VARU by Atmosphere continues to set the benchmark for modern Maldivian hospitality with the launch of two new overwater dining venues: Teppanyaki Over Water and Cellar at NÜ. Favoured by Indian travellers and couples seeking a mix of romance, relaxation, and refined cuisine, the resort is expanding its culinary offerings while staying true to its “Naturally Maldivian” ethos.

“At VARU, our cuisine, design, and service are intuitive and thoughtfully curated. With Teppanyaki Over Water and Cellar at NÜ, we have created dining journeys that are both enriching and true to the island’s generous spirit – giving our guests new reasons to return, season after season,” said Maurice Van Den Bosch, General Manager, VARU by Atmosphere.

Teppanyaki Over Water brings Japanese culinary artistry to the lagoon, offering guests a lively experience over the water. Premium seafood, A5 Wagyu, and fresh sushi are prepared with skill and flair right at the table. Lantern-lit open-air seating, along with sake cocktails, adds to the immersive dining vibe, blending Japanese tradition with a Maldivian touch.

As twilight descends, Cellar at NÜ invites guests into a sophisticated overwater wine lounge. The space is perfect for intimate evenings, pairing rare vintages and bold New World wines with artisanal chocolate, cheese, and charcuterie. The highlight is a six-course Royal Wine Pairing Dinner, turning every meal into an elegant exploration of taste and technique.

Located in the North Malé Atoll, VARU by Atmosphere has earned international acclaim, ranking in the top 1% of Tripadvisor listings worldwide in the Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2025. With these new overwater experiences, the resort promises guests elevated culinary journeys that combine sophistication, creativity, and island soul.

About Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts
Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts is a collection of distinctive properties inspired by local culture and unique environments. From private islands to city escapes, the portfolio offers bespoke luxury experiences, reflecting the spirit of each destination. With over 16 properties across Asia, Europe, and the Indian subcontinent, the brand focuses on authenticity, elegance, and meaningful guest experiences.

About Atmosphere Core
Atmosphere Core is a leading hospitality name in South Asia, partnering globally while expanding across Asia and Europe. Its ethos, Joy of Giving, ensures a strong connection with local culture and people. The portfolio includes resorts under THE OZEN COLLECTION, COLOURS OF OBLU, and Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, offering curated experiences that combine luxury with sustainability.

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach opened its festive season with its much-awaited annual cake-mixing ceremony, creating a lively afternoon filled with joy, high tea, and seaside celebrations. Held by the poolside, the event brought together guests, families, and culinary enthusiasts for a cherished pre-Christmas ritual that leads into the upcoming Tree Lighting Ceremony and New Year’s Eve festivities.

Set against the scenic backdrop of the sea, the celebration reflected the warm spirit of the season, showcased through the hotel’s popular F&B outlets, The Square, Gadda Da Vida, Sampan, Bageecha, and Péché Mignon. Guests joined hands with the hotel’s culinary team for the traditional cake-mixing ritual, symbolising community, togetherness, and the joy of giving.

The afternoon continued with an elegant seaside high tea featuring a curated selection of savoury bites, sweet treats, and refreshing beverages. The atmosphere carried the perfect blend of warmth and celebration, truly capturing the festive essence of Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach.

Kunal Shanker, General Manager, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, shared, “Our annual cake-mixing ceremony is a celebration of togetherness and marks the beginning of our festive preparations. It is always heartening to see families, friends, and even first-time participants join hands in this joyous ritual, sharing laughter and creating memories. As these ingredients mature over the coming weeks, they will carry with them the warmth, camaraderie, and festive spirit that define this special time of the year.”

As the ceremony progressed, guests donned chef’s caps, aprons, and gloves, preparing to mix an aromatic blend of premium ingredients such as sultanas, candied ginger, macerated dates, crystallised fruit, and hand-picked nuts. These ingredients were combined with fine spirits to begin the months-long maturation process essential for the hotel’s signature Christmas offerings.

The lively ambience, enhanced by festive melodies and the soothing seaside backdrop, created a memorable experience for every participant. Families and friends came together to enjoy this unique tradition, marking the joyful beginning of the holiday season at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach.

Hilton Mumbai International Airport welcomed the festive season with a lively Cake-Mixing Ceremony followed by the hotel’s signature Sunday Brunch. The celebration marked the beginning of the hotel’s festive calendar and brought together media, influencers, key clients, and Hilton Honors members.

Guests took part in the traditional cake-mixing ritual, blending dry fruits, spices, and festive flavours that set the tone for the hotel’s Christmas preparations. The afternoon continued with an indulgent brunch featuring global cuisines, live stations, festive-inspired dishes, and artisanal desserts.

The hotel announced that this was only the start of its festive offerings. Guests can look forward to exclusive staycation and holiday packages, Nikkei Table, a Peruvian culinary experience hosted by Chef Vishag, and a special showcase celebrating the culture of Bengal curated by Chef Ananya Banerjee. The season will also include a Christmas Eve Dinner with classic holiday favourites, a grand Christmas Day Brunch for families, and the Big Bang New Year’s Eve Celebration featuring music, gourmet food, and memorable experiences.

Hilton Mumbai International Airport is set to create a festive season filled with culture, creativity, and unique culinary journeys, bringing a blend of tradition and innovation to its guests. More festive experiences will be announced through December and into the New Year.