Michelin-Star Chef Begona Rodrigo To Host Exclusive Pop-Up At Le Meridien Maldives
Thursday 23rd of February 2023
This Easter, Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa invites Michelin-starred Chef Begona Rodrigo for an exclusive pop-up, coinciding with the launching of its new restaurant, Riviera Tapas & Bar. Chef Begona will initiate her culinary programme at Le Meridien Maldives on April 7th, as she takes guests along on a gastronomical journey that includes two exquisite dinners, bespoke tasting menus and an evening of Petit Plates.
Hailing from Spain, the acclaimed chef was the winner of the first edition of Top Chef Spain and was named the best cook in the Valencian Community. She is also the owner and executive chef of the 1-Michelin-starred Valencian restaurant, La Salita. Now, Chef Begona prepares to bring her culinary talents to the heart of the Indian Ocean by hosting a unique pop-up at the resort. During her residency, two grand dinners with special tasting menus will be hosted alongside an evening of Petit Plats.
Her tasting menu will make room for inspiring and innovative dishes including Scallops, Sea Lettuce & Cream of Pine Nuts, Parsnip Carbonara, Kimchi & Pork Belly, Strawberries, Yoghurt, Yuzu & Ginger. Additionally, Chef Begona will also lead a culinary masterclass where gourmand guests will have the opportunity to learn the secrets of cooking a handful of sumptuous dishes such as the popular paella. Other than the trill of cooking under a gastronomical maven, guests will gain valuable insights into the process and numerous tips on ways to improve their culinary arts.
Commenting on the upcoming pop-up, Chef Begona says “I am thrilled to be bringing the cuisine of my homeland to the Maldives and treating diners to dishes packed with Valencian flavours and teaching guests how to cook dishes from the Mediterranean such as the famed paella.”
The newly-opened beachside restaurant, Riviera Tapas & Bar found its muse in the bustling boulevards of Southern Spain and is designed to celebrate long summers. True to its inspiration, Riviera Tapas & Bar will deliver the flavours and aromas of Catalonia with Petit Plates enthused by Spain’s rich culinary vibrancy. Chef Begona’s Easter Delights pop-up will be held from April 7-10, where guests can indulge in 6-course tasting menus and other delectable offerings during their stay.
Director of F&B at Le Meridien Maldives, Michal Zemlika, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Chef Begona to our island paradise and celebrate the launch of our new Restaurant Riviera Tapas & Bar. She is an extremely talented chef and we know guests will enjoy her award-winning cuisine.”
