Simply Abu Dhabi XXIX

The atmosphere is so homely, warm and welcoming that it’s little surprise to learn that it’s a family run business. Part of the family and Marketing and Sales Manager, Sarah Hilmy couldn’t be more welcoming a host. Giving an overview of the resorts Sarah says, “Coco Collection is a haven for lovers of travel and style. Each celebrates traditional Maldivian architecture and ambiance. But each offers a distinct and extraordinary reality.” Keen to focus on the range of cuisine and the amazing restaurants at Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Sarah arranged for an extensive gastronomical tour to experience the atmosphere, meticulous service and the authentically Maldivian dishes served on the resorts. Beginning at Coco Bodu Hithi, it doesn’t take long to witness the respect and importance given to food and a healthy diet that embraces pleasure here. There are five restaurants and two bars that share the secrets of local cuisine as well as offering global favourites. Sarah also mentions that Michelin-starred chefs visit the restaurants every year to create one-off experiences—a testament to Coco Collection’s reputation for serving some of the best food in the Maldives. A perfect example is when Chef Annie hosts a special weekly experience where a Thai dinner is prepared with a cooking demonstration at the Coco Residence library. Bringing a scintillating taste of Thailand and a home- cooked vibe to the event, Annie invites you to a shared family-style dinner experience with other fellow guests. As she cooks, Annie reveals lots of facts about the ingredients and explains the creation of the dishes, also providing handy little hacks on how to perfect each dish. Some of the highlights include classic Thai canapés like Ka Nom Pang Na Gai—deep fried minced prawn on toast—and Larb Kai Poh Pia Sod, a spicy minced chicken spring roll. From authentic home-cooking experiences to fine dining to beach barbecues, there’s something different to discover every night at the resorts. Air is the gorgeous poolside restaurant and home to diverse breakfast buffets and themed dinners. Guests choose from an À la carte menu of vibrant European salads, Maldivian specialties, prime cuts charred to perfection on the grill, and mouth-watering desserts. Indian, Arabian, Italian or French: the dinner buffets celebrate iconic cuisines. Aqua is the fine-dining restaurant with a special focus on fresh seafood. The chefs showcase the fragrant delicacy of Thai and South East Asian flavours in a seasonal menu that is based on the day’s local catch. In 2016, it was voted ‘Best luxury seafood restaurant in the Maldives’ in the World Luxury Restaurant Awards. Situated on wooden decks suspended over the