10 Years of Culinary Excellence at Diamonds Maldives
Diamonds Athuruga and Thudufushi celebrate 10 years of Dining with the Stars, a culinary event that elevates the Maldives' food scene.
The Maldives is known for its gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious overwater villas – making it the ultimate dream destination. But beyond its natural beauty, it’s also a paradise for food lovers, especially at Diamonds Athuruga and Diamonds Thudufushi. These two five-star resorts are not only renowned for their exceptional hospitality but also for hosting Dining with the Stars, an extraordinary culinary event celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025. Book your Maldives package with Thompsons Holidays and enjoy these culinary diamonds.
What Makes the Maldives a Unique Destination?
The Maldives is unlike any other place on Earth. Made up of roughly 1,200 coral islands, this tropical paradise offers everything you could possibly dream of – incredible beaches, crystal-clear lagoon waters, and some of the world’s best diving and snorkelling spots.
The Maldives is home to vibrant marine life, from manta rays to whale sharks, making it a top choice for underwater adventures. Luxury overwater villas, world-class resorts, and exclusive dining experiences elevate every visit into something truly unforgettable. Whether you're craving romantic seclusion, thrilling water sports, or gourmet dining, the Maldives delivers it all in spectacular fashion.
What is Dining with the Stars?
A decade ago, Planhotel Hospitality Group partnered with JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs, a prestigious association of young and innovative chefs from around the world. Since then, over 250 JRE chefs have showcased their skills at Diamonds Athuruga and Diamonds Thudufushi, creating one-of-a-kind gourmet experiences for guests. This annual event has become a highlight for food connoisseurs, offering exquisite dishes in an unparalleled tropical setting.
For the 10th anniversary edition in 2025, guests can expect an even more spectacular line-up of renowned chefs, each unveiling unique creations that blend fine dining with the essence of the Maldives. Imagine savouring a world-class meal while the ocean stretches endlessly before you – a true celebration of taste, luxury, and nature.
Why Stay at Diamonds Athuruga?
Found in the South Ari Atoll, Diamonds Athuruga is a quick 30-minute seaplane ride from Malé International Airport, offering guests the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience. The resort offers a variety of accommodation:
- Beachfront Villas: Step directly onto the soft white sand from your private veranda.
- Beach Junior Suites: Enjoy added space and a large outdoor bathroom.
- Water Villas: Private terraces, four-poster king-sized beds, and direct access to the turquoise lagoon.
Dining Experiences at Diamonds Athuruga
Food is at the heart of the Diamonds Athuruga experience. Guests can enjoy multiple dining venues, each offering something special:
- Maakeyn Island Restaurant: A lavish buffet featuring international and local Maldivian dishes.
- Thari Overwater Restaurant: Fusion cuisine combining European and Asian flavours.
- Thila Japanese Restaurant: Teppanyaki-style seafood and meats, cooked in front of you.
- Farivalhu Maldivian Dining: An interactive cultural dining experience under the stars.
- Kakuni Seafood Experience: Freshly caught seafood and romantic beachside dining.
- Boli Beach Bar & Thari Overwater Bar: Perfect for sunset cocktails and light bites.
Guests can also enjoy water sports, diving excursions, sunset fishing, and yoga sessions during their stay.
Why Stay at Diamonds Thudufushi?
Found on the edge of the South Ari Atoll, Diamonds Thudufushi offers an equally luxurious yet slightly more intimate experience.
Accommodation options include:
- Beach Villas: 13 beachfront villas with private verandas and direct lagoon access.
- Beachfront Junior Suites: 23 junior suites and 9 sandbank suites with outdoor bathrooms and sea views.
- Beach Suite: A spacious suite with an oversized veranda, smart TV, and walk-in wardrobe.
- Water Villas: 23 overwater villas with private terraces, four-poster king-sized beds, and elegant interiors.
Dining Experiences at Diamonds Thudufushi
- Maakana Restaurant: Offers buffet-style dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring a wide selection of international dishes, fresh seafood, pizzas, pastas, and themed dinner nights with live cooking stations.
- Aqua Over Water Restaurant: A fusion restaurant blending modern European and Asian flavours.
- Farivalhu Maldivian Experience: A traditional Maldivian dinner under the stars, where guests participate in the preparation of authentic dishes.
- Thila Japanese Restaurant: Serves Teppanyaki-style seafood and meats, with live cooking performances overlooking the ocean.
- Kakuni Seafood Experience: A romantic beachside dinner, featuring freshly caught seafood and lobster specialties.
- Veli Beach Bar: A relaxed beachfront bar, perfect for unwinding with a cocktail after a day of exploring the reef.
- Aqua Over Water Bar: Offers all-inclusive drinks at sunset, with Champagne and premium spirits available at an extra charge.
- Maakana Main Bar: Serves a variety of cocktails, wines, beers, and soft drinks in an open-air setting.
Guests at Diamonds Thudufushi can also experience diving, sunset snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, and catamaran sailing during their stay.
Holidays You Can Pay Off – Enjoy Now, Pay Later
Planning a dream luxury Maldives getaway? Thompsons has partnered with Mobicred, the leaders in digital credit, to offer a simple way of planning and saving for your trip. With Mobicred, you can pay off your holiday monthly, making it easier to experience the magic of the Maldives without upfront costs.
Experience Dining with the Stars in 2025
The 10th anniversary of Dining with the Stars promises to be the most spectacular edition yet. If you’re passionate about fine dining, world-class hospitality, and sustainable luxury, this is the event for you.
Let Thompsons Holidays ensure your Maldives trip is unforgettable. Book now and secure your place at this exclusive culinary celebration.