“…This October, W Maldives invites guests to embark on a new culinary chapter in its Flavours Unscripted series, an exclusive two-night six-hands collaboration uniting three of Bali’s most renowned chefs: Benjamin Cross of Mason and Bar Vera, Stephen Moore of Shelter, and Chris Smith of Red Gunpowder. Together, they will craft extraordinary dining experiences in the heart of the Indian Ocean…”
Taking place on 18 and 20 October 2025, each evening will showcase the chefs’ distinct yet complementary styles, bound by their mastery of fire-cooking, their commitment to sustainable ingredients, and their inspiration from global flavours. The collaboration forms part of Dare to Taste, W Maldives’ signature programme, where creativity and local Maldivian produce lie at the centre of every gastronomic journey.
The chefs bring with them impressive credentials and international acclaim.
- Benjamin Cross, an Australian chef and co-founder of Mason and Bar Vera, is celebrated for his fire-based Mediterranean cooking, honed through experience at Can Fabes in Spain and Craft NYC.
- Stephen Moore, chef-owner of Shelter, has worked with culinary icons including El Celler de Can Roca in Spain and Aman resorts in India, renowned for blending Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours with finesse.
- Chris Smith, trained in Michelin-starred restaurants in London and Paris, now leads the kitchens at Red Gunpowder and 7AM Bakers Club, bringing French technique together with Indian spices and Balinese produce.
The first dinner, on 18 October, will take place at FIRE, the resort’s beachfront smokehouse famed for its artistry with open flames. Guests will savour highlights such as whole roasted Wagyu ribeye, smoked duck with green chilli sauce, and a smoked banana split, all enjoyed under the starlit Maldivian sky. The second evening, on 20 October, moves to FISH, the overwater restaurant dedicated to fresh, ocean-sourced delicacies. Here, the menu will spotlight creations such as pilpil-style fresh catch with piquillo peppers, lobster risone in tom yum butter, and a vibrant array of seafood celebrating the Indian Ocean’s bounty.
“We are proud to welcome some of Bali’s leading chefs to the Maldives, curating culinary moments that go beyond expectation. This is a celebration of place, personality, and the unexpected,”
Amila Handunwala, General Manager, W Maldives
