Danish chef Jesper Koch is returning to Vakkaru Maldives this autumn for a series of exclusive dining experiences.

Koch will work alongside Vakkaru Maldives’ culinary team to create a series of bespoke meals that bring together his Nordic culinary heritage with the flavours and ingredients of the Maldives.

The highlight will be three exclusive five-course tasting-menu evenings at Vakkaru Reserve, the resort’s wine cellar. The menus will combine Nordic techniques and traditions with local ingredients, including seafood and produce grown at Vakkaru’s Organic Farm, with each course designed to reflect the natural meeting point between Denmark and the Maldives. Guests will be able to choose between wine and non-alcoholic pairings.

The programme will open with a cocktail reception, giving guests the opportunity to meet Koch and hear more about the culinary collaboration. With more than three decades in hospitality and gastronomy, Koch is regarded as one of Denmark’s leading culinary figures. His career has included leading Restaurant Syttende to Michelin recognition, being named Danish Chef of the Year, representing Denmark at the Bocuse d’Or, receiving an Honorary Diploma from the Danish Gastronomic Academy and being recognised as Chef’s Chef by the Danish Gastronomy Foundation. He is also widely known in Denmark as a judge on the Danish edition of MasterChef.

“My first visit gave me the opportunity to spend time with the team, exchange ideas and experience the spirit of Vakkaru first-hand,” Koch says. “Returning now feels like a natural continuation of what we started. I am looking forward to being back in the kitchen and, most importantly, to sharing our work with guests through these dinners.”