Huvafen Fushi, the iconic Indian Ocean resort in the Maldives, is proud to announce a one-night-only culinary residency with the acclaimed two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Nikaku.
On Monday, 11 August 2025, Huvafen Fushi’s overwater restaurant RAW will host legendary Chef Setsuo Funahashi for an unforgettable 17-course omakase dinner, a type of Japanese meal consisting of dishes selected by the chef.
It’s set to be a unique journey into the heart of authentic Edomae sushi, a tradition dating back to Japan’s Edo period during the 1700s, developed as a way to preserve fish caught in Tokyo Bay. Without refrigeration or modern preservation techniques, sushi makers developed methods like curing with vinegar or salt, simmering and marinating in sauces.
Chef Funahashi, the third-generation owner of renowned sushi restaurant Nikaku in Kitakyushu, is a master of his craft, celebrated for his commitment to these ancient Japanese traditions. He sources the freshest fish from the Kanmon Straits, which separate the islands of Honshu and Kyushu. For this exclusive Huvafen event, all ingredients will be flown directly from Japan to ensure the very best level of freshness and authenticity.
Nikaku, which translates as “a pair of cranes” – a symbol of lasting prosperity – is a testament to the timeless artistry of sushi. Chef Funahashi continues a 200-year-old tradition, using the hontegaeshi technique for forming nigiri and perfecting the anbai, or balance, of salt and vinegar in his rice. Guests will experience this refined craftsmanship firsthand, as each course is presented as a singular work of art.
The intimate dinner will feature two seatings, each accommodating a maximum of eight guests, ensuring a highly personalised and exclusive experience. An optional pairing of premium champagne, fine white wines and exquisite sake will be available to complement the delicate flavours of the meal.
This collaboration highlights Huvafen Fushi’s commitment to creating extraordinary and refined culinary experiences for our guests. It’s a defining moment, bringing two beautiful worlds together: the effortless luxury of the Maldives and the exquisite, disciplined artistry of Japan, promising a night where every bite is a revelation.
At Huvafen Fushi, dining has always been an art form. From dawn to dusk, our idyllic venues offer a range of cuisines. Here, you can discover exquisite flavours with a gentle sea breeze and uninterrupted views and enjoy intimate fine-dining moments in the most enchanting of tropical settings.
SALT is considered one of the best restaurants in the Maldives, where elegant Japanese cuisine meets distinct Latin influences. Poised over the sea, this relaxed Izakaya-style venue, with small, shareable dishes designed to be enjoyed with drinks, invites you to uncover epicurean delights as the sun dips below the horizon.
For a lighter, healthier option, RAW serves 100% organic, raw food in a bistro-style setting. Enjoy invigorating juices and fresh, handpicked ingredients from the chef’s garden, all while taking in stunning ocean panoramas. It is this very venue that will host Chef Funahashi for his one-night residency.
