Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has once again been honored with the Award of Excellence for its outstanding wine program in Wine Spectator’s 2025 Restaurant Awards. This year, the recognition was awarded to the resort’s signature restaurant, Mar-Umi, celebrating its exceptional commitment to wine and dining excellence.

“We are incredibly honored to receive the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator for our Signature Restaurant Mar-Umi,” said Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives. “This accolade is a testament to our passionate team at Mar-Umi, who have meticulously curated a wine list that not only complements our Nikkei and South American cuisine, but also enhances every guest’s dining experience. We are proud to be recognized among the world’s best restaurants for wine for the second year in a row.” Mar-Umi, as its name suggests, is an ode to the flavoursome cultures of Peru and Japan, serving Nikkei and South American cuisine.

Under the guidance of Executive Chef Lalith Sharma and Ahmed Kamal (Chef Kimo), the chef de cuisine at Mar-Umi delivers the finest combination of South American cuisine for lunch and Nikkei cuisine for dinner.

The recent addition of Teppanyaki to the beachfront restaurant enhances the dining experience by offering not only delicious, exceptionally prepared food but also interactive culinary showmanship during lunch and dinner. Mar-Umi also features a variety of sake grades on its already impressive menu, enhancing the dining experience through expert pairings carefully curated by the resort’s Chief Sommelier, Samantha Kumara.