When Rome Meets the Reef: A Two-Day Culinary Pop-Up at Patina Maldives - Lets Go Maldives

When Rome Meets the Reef: A Two-Day Culinary Pop-Up at Patina Maldives

April 25, 2025

Every now and then, something comes along that stirs the senses in just the right way-where craft, creativity, and setting come together so effortlessly, it just works. That’s exactly what’s happening at Patina Maldives on April 24 and 25, 2025.

For two days only, the resort will host a special culinary collaboration between Chef Luciano Monosilio, Italy’s so-called “King of Carbonara,” and the inventive minds behind Veleno Bar, one of Vienna’s most talked-about cocktail spots. It’s a celebration of bold flavors, unexpected pairings, and the joy of sharing a table in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

A Roman Icon Brings His Craft to the Maldives

Chef Luciano isn’t your typical guest chef. With a Michelin star earned by 27 and a reputation for transforming Italian classics into something fresh and unforgettable, he brings a level of heart and precision that’s hard to come by. His Roman carbonara, in particular, has taken on legendary status.

At Patina, he’s not just cooking-he’s sharing a piece of his story. The event begins at Farine, the resort’s warm and welcoming dining space, with a sunset cocktail hour where Luciano’s specially crafted canapés meet Veleno’s imaginative drinks.

Dinner follows, blending island soul with Italian roots-think a semi-buffet where Luciano’s à la carte dishes are woven seamlessly into the evening’s offerings. Familiar, but completely fresh.

Hands-On Moments & Behind-the-Scenes Creativity

On day two, things get even more personal. At Koen, a select group of 12 guests will join Luciano in the kitchen for a hands-on Carbonara Cooking Class-complete with a playful mocktail and dessert pairing to match. It’s a chance to learn directly from the man himself and uncover the subtleties that make this dish a Roman treasure.

Back at Fari Beach Club, the team from Veleno is busy sharing their own brand of magic. Luca, one of the bar’s creative leads, will host a cocktail masterclass for Patina’s in-house mixologists-a chance to pass on the bar’s signature approach to sustainability, boldness, and pushing boundaries.

More Than a Meal

The pop-up wraps up with a final dinner at Farine, where stories have been swapped, new flavors discovered, and guests leave with more than just full plates-they leave with a sense of having experienced something rare.

If you’re someone who finds joy in the details-in good food, great company, and the kinds of moments that feel effortless but stay with you long after-you’ll feel right at home here.

Curious to be part of it?

Head to the offer page and book now with Lets Go Maldives.

Because some tables are worth traveling for.

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