This November, Nova Maldives is preparing something truly special for food lovers, wellness seekers, and curious travelers alike. The soulful island resort will welcome British plant-based culinary creator and author Elly Smart for a two-day celebration of modern plant-based cuisine, Maldivian heritage, and island creativity.
For those who believe food is more than flavor – it is connection, culture, and emotion – Nova’s newest collaboration fits perfectly with the resort’s philosophy: slow living, community, and joy through meaningful experiences.
A Culinary Collaboration with Heart
Elly Smart is widely admired for transforming familiar comfort dishes into plant-powered delights – playful, wholesome, and beautifully crafted. Across two unique events, she’ll cook side by side with Nova’s award-winning Executive Chef Sobah Hassan, blending British culinary artistry with authentic Maldivian tradition.
Together, they will create A Soulful Plant-Based Celebration – a moment where food becomes storytelling, where community comes alive, and where every bite reflects both creativity and island heritage.
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Two Days, Two Experiences, One Beautiful Philosophy
An Evening with Elly – 14 November
A star-lit dinner crafted with locally sourced ingredients and inspired by Maldivian flavors.
Guests will taste a unique regional twist on Elly’s well-loved tofu meatballs, surrounded by a menu that begins and ends with Maldivian-inspired dishes. Elly will personally introduce each course, sharing the ideas and passion behind every plate.
It’s more than dinner – it’s a celebration of connection, flavour, and art.
Cooking with Elly at Soul Kitchen – 16 November
An intimate, interactive cooking experience that brings Elly’s creativity forward.
Guests will watch her iconic tofu dish come to life, tasting and exploring her approach to plant-based cuisine. True to Nova’s spirit, this workshop is relaxed, friendly, and designed to bring people together.
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Why Nova Maldives Is the Perfect Setting
Plant-based dining is not a trend in the Maldives – it is tradition. For generations, island communities have created flavourful dishes from coconut, rice, tropical fruits, and vegetables. Rooted in resourceful island living, Maldivian cuisine naturally celebrates sustainability, wellness, and simplicity.
Nova embraces this legacy. With its modern all-inclusive community concept, vibrant dining spaces, serene villas, and a strong focus on joy, wellness, and planet-friendly living, the resort offers the ideal home for a culinary celebration like this.
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A Taste of What Awaits at Nova Maldives
• A soulful island designed for connection and creativity
• Overwater and beach villas with endless ocean views
• Vibrant dining led by passionate chefs
• A welcoming community atmosphere
• Wellness, sustainability, and joyful living at its core
• Snorkeling, art, culture, beach fun, and pure island freedom
At Nova, everything is built around simple luxury, warm community, and the feeling of being truly at home.
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Be Part of This Culinary Journey
From star-lit dining to hands-on cooking, this two-day collaboration celebrates the best of Nova: storytelling through food, inspired island living, and moments that nourish both the body and the soul.
Ready to experience it for yourself?
Book your stay through Lets Go Maldives and be part of this unforgettable culinary celebration at Nova Maldives. Just say the word, and we’ll arrange every detail – your villa, seaplane transfer, and your seat at Elly Smart’s plant-based experience.
