Sun Siyam Iru Veli recently hosted celebrated Czech chef Jan Punčochář for an exclusive culinary residency, bringing Czech culinary traditions, international expertise and creative island-inspired flavours to the Maldives.
Part of Sun Siyam’s Privé Collection, the resort hosted Chef Jan from 25 July to 1 August 2026 in partnership with Colours of Maldives. During his residency, he brought his distinctive culinary philosophy to Roma, the resort’s signature overwater restaurant known for its contemporary Italian and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
A Unique Culinary Experience in the Maldives
The highlight of the residency was an intimate Chef’s Table on 31 July, where Chef Jan created an exclusive multi-course menu for resort guests.
The menu drew inspiration from traditional Czech cuisine while incorporating fresh Maldivian ingredients and island-inspired flavours. Carefully selected wine pairings accompanied the courses, creating a complete gastronomic experience for guests.
The residency also began building a connection between Chef Jan and the resort’s guests through a special cocktail evening on 28 July. The relaxed event gave guests the opportunity to meet the chef, learn more about his culinary approach and interact with him ahead of the main Chef’s Table experience.
Sharing Culinary Expertise
Beyond guest-facing experiences, Chef Jan also worked directly with the culinary team at Sun Siyam Iru Veli.
Through hands-on kitchen sessions, he shared techniques, ideas and professional expertise with the resort’s chefs. This element of the residency highlighted the wider value of international chef collaborations, creating opportunities for culinary teams to exchange knowledge and explore new approaches to food.
For guests, this means that a culinary residency can extend beyond a single dinner, contributing to the development of new ideas and experiences within the resort’s dining programme.
Meet Chef Jan Punčochář
Chef Jan Punčochář is one of the Czech Republic’s recognised culinary personalities, with a career shaped by experience in leading European kitchens.
He is behind acclaimed Prague restaurants including U Matěje, Stůl and Šnycl, and has gained international experience through stages at renowned establishments such as Hangar 7 in Austria and Tim Raue in Germany.
His culinary style is known for honest, seasonal cooking, precise technique and thoughtful wine pairing.
Beyond the restaurant kitchen, Chef Jan is also widely recognised by Czech television audiences as a judge on MasterChef Česko and as host and judge of Hell’s Kitchen Česko.
Culinary Travel Meets the Maldives
The residency demonstrates how luxury Maldives resorts are increasingly creating experiences that go beyond accommodation and traditional resort dining.
For food-focused travelers, opportunities to meet renowned chefs, experience exclusive menus and discover international culinary traditions in an island setting can add another dimension to a Maldives holiday.
At Sun Siyam Iru Veli, the combination of overwater dining, international culinary talent and Maldivian ingredients creates an experience that connects destination, culture and gastronomy.
Sun Siyam’s Commitment to Culinary Experiences
The collaboration forms part of Sun Siyam Resorts’ signature chef residency programme, which brings respected culinary talent to the Maldives.
In partnership with Colours of Maldives, the initiative supports not only memorable guest experiences but also cultural exchange and professional development within resort culinary teams.
By welcoming chefs from different culinary backgrounds, Sun Siyam continues to explore new perspectives and introduce guests to distinctive dining experiences during their island stays.
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