Maldives underwater restaurant’s five-course $400 menu

Maldives underwater restaurant’s five-course $400 menu
Edited by Travel Weekly


Niyama Private Islands Maldives has unveiled a world-first five-course US$250 ($400) Nikkei tasting menu at its underwater restaurant Subsix.

Named after its setting half a kilometre out to sea and six metres below the surface, Subsix has been the setting of novel experiences, from champagne breakfasts to midnight glow parties, since its inception over a decade ago. Subsix is reached by speedboat before guests descend a dramatic three-tier staircase.

Italian abstract chandeliers illuminate the descent like shining coral. In the depths, there are swooping curves of a clam-inspired bar, anemone chairs and waves of capiz shells draped from the ceiling.

A wall of glass looks through to rainbow corals, diners can observe a rainbow of anemone as well as butterflyfish, damselfish, parrotfish, moorish idols, while moray eels slide through the lagoon. Groupers also make appearances, while the resident Hawksbill turtle glides in for a visit and the occasional reef shark swims by.

The new Nikkei tasting menu marries Japanese tradition and precision with Peruvian boldness and artistry, the five courses showcase the riches of the surrounding Indian Ocean, with sustainably sourced ingredients presented in a modern, playful manner, the resort says.

Each dish has been created up by executive chef Thierry Vergnault who trained in the classics at the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris, before exploring the rest of the world.

Highlights include a scallop ceviche; locally-caught wahoo tartare; and a buttery cod served with crisp asparagus. To enhance their experience, guests can choose a curated selection of sake or fine wines, meticulously chosen by head sommelier, Mayank Sharma.

There are nine restaurants and bars at Niyama under Vergnault, who trained at the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris and other venues all over the world. They include newly relaunched Nest where Asian cuisine is served up in the treetops, to jungle Tribal with culinary exploration of South America and Africa, to Indian Ocean Edge, set out in the midst of the water.

“With a setting as extraordinary as Subsix, nothing less than an extraordinary menu will do, one that intrigues all five senses and excites the palate with every bite,” Vergnault said. “And as with all our restaurants, we take great pride in showcasing fresh, quality ingredients straight from the beautiful waters that surround.”

Latest News

  • Events

AIME 2025 is underway!

If you're headed down to AIME we hope you brought your networking shoes because it's going to be big!

  • Events

IAAPA Expo Asia 2025 opens exhibitor registration

The IAAPA Expo Asia, the premier amusement industry trade show in the Asia-Pacific, has opened exhibitor registrations for its 2025 event on 30 June to 3 July in Shanghai. This international extravaganza showcases the newest technological advancements and innovative solutions in the attractions industry from more than 300 exhibitors, with over 10,000 attendees expected to […]