on fine sandy beaches, every moment revealed the wealth and diversity of these fascinating islands.

What makes this experience even more captivating is seeing how the local inhabitants fully contribute to the success of these events, sometimes at the expense of their personal lives, working on the island for long months to welcome visitors from around the world. The logistics are a constant challenge, with the supply of fresh products being less straightforward than in Europe, requiring unparalleled responsiveness and organization. Moreover, the fish from tropical waters are very different from those in our cooler oceans, demanding increased flexibility and creativity from the chef to offer unforgettable moments to numerous vacationers from all over the world. It is in this mix of exoticism, authenticity, and logistical challenges that our chef found his inspiration, offering each guest a unique culinary experience blending local flavors with innovative techniques. A trip to the Maldives is much more than a simple getaway; it's a true adventure for the senses and the mind.

For our chef Alexandre Ciriello, this experience in the Maldives represents much more than just a journey. It's an endless source of inspiration, an enriching exchange with passionate colleagues, and above all, a unique opportunity to push the boundaries of Belgian gastronomy towards new horizons.

We warmly thank the Diamond Athuruga & Tsudufushi hotels of the Planhotel group for their exceptional hospitality, Martino Crespi Event, as well as the Jeunes Restaurateurs d'Europe and JRE Belgium for this unforgettable collaboration.

Stay tuned to discover new culinary creations inspired by this paradisiacal journey, soon to be tasted in our restaurant.

The L'Horizon Team.