JOALI BEING Partners with Chef Kelvin Cheung for an Exclusive Culinary Experience in the Maldives

Published on February 3, 2026

By: Paramita Sarkar

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JOALI BEING, a luxury wellness resort in the Maldives, has announced an exclusive culinary residency with Chef Kelvin Cheung, a trailblazer in Third Culture cuisine, recognized by the MICHELIN Guide and MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants. Taking place from February 18 to 22, 2026, the partnership marks a unique culinary celebration during the Lunar New Year. The event invites guests to immerse themselves in a thoughtfully curated culinary journey that blends cultures, flavors, and creative expression, all set in the idyllic surroundings of the Maldives.

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What Is the Focus of the Culinary Residency?

The residency at JOALI BEING will center around Chef Kelvin Cheung’s distinctive approach to Third Culture cuisine, which draws on his rich cultural experiences and background. Born in Canada, raised in Chicago, and now based in Dubai, Chef Cheung’s culinary philosophy is shaped by his diverse heritage, blending Chinese, North American, and classical French influences. His approach emphasizes balance, harmony, and intention—values that align seamlessly with the principles of JOALI BEING, which is dedicated to wellness, sustainability, and conscious living.

The residency offers a series of exclusive dining experiences, immersive workshops, and hands-on cooking classes, allowing guests to connect deeply with food as both nourishment and an expression of creativity. Whether through shared dining moments or interactive culinary sessions, Chef Cheung’s residency reflects his commitment to cultural storytelling and bringing people together through the joy of food.

How Will the Event Unfold?

The five-day residency at JOALI BEING will feature a diverse array of events aimed at engaging guests of all ages and backgrounds. Highlights of the program include:

1. Exclusive Dinners: Chef Cheung will host a series of intimate, exclusive dinners that showcase his signature Third Culture creations. These dishes seamlessly combine flavors and ingredients from different culinary traditions, offering a fresh and exciting way to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
2. Culinary Learning Centre Workshops: Guests can participate in immersive cooking workshops at the resort’s Culinary Learning Centre, where Chef Cheung will share his unique techniques, philosophies, and insights. These workshops offer a hands-on approach to cooking, encouraging guests to embrace food as both art and nourishment.
3. Kids-Only Cooking Class: As part of the residency, Chef Cheung will also host a special kids-only cooking class, where children and teens can reimagine familiar dishes through playful experimentation. Inspired by Chef Cheung’s own experiences cooking with his son, this class aims to nurture confidence, curiosity, and self-expression in young cooks.

Why Is This Partnership Significant?

Chef Kelvin Cheung’s collaboration with JOALI BEING is particularly notable due to his innovative approach to cuisine, which is deeply rooted in personal narrative, memory, and cultural exchange. As an acclaimed chef with a global perspective, Chef Cheung’s work embodies the values of the Lunar New Year—renewal, togetherness, and joy.

The collaboration also highlights JOALI BEING’s commitment to offering guests more than just luxury stays. The resort’s philosophy of well-living is reflected in every aspect of this residency, from the carefully sourced ingredients to the mindful, sustainable culinary practices promoted by Chef Cheung. The partnership reinforces JOALI BEING’s reputation as a wellness-focused destination that celebrates cultural diversity and culinary creativity.

What Are the Key Themes of the Culinary Program?

The culinary program at JOALI BEING is designed to be both a gastronomic journey and an opportunity for personal connection. The focus on Third Culture cuisine allows guests to experience dishes that are not only delicious but also meaningful. Chef Cheung’s ability to blend diverse culinary traditions into harmonious creations provides a unique insight into food as a tool for cultural exchange and storytelling.

The residency is also part of JOALI BEING’s broader Lunar New Year celebrations, which include a variety of culinary and cultural activities aimed at honoring tradition while embracing new experiences. This includes hot pot gatherings, tea rituals, and celebratory dining moments, creating a holistic island-wide celebration that extends beyond just the dining table.

How Does This Connect to JOALI BEING’s Mission?

JOALI BEING’s commitment to well-being and sustainable practices aligns with Chef Cheung’s philosophy of creating balanced, intentional dishes that nourish both the body and the soul. As part of the residency, guests will be invited to explore how food can be a meaningful expression of creativity and joy, fostering connection, presence, and mindfulness. Chef Cheung’s approach to sustainability and thoughtful sourcing of ingredients complements JOALI BEING’s focus on promoting holistic health and well-being through mindful living.

Additionally, the “Smart Culinary” approach of JOALI BEING reflects the resort’s drive to offer guests unique experiences that promote health-conscious dining while showcasing the rich culinary traditions of the world. Chef Cheung’s residency fits perfectly into this ethos, helping to elevate the dining experience and deepen the connection between food and wellness.

What Else Does JOALI BEING Offer?

Beyond the culinary experiences, JOALI BEING provides a wide range of wellness-focused activities and offerings designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. The resort offers luxurious accommodations, a range of holistic therapies, and wellness retreats, making it the ideal destination for those seeking relaxation, renewal, and a deeper connection with themselves and their surroundings.

For families and groups traveling together, JOALI BEING’s Residence Escape Offer invites guests to experience unhurried living, focusing on meaningful rituals, shared moments, and quality time spent together. This offer provides a tailored experience that extends the festive spirit of the Lunar New Year throughout the entire stay.

Conclusion: A Culinary Journey Like No Other

The partnership between JOALI BEING and Chef Kelvin Cheung offers a truly unique experience for guests looking to celebrate the Lunar New Year in an unforgettable way. By blending Third Culture cuisine with wellness principles, this collaboration promises to create a rich and immersive culinary journey that reflects the values of tradition, renewal, and connection. Whether dining in the resort’s signature spaces or participating in interactive workshops, guests will have the chance to experience food not just as a necessity, but as a means of personal and cultural expression.

With its focus on sustainable practices, mindful dining, and deep cultural experiences, this residency is set to be a highlight of JOALI BEING’s offerings in 2026 and beyond, providing an enriching experience for food lovers and wellness seekers alike.

Original article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/