Patina Maldives, Fari Islands is pleased to announce the appointment of Beñat Alonso as Director of Culinary. With more than two decades of international experience — including leadership roles at Michelin-starred restaurants and landmark luxury hotels — Alonso will oversee the resort’s diverse gastronomic portfolio of 13 distinct dining concepts, in-villa dining, and its sustainable farming initiatives.
The appointment marks a new chapter in the resort’s culinary journey.
“Beñat’s passion, global expertise, and respect for the environment make him the ideal leader for our culinary program,” commented Anthony Gill, General Manager of Patina Maldives, Fari Islands.
“Under his direction, we’re confident Patina Maldives will continue to raise the bar for conscious elevated dining in the Maldives and beyond,” added him.
Hailing from Spain’s Basque Country – a region celebrated for its deep-rooted culinary traditions, exceptional produce, and respect for nature – Alonso trained under luminaries such as Martín Berasategui and honed his craft at revered establishments including Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Restaurant Martin Wishart, and Pierre Koffmann.
His career has taken him from the United Kingdom and Australia to Southeast Asia, and most recently to pre-opening leadership positions at Raffles Europejski Warsaw and Four Seasons Egypt.
Guided by his philosophy of thought, quality, and simplicity, Alonso aims to bring a mindful culinary approach to Patina Maldives.
The resort’s gastronomic landscape – one of the most diverse in the Maldives – ranges from the refined Japanese-Nordic artistry of KOEN and the plant-forward elegance of ROOTS to the Mediterranean warmth of Helios. Each venue offers a distinctive expression of flavor, culture, and craft.
Under Alonso’s leadership, the resort will also further develop its organic garden – a living pantry that supplies seasonal produce for many of its menus – reinforcing Patina’s commitment to sustainability and local sourcing.
“Sustainability, ingredients, flavors – they all go hand in hand. At Patina, we’re not just creating exceptional cuisine. We’re crafting experiences that are thoughtful, rooted in nature, and shaped by our surroundings,” said Alonso.