Chef Nelly Robinson, a UK-born culinary genius known for his innovative and boundary-pushing cuisines, is set to join the team at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort from 1 to 4 September.
The acclaimed chef will grace The Lighthouse, a restaurant on the island, which offers a stunning 360-degree view of the resort and the mesmerising Indian Ocean.
Robinson’s culinary journey began at the Michelin-starred restaurant Northcote Manor in the United Kingdom (UK). Starting as a porter at 14, he quickly honed his skills and secured an apprenticeship, training under esteemed chefs like Nigel Haworth and his team, including Warrick Dodds and Mark Burchill. Reports from Sydney suggest that Nelly was considered one of the most skilled apprentices at Northcote.
Throughout his career, Robinson developed a deep appreciation for local and seasonal ingredients, a passion he has carried throughout his culinary endeavours. At 22, he was appointed head chef at Stanley House, marking his final UK stop before making the move to Australia.
Since then, Nelly has become one of Sydney’s top chef personalities, renowned for his meticulous attention to detail. Beyond his talent for blending flavours, he possesses exceptional social skills, setting him apart and earning him a dedicated following of both international and local guests.
Robinson’s culinary prowess has taken him to various Australian and international events as a special guest chef. Notable appearances include Obsession18 in the UK, as well as visits to Bangkok and Abu Dhabi, where he competed in the Taste of Abu Dhabi World’s Best Dish Competition alongside 11 leading chefs from around the world. Additionally, he had the privilege of designing a menu for Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday celebrations at the British High Commission in Canberra in 2017.
At 29, Robinson launched his culinary haven, NEL’, which continuously delights diners with ever-changing menus every 11 weeks, ensuring a unique experience with each visit.
This won’t be Robinson’s first encounter with the Maldives. In 2016, he hosted an exclusive dinner and masterclass at Vinum restaurant at PER AQUUM’s Huvafen Fushi luxury resort. InterContinental Maldives assures guests that they can anticipate creative, eclectic, and modern creations set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean’s breathtaking beauty. Robinson’s dishes not only tantalise the taste buds but also captivate the eye, turning simple dish names into explosive culinary journeys, says the hotel chain.
During his stay from September 1 to 4, 2023, guests at The Lighthouse can relish dishes like Kingfish Firebark, Wildfire Spiced Barramundi, and Chef Nelly’s take on Kedgeree, all naturally blended into the ocean-inspired ambience. Additionally, he will offer delectable options like lamb, local lobster, and intriguing vegetarian creations as both à la carte choices and a well-curated tasting menu, inviting guests to indulge in a culinary adventure like no other, according to the hotel chain.