Welcomes Elly Smart for an Exclusive Culinary Collaboration this November

London, UK, 20 October 2025: This 14 and 16 November, Nova Maldives will host an inspiring two-day celebration of plant-based dining and island creativity, in collaboration with British plant-based culinary creator and author Elly Smart.

Elly is celebrated for her creativity, transforming classic and comforting recipes into plant-based dishes - from everyday well-loved foods to decadent creations for special occasions. She will join Nova’s award-winning Executive Chef Sobah Hassan for a unique culinary collaboration that brings together the best of Maldivian culinary tradition and modern plant-based innovation for A Soulful Plant-Based Celebration with Elly Smart.

Guests are invited to experience An Evening with Elly, an intimate dinner beneath the stars celebrating creativity, connection, and plant-based cooking, using the flavours of the Maldives. The menu will spotlight a regional twist on Elly’s award-winning Tofu Meatballs, using locally-sourced ingredients. The evening begins and ends with a Maldivian-inspired entrée and dessert, with nods to the islands’ culinary heritage. Elly will personally introduce each dish, sharing the inspiration, techniques, and stories behind them.

The second event offers Cooking with Elly at Soul Kitchen, an intimate cooking demonstration where guests can experience Elly’s creativity up close as she brings her iconic tofu dish to life. This intimate demonstration invites participants to ​ taste and explore Elly’s approach to plant-based cooking, reflecting Nova’s philosophy of soulful island living - mindful, creative and full of heart.

Both experiences are designed to delight the palate and bring guests together, reflecting Nova’s unique focus on community. Bringing together British culinary artistry and Maldivian authentic cuisine, this special, two-day collaboration is an invitation to slow down, share good food, and experience the spirit of Nova.

“We’re delighted to welcome Chef Elly Smart to Nova for this exciting culinary collaboration,” says Abdulla Aboobakuru, General Manager of Nova Maldives. “Plant-based dining resonates deeply with many of our guests — not only for its health benefits, but also for its environmental and ethical significance. Maldivian cuisine has long reflected the ingenuity of remote island living, shaped by limited access to imported goods and a deep reliance on what nature provides. Traditionally, islanders have crafted dishes from ingredients such as coconut, rice, tropical fruits, and root vegetables — creating a cuisine that is naturally light, plant-forward, and rooted in sustainability. At Nova, we’re proud to celebrate this legacy through innovative plant-based cuisine that is as flavourful as it is creative, perfectly aligning with our core values of wellness, sustainability, and progressive living.”

Event Details:

An Evening with Elly – 14 November 2025 | USD 120++ per person;

Cooking with Elly at Soul Kitchen – 16 November 2025 | USD 55++ per person.

More information and bookings for the limited spots can be found here. Discover more about Nova Maldives via the website here.

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About Nova Maldives

Nova Maldives, the soulful island resort nestled in the South Ari Atoll, believes in a greater calling than simply a lifestyle holiday destination. A modern All-Inclusive Community Concept, this laidback, all-natural island offers countless ways to spark joy. Smart, playful, rooted and responsible, Nova embodies the very essence of the Pulse Hotels & Resorts brand. Reached by a scenic seaplane flight, Nova features 76 land and overwater villas with private terraces and seemingly endless Indian Ocean views, all designed for real connection. Nourish the soul with good food and great company in the vibrant dining outlets, pool and communal spaces. Explore the dazzling rainbow world of coral and sea life, play beach volleyball or immerse yourself in the local art and culture. At Nova, it’s all about taking the time to do what makes your soul happy.