Sun Siyam Vilu Reef Showcases the Soul of Maldivian Cuisine Through Its Signature “Kandu Kukulhu” Cooking Experience
At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, Maldivian cuisine is celebrated not merely as food, but as a reflection of the islands’ heritage and identity. Among its most meaningful traditions is the preparation of Kandu Kukulhu, the Maldives’ iconic rolled tuna curry.
Rooted in local custom and passed down through generations, this cherished dish forms the heart of Vilu Reef’s weekly Maldivian cooking classes, offering guests an intimate introduction to the flavours, techniques, and stories that define the archipelago. As part of the resort’s signature culinary journey, it brings the Maldivian spirit to life through authentic tastes and thoughtful storytelling.
Deeply tied to tradition, Kandu Kukulhu represents centuries of culinary craft. At Vilu Reef, the experience is led by the resort’s Maldivian chefs, who demonstrate each step with the precision and intuition inherited from their ancestors. Guests learn how to artfully slice fresh tuna, layer it with aromatic spices, and bind the rolls with coconut or pandan leaf. As the curry simmers slowly in coconut milk, its rich aroma fills the air, offering a vivid glimpse into everyday island cooking—an experience that stays with participants long after the final tasting.
Kandu Kukulhu, which translates to “chicken of the sea,” is a beloved Maldivian tuna curry and a powerful tribute to the Maldives’ deep connection to the ocean.
“Sun Siyam Vilu Reef’s culinary story celebrates Maldivian heritage, moving beyond simply serving fresh seafood,” says Chef de Cuisine Mohamed Hameed, known as Chef Printey. “It is a connection to our islands, our people, and the traditions that shaped Maldivian cuisine. By sharing these methods, we bring our cultural narrative to life in the most sincere way.”
The cooking class is an integral part of the Maldivian Roots Signature Experience, which showcases the flavours, crafts, and cultural expressions that define the Maldives. It reflects Sun Siyam’s philosophy of celebrating island life through meaningful encounters and the genuine Maldivian spirit. The experience is available to all guests at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef and can be booked in advance during their stay.
For more information or to explore promotional offers, guests are encouraged to visit the Sun Siyam Vilu Reef website.
Source: visitmaldives.com, retrieved 07 December 2025