The Maldives continues to strengthen its position as a destination for world-class hospitality and culinary talent. On 20 September 2026, Michelin-starred chef Romain Dupeyre will lead the inaugural masterclass at Bestbuy Maldives (BBM)’s Studio of Culinary Excellence.
The initiative brings international culinary expertise to the Maldives while creating new learning opportunities for the country’s next generation of hospitality professionals.
A Michelin-Starred Chef Comes to the Maldives
Chef Romain Dupeyre, executive chef and founder of Racines in Hong Kong, will open the masterclass series with a live cooking demonstration and interactive food appreciation session.
Participants will also receive a certificate of participation, making the session an opportunity for both practical learning and professional development.
Following the masterclass, Chef Dupeyre will travel to OBLU SELECT Sangeli, where he will host a special guest culinary event.
From Southern France to Hong Kong
Originally from Nice in southern France, Chef Dupeyre began his culinary career at just 15 as an apprentice at the two-Michelin-starred La Chèvre d’Or.
His international career later took him to Ireland, Paris, Melbourne and Bangkok before he moved to Hong Kong in 2019. There, he became chef de cuisine at Petrus at Island Shangri-La.
In November 2022, Chef Dupeyre founded Racines, a restaurant inspired by the culinary traditions of southern France. The restaurant received its first Michelin star in 2024 and retained the distinction in 2025 and 2026.
Building the Future of Maldivian Hospitality
The Studio of Culinary Excellence was established through an initiative by BBM Chairman and Managing Director, Mr Ismail Hilmy. The model kitchen was donated to the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies at The Maldives National University (MNU).
The studio provides culinary students with access to modern facilities and training aligned with international hospitality standards.
Bringing internationally recognised chefs to the studio is an important part of the initiative. Chef Dupeyre’s masterclass marks the beginning of this programme, connecting Maldivian hospitality education with global culinary expertise.
For the Maldives tourism industry, initiatives like this highlight the importance of investing in professional development, culinary education and the future of hospitality talent.
Experience the Maldives with Lets Go Maldives
As the leading travel company in the Maldives, Lets Go Maldives connects travellers and international travel partners with exceptional Maldives resort experiences.
Whether you are planning a Maldives holiday, looking for memorable culinary experiences, or seeking B2B partnerships, resort bookings and travel opportunities, our team is ready to assist.
Contact Our Team Now
B2B Partnerships & Trade Enquiries: reserve@letsgomaldives.com
WhatsApp / Telegram / Viber: +960 734-4552
Partner with Lets Go Maldives for Maldives resort bookings, rates and B2B travel opportunities.