Kuda Villingili’s Mar-Umi Wins Wine Spectator Award (Again!)

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has once again popped the cork on global recognition—Mar-Umi, the resort’s signature beachfront restaurant, has been awarded the 2025 Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator. This marks the second consecutive year the restaurant has earned the honor for its stellar wine program and elevated dining experience.

“This accolade is a testament to our passionate team at Mar-Umi,” said Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director. “We’ve built a wine list that pairs beautifully with our Nikkei and South American cuisine, enhancing every guest’s experience.”

At Mar-Umi, the day flows from bold South American lunches to delicate Nikkei dinners—led by Executive Chef Lalith Sharma and Chef Kimo (Ahmed Kamal). The restaurant recently added a Teppanyaki experience, combining precision cooking with theatrical flair right on the beach.

Behind the wine success is Chief Sommelier Samantha Kumara, who curates thoughtful pairings and a growing sake collection that adds depth to the dining journey.

And then there’s the setting—turquoise lagoon views, toes-in-the-sand vibes, and cocktails crafted by expert mixologists at the Mar-Umi Bar. It’s a full sensory celebration.

Mar-Umi joins 3,811 restaurants worldwide recognized in Wine Spectator’s 2025 Restaurant Awards. It stands proudly among 2,010 restaurants earning the Award of Excellence—celebrated for wine lists that are not just extensive, but thoughtfully aligned with the menu in both style and price.

Cheers to bold flavors, bold wines, and a team that keeps raising the bar.

Novotel Westlands Nairobi Chef wins Global Chef of the year at Better Kitchen Awards 2025

Nairobi Kenya ,July 2025: Novotel Nairobi Westlands’s Chef has emerged among the top winner of the third edition of the Better Kitchen Awards 2025 held in Mumbai India marking a proud moment for Kenya’s hospitality industry on the global stage.

The prestigious event recognized Chef Abhijeet Bagwe, Executive Chef at Novotel Nairobi Westlands, as a Global Chef, celebrating his outstanding culinary expertise and reaffirming both his and the hotel’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and cross-cultural culinary exchange.

Receiving the award, Chef Abhijeet expressed his gratitude, saying:

"I am truly honored to be recognized with this award. The Better Kitchen Awards are not only respected in India but also hold international prestige. In Nairobi’s hospitality circles, this recognition is seen as a symbol of excellence and a reflection of the high standards we strive for daily. This honour strengthens the power of passion, dedication, and consistency in our craft."

Fabio Gonsalves, General Manager of Novotel Nairobi Westlands, present at the awards praised the honour and Chef Abhijeet’s contribution to the Novotel Nairobi’s culinary journey "It is moments like these that remind us we are part of something much bigger. Our culinary story is not limited by geography, it is a global journey driven by passion. Having Chef Abhijeet represent Novotel Nairobi Westlands at such a prestigious platform made this recognition all the more meaningful."

Since opening its doors in August 2024, Chef Abhijeet has been a key part of the Novotel Nairobi Westlands team. Known for his hearty spreads and creative twists, he brings together local and international flavors in a way that keeps guests coming back. From everyday dining to special events, his dishes have quickly become a favorite among visitors and regulars alike setting a new standard for dining experiences in Nairobi.

The Better Kitchen Awards 2025 brought together over 300 leading professionals from the culinary, hospitality, and HoReCa sectors. The evening celebrated outstanding achievements in innovation, talent, and leadership across the kitchen and service industries across India and the globe.

Now considered one of the most anticipated events on the hospitality calendar, the Better Kitchen Awards honour individuals, institutions, and brands that have made a lasting impact on the growth and transformation of the industry. This year’s edition was themed ‘Nari Shakti’, shining a spotlight on the powerful contributions of women shaping the future of hospitality.

About Novotel Hotel Westlands

Novotel Westlands Nairobi, part of the globally renowned Accor Group, is a premium lifestyle and business hotel located in the heart of Nairobi’s dynamic Westlands district. Since its opening, the hotel has become a go-to destination for both business and leisure travelers, offering contemporary accommodations, world-class dining, and exceptional event spaces. With a strong focus on culinary innovation, immersive experiences, and sustainability, Novotel Westlands Nairobi seamlessly blends local and international flavors, making it a key player in Nairobi’s hospitality scene. Whether it’s a signature Sunday Brunch, themed culinary nights, or festive celebrations like Ramadan, the hotel continues to redefine experiential dining in the city.