Vakkaru Maldives to Host One-Night Tuscan Dinner with Michelin Star Chef

Vakkaru Maldives is hosting a one night ultra-exclusive wine dinner on 22 January 2023, in collaboration with the famed Banfi winery, Michelin star Chef Domenico Francone, and Di-vine Cellars Maldives. Set on the stunning Isoletta beach, Chef Domenico celebrates the best of tuscan flavors with a five-course dinner with an accompanying wine selection from the Banfi portfolio. 

“I am thrilled to bring the authentic flavors of Tuscany to Vakkaru and to share my passion for Italian cuisine with the guests,” says Chef Domenico. “The combination of my signature dishes such as the ‘Tortelli like Eggplant Parmigiana’ and the ‘Tenderloin, artichoke, vegetables caponata and Brunello di Montalcino Jus’, and the exceptional wines from Banfi will create a truly unforgettable dining experience. “

Featured Image: Banfi Winery 

Banfi was founded in 1978 by Italian-American brothers John and Harry Mariani. Banfi has built a successful and notable history through four key pillars — pioneering, research, innovation, and sustainability. Located just outside the hilltop village of Montalcino in Tuscany, Banfi produces world-class Brunello’s, Rosso’s and Super Tuscans. Banfi also operates other estates throughout Tuscany and Piedmont, producing various red, white, and rose wines.  

Originally from Puglia, Chef Domenico Francone was raised with a strong culinary tradition. Upon graduation from IPSAR Antonio Turi in Matera, he furthered his career in prestigious Italian and international restaurants, including at Apsleys, a starred Heinz Beck restaurant in London. Chef Fomenico was offered the executive chef post at Banfi’s restaurant La Taverna. Later he was entrusted with heading the opening of La Sala dei Grappoli with a seasonal menu of modern traditionally tuscan inspired dishes that won the restaurant its first Michelin Star in 2020. 

Speaking about the upcoming Tuscan dinner, Iain McCormack, General Manager at Vakkaru Maldives, says, “We are always looking for ways to enhance the guest experience at Vakkaru and give them elevated culinary offerings. Thanks to Di-vine Cellars, this collaboration with Chef Domenico and Banfi allows us to do just that. We can’t wait for our guests to experience the authentic Italian taste and exceptional wines at Isoletta.” 

Featured Image: Vakkaru Maldives 

For reservations and general information, visit vakkarumaldives.com or contact  reservations@vakkarumaldives.com.Vakkaru