The Cocoon Collection is proud to present its much-awaited Gourmet Week, which is being held at two of its luxurious properties in the Maldives: You & Me Maldives and Cocoon Maldives. This year’s theme, “La Dolce Vita,” is a fitting title for an indulgent occasion, as it reflects the Italian phrase for the sweet life. The Gourmet Week is led by the Corporate Executive Chef of the brand, Giovanni De Ambrosis, along with other renowned guest chefs.

Chef Roberto Balgisi opened the Gourmet Week with his culinary creations from February 16th to 22nd, 2023. As the Executive Chef at Grand Hotel Alassio, Chef Balgisi is known for curating unparalleled dining experiences for guests, using his culinary prowess, artistry, and curiosity. His creations are tailored to take gourmands on a poetic gastronomical journey, with music being one of his muses.

At Cocoon Maldives, Chef Balgisi greeted guests with curated dishes for the main buffet restaurant, Octopus, while setting down a special set of à la carte delights on the menu of the fine dining restaurant, Manta. Likewise, at You & Me Maldives, Chef Balgisi brought a unique addition to the dinner menu available at The Sand. During his residency, he also hosted a cooking show with Chef Giovanni De Ambrosis on the beach, highlighting the Italian dish Casarecce Pasta with Ligurian Pesto, which is among the most traditional ingredients from the celebrated Ligurian cuisine. The sumptuous dishes were served with Artisan Buratta on the white shores, where guests could enjoy the meal while taking in the breathtaking view of the lagoon.

During the month of March, the Gourmet Weeks continued with Chef Giovanni as he brought forth an assortment of delicacies prepared using the luxurious and ambrosial ingredient, truffles. From March 20th to 22nd, Chef Giovanni tantalized palates at Cocoon Maldives with the widely popular artisan Cocoon focaccia, served with bresaola, truffle honey touch, and balsamic truffle pearl. He also served fresh Maltagliati buckwheat pasta complemented with truffle butter and aged Parmigiano Reggiano.

From March 25th to 27th, Chef Giovanni took his culinary talents to You & Me Maldives, where guests had the rare opportunity to savor the piquant taste of Risotto Carnaroli, truffle, and lime zest. A delightful cooking show also took place during the stay, where Chef Giovanni shared with guests his secret recipe on how to make the perfect white snapper tartare with truffle and mango concasse.

To conclude the Gourmet Weeks, Michelin-starred Chef Andrea Berton curated You & Me Maldives’ underwater restaurant, H2O. Chef Berton, a regular presence at the property, is always prepared to share his latest culinary rediscovery or new creation with guests on the island. During his upcoming visit, he entertained guests with his brilliant philosophy to a sunset aperitif at the Shisha Lounge on the beach. Guests could also join Chef Berton at H2O to learn about his cooking masterpiece.

Gourmet week events at The Cocoon Collection always entail a truly memorable experience of an unmatched culinary journey with exceptional cuisine brought by special invitee chefs. True to the Italian tradition and philosophy, the experience aspires to embody a life immersed in enjoying the little moments passionately, while guests unwind and relax in their cocoons. The Gourmet Week is a must-attend for any food lover looking to indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience in one of the most beautiful places in the world.