This November, Velaa Private Island invites discerning travellers to experience a truly extraordinary culinary journey.
Set in the heart of the Maldives, this ultra-luxury hideaway transforms into a global stage for gastronomic excellence during its highly anticipated Gastronomy Month 2025 – a celebration of taste, artistry, and innovation.
Where Fine Dining Becomes an Art Form
Throughout November, Velaa will welcome a curated lineup of the world’s most respected culinary talents and wine experts.
The series of exclusive events unfolds across the island’s fine-dining venues, Aragu and Tavaru, each evening promising an unforgettable encounter between heritage, flavour, and creativity.
Highlights of Gastronomy Month 2025
- 2 & 4 November – François Labet
The legendary Burgundy winemaker behind Château de la Tour and Domaine Pierre Labet will host exclusive dinners at Aragu. Expect terroir-driven Clos-Vougeot Grand Cru wines paired with refined menus that speak of tradition and timeless elegance.
- 5 & 7 November – Chef Kanji Kobayashi
Two-star Michelin chef and founder of Japan’s Villa Aida, Kobayashi brings his philosophy of agrigastronomy to Tavaru. His dishes, rooted in nature and the seasons, reflect a rare harmony between Japanese finesse and Italian warmth.
- 12 & 14 November – Chef Brian Mark Hansen
Celebrated Danish chef of Søllerød Kro and Bocuse d’Or gold medallist, Hansen blends classic French culinary foundations with Nordic purity. His four-hands collaboration at Aragu promises refinement and bold creativity.
- 19 & 22 November – Beans Boughton
One of only 419 Masters of Wine globally, Boughton curates wine pairings that elevate every course into a storytelling experience. With his global wine insight, guests will savour rare bottles and insightful pairings at Aragu.
- 26 & 28 November – Chef Adeline Grattard
Returning to the island where she helped shape its culinary identity, the Michelin-starred chef of Paris’s Yam’Tcha fuses French technique with Asian inspiration. Her return is both nostalgic and groundbreaking.
About Velaa Private Island
Tucked away in the Noonu Atoll, Velaa Private Island is one of the most exclusive destinations in the Maldives. The name “Velaa” means “turtle” in the local language – a tribute to the generations of sea turtles that have nested on its shores.
Designed with complete privacy in mind, the island offers just 47 villas, each blending contemporary luxury with traditional Maldivian charm.
From private residences with personal butlers to the Maldives’ only snow room, Velaa sets the benchmark for secluded sophistication. The overwater Aragu Restaurant, led by Executive Chef Gaushan de Silva, has earned acclaim for its progressive fine dining, while the vertical Tavaru Tower is home to one of the region’s most impressive wine collections.
Why Visit This November
For gastronomes, wine lovers, and seekers of refined experiences, November is the most inspiring time to visit Velaa Private Island. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in the art of living well, Gastronomy Month 2025 offers a rare chance to dine with the masters, under the stars, in one of the most beautiful settings on Earth.
Planning Your Journey
As a boutique travel agency based in the UAE, SEANSES crafts bespoke escapes to the Indian Ocean’s most exceptional resorts. For personalised recommendations, travel planning, and exclusive privileges at Velaa Private Island, reach out to our team and let us design your culinary escape to remember.
