Michelin-Starred Plant-Based Cuisine Meets Island Spirit at Nova Maldives

13 Jan 26

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Good soul days often begin around the table, where food becomes a shared language of feeling and connection. At Nova, dining continues to be guided by community, curiosity and a deep respect for what nourishes both body and mind. This May, the island will welcome a culinary voice that feels instinctively aligned with this spirit. 

From 10 to 15 May 2026, Nova will host a rare and intimate gastronomic experience shaped by purpose and clarity. It will be a moment where vegetables, time and island rhythm come together naturally.

A Philosophy Led by Vegetables

Acclaimed chef, Sebastian Frank from two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Horváth in Berlin, will be bringing his emancipated vegetable cuisine to Nova through a philosophy rooted in honesty and intention. Known for redefining fine dining, his work will celebrate ingredients without disguise. Each dish will be guided by craftsmanship rather than excess. It will be food that speaks quietly yet leaves a lasting impression.

Time, Technique and Taste

Created exclusively for Nova, Chef Sebastian’s  “Roots & Waves” menus will explore vegetables and fruit through depth and time. Aubergine, spinach and pumpkin will take centre stage, shaped by fermentation, ageing and careful technique. The flavours will unfold slowly, encouraging presence with every bite. This approach will reflect Nova’s sustainability-led ethos and respect for natural rhythms.

Shared Tables, Thoughtful Pairings

Two exclusive gourmet dinners will take place at Flames on 10 and 15 May 2026, offering intimate evenings of shared discovery. On 12 May 2026, guests will be invited to join a plant-based cooking class at Soul Kitchen. Here, Chef Sebastian will present his iconic  “Celery – Mature and Young” dish. The year-long maturation process will reveal patience as an ingredient in itself. Alongside the menus, an optional non-alcoholic pairing of teas, vegetable juices and refined reductions will be offered, adding another thoughtful layer to the experience.

When Enjoyment, Sustainability and Soul Align

This experience will bring together enjoyment, sustainability and a modern way of living that feels natural to Nova. Thoughtfully crafted and rooted in purpose, it will reflect how conscious choices and creativity can shape memorable moments around the table. 

Contact us today at [email protected] or +960 66 88 777 to book your gastronomic adventure at Nova with Chef Sebastian Frank. Don’t forget to subscribe to our Soulful Tales newsletter for the latest updates and exclusive offers – including 20% off your next stay. 

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