If your travel plans take you to the Maldives this June-and you’ve got a soft spot for Indian food done differently-here’s something to look forward to.
From 7 to 12 June 2025, Jumeirah Olhahali Island will host a one-of-a-kind culinary pop-up in collaboration with Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia, the much-loved Indian restaurant from Jumeirah Al Qasr in Dubai. For a few unforgettable nights, the island’s kitchens will be led by Chef Aniket Chatterjee, bringing a fresh take on Indian cuisine to the shores of the Maldives.
A Fresh Spin on Familiar Flavours
Atrangi has never been about playing it safe. Under the creative direction of Ritu Dalmia, the restaurant is known for its bold take on Indian food-mixing tradition with invention, comfort with curiosity. And now, that same spirit is heading to the Maldives.
Chef Aniket’s menu for this pop-up brings together regional favourites and modern techniques, offering a five-course tasting experience that’s anything but ordinary. You’ll start with a nostalgic (but reimagined) chilli cheese toast, move on to pickled doodhi with smoked dahi, then dive into something richer-Malvani chicken tikka with confit garlic or a paneer peeli mirch tikka with spring onion curry, if you prefer vegetarian. And that’s just the beginning.
There’s a palate-cleansing whipped butter board, mains like kappa meen curry or satu pulao with dalma, and to finish it all off-an Indian dessert with a twist, followed by a playful bite of pistachio soan papdi and mini jalebi with rabri.
Dine by the Ocean, Under the Stars
Of course, this isn’t just about the food. It’s about the setting. Think relaxed beachfront grills, oceanfront dinners, and long evenings spent under the stars with waves just a few steps away. It’s intimate, it’s immersive, and it’s the kind of dining experience that stays with you.
Chef Ritu Dalmia herself shared her excitement, saying, “The Maldives has always been close to my heart. This is a chance to bring some of our favourite community-inspired dishes to life, while also having fun with the incredible local ingredients here.”
If you’re already planning to be in the Maldives, this is something worth carving out time for. And if you weren’t? Maybe this is the excuse you’ve been waiting for.
Book your island escape with Lets Go Maldives and make sure you’re there when Atrangi arrives.
