Exceptional culinary journeys are an integral part of every Aman cultural immersion with the vast array of spectacular dining experiences on offer across each of the 34 properties constantly evolving. Showcasing the very best seasonal and local ingredients and complementing the sanctuaries in which they reside, Aman’s new dining experiences for 2023 range from a sunrise breakfast in front of Bhutan’s Tiger’s Nest, to a three-day journey through Java’s culinary history and a farmer’s market tour in the heart of New York.
Amandari, Bali
As an ode to the region’s rich culinary culture, Amandari has collaborated with renowned Indonesian chef Petty Elliott to host The Balinese Table. From 1-2 July, in collaboration with Ubud Food Festival, Amandari will welcome the acclaimed chef and author to host a special culinary event.
A gastronomic celebration that spotlights Indonesia’s diverse culture, Amandari will offer a cooking class at the Lotus Pond, followed by lunch, before continuing to the Library, to discover The Indonesian Table, the newly released book by Chef Petty. In the evening, enjoy Balinese dancing and gamelan performances, followed by a Balinese family-style dinner at The Restaurant. The next day, relax at Amandari, before a final celebratory four-course dinner.
Amankila, Bali
For those seeking a gastronomic escape, Amankila has created a Cook the Island series, combining two-nights’ accommodation and roundtrip transfers with daily culinary experiences, on selected dates over the coming months.
Led by international guest chefs, the events are designed to highlight the very best of Bali’s seasonal local produce. The latest iteration, from 18-20 August, delivers an exceptional culinary journey with guest chef Laurie Gear, of the one Michelin-starred restaurant, Artichoke, in the UK. From cooking classes and dinner at the Harvest Table, to welcome cocktails, fireside canapés and a Four Hands Dinner, co-hosted by Amankila’s Head Chef, each event delivers gastronomic discovery. Later this year the series will be hosted by Chef Tam Chudaree of one Michelin-starred Baan Tepa Culinary Space (Bangkok) and Chef Angel Zapata of one Michelin-starred Barrafina (London), in September and November, respectively.
Amanjiwo, Java
As a result of the ongoing success of the Culinary Expedition to Java series, Amanjiwo proudly presents its next evolution with the fourth culinary expedition from 30 August – 1 September 2023.
Hosted by acclaimed Chef Mandif Warokka, owner of fine-dining restaurant, Blanco par Mandif,Ubud, and guest judge on MasterChef Indonesia, alongside Amanjiwo’s Executive Chef, Reza Kurniawan, will guide a three-day journey to explore Java’s history and culture through a series of elegant dining experiences. The itinerary includes a welcome dinner preceded by Javanese dancing and a gamelan performance and a traditional Javanese breakfast by the beautiful Progo River, served on bamboo mats, pillows and low tables. A gala dinner against the backdrop of the majestic Borobudur Temple is a highlight of the experience in addition to breakfast on the final day served at Amanjiwo’s Gubuk Sawah Garden, overlooking rice paddies and majestic volcano peaks.
Amanpulo, Philippines
To celebrate Amanpulo’s 30th anniversary, the resort has launched new dining offerings that pay tribute to Filipino cuisine, exquisite fine dining and the island’s thriving organic farm. The newest addition to Amanpulo’s organic farm is the Spice Table. In the heart of the resort’s kitchen garden, the eight-person chef’s table – handcrafted by the property’s artisans – provides the opportunity to learn about all the freshly grown produce on the island, including the 12 native chilli plants that are used in the various kitchens around the resort.
Also new for 2023, the resort’s convivial Clubhouse, embarks on a culinary expedition across the Philippines, with a monthly seven-course tasting menu, from May until December, featuring dishes distinct to the country’s different provinces and regions. The experience includes a taste of Pampanga in June, Mountain Province in July, Bicol in August, Bacolod in September, Cebu in October, Zamboanga in November, and the waters of Palawan in December. Alternatively, for exquisite Japanese cuisine, paying homage to the country’s culinary traditions, head to the Lagoon Club, where an island omakase dining experience takes place this year, as part of the anniversary celebrations.
Amankora, Bhutan
Nestled in the foothills, where pilgrims begin their journeys in the shadows of the iconic Tiger’s Nest, Amankora’s new log cabin provides a breathtaking prelude or a cosy finale for hikes up to the legendary monastery. Accessible via a hidden path, just moments from the main hiking trail, the quaint cabin is surrounded by a verdant pine forest which opens onto tranquil lawns and sweeping vistas of the cliffside monastery structures. Leave Paro Lodge before the break of dawn and experience a sunrise breakfast as the Himalayan sun slowly illuminates The Tiger’s Nest or opt for a restorative lunch with a refreshing drink and relaxing 30-minute foot massage to soothe tired limbs, followed by a sumptuous lunch in full view of the Tiger’s Nest.
For a breathtaking culinary experience, up to 30 guests can enjoy a Forest & Fortress Lunch or Dinner during their stay at Amankora Paro. Set amidst a forest and overlooking the historic Drukgyel Dzong fortress, tables are set in a lush clearing with the choice of dining beneath the stars or under a traditional Bhutanese ceremonial tent, lit with stringed lights and flickering lanterns, and accompanied by local music. A traditional dance performance or musical troupe can be arranged with Amankora signature cocktails and canapés whilst enjoying dinner prepared by the in-house chef.
Amantaka, Laos
From Afternoon Tea in the sun-drenched Library, to cooking classes with Amantaka’s executive chef, celebrate Laos’ authentic culinary traditions. Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of the country, with the Lao Royal Court Cuisine Experience. Under the guidance of expert local chefs, discover the flavours and techniques of the country’s traditional cuisine. This one-of-a-kind dining experience features hand-selected ingredients and recipes passed down through generations of the Lao court, such as a Koi Pai, a Mekong River fish salad or Sai Our Moo Kup Kai Pen, grilled pork sausage filled with chopped lemongrass, galangal and kaffir lime.
New this year, enjoy Breakfast at Kuang Si Waterfall which is served picnic style in this exceptional setting, for a truly memorable dining experience. Another new addition is Amantaka’s Private Laotian Barbecue under the stars. Offering traditional cuisine, infused with aromatic herbs from Amantaka’s organic farm, and accompanied by local entertainment, the experience promises to be an unforgettable feast to fall under the timeless spell of Luang Prabang.
Amansara, Cambodia
Embark on an extraordinary culinary journey aboard Amanbala, Amansara’s beautifully renovated local motorboat, to traverse Tonle Sap Lake. A rare experience to savour the magic of Cambodia’s captivating landscape, while indulging in a range of delectable dishes, embark on a sunrise cruise accompanied by a light breakfast, or a lunch or brunch cruise, with menus showcasing the finest local ingredients. From fragrant curries to grilled seafood, each bite is a celebration of Cambodian cuisine at its best. As the day draws to a close, embark on a sunset cruise, with a glass of fine wine or a handcrafted cocktail, accompanied by a selection of gourmet snacks, for an opportunity to watch the captivating colours of the setting sun reflected on the tranquil waters of Tonle Sap Lake.
Amanoi, Vietnam
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Amanoi, Vinh Hy Bay, will host an Arva pop-up restaurant from 8-17 August at the resort’s Beach Club. In collaboration with Amanyangyun’s Executive Chef, Nicola Frizzale, this exclusive partnership welcomes Aman’s Italian dining concept to the shores of Vietnam and will serve dinner daily (excluding Fridays.)
New this summer, Amanoi’s Beach Club has opened a Japanese Pop-Up Kitchen. Hosted by Sushi Chef Giuseppe Fulgente, travelling to Vietnam from Courchevel’s Aman Le Melezin, indulge in exquisitely crafted dishes, from motoyaki oysters to grade nine wagyu beef accompanied by spinach goma and teriyaki shitake mushrooms. This dinner offering runs every Friday until the end of August. For a more intimate setting, opt for a Private Japanese dinner at Rock Studio, available for 2-10 guests. The dinner features a set menu, with dishes such as Wagyu Tataki with Truffle Ponzu, and Kushiyaki with a Sweet Soy Glaze and Perilla Salad, all set in a private venue overlooking the bay.
To take advantage of Amanoi’s breathtaking location, enjoy an unforgettable evening watching the sun set over the bay from the charming Twilight Cliff Lounge. Cruise to the far coast, where the lounge is located, and dine on Champagne and tapas surrounded by the dramatic cliffs and outstanding natural landscape.
Amanpuri, Thailand
Reopening on 1 September following its annual seasonal closure, Amanpuri, Phuket, has introduced a new Ocean Platform Dining Experience floating on the serene waters of the Andaman Sea. With the ocean as an infinite backdrop and the sun slowly dipping below the horizon, indulge on canapes and Champagne – perfect for celebrating a special occasion, or simply to make memories.
Aman New York, USA
Having brought new depth to Manhattan’s exceptional dining scene, with the launch of Aman’s signature restaurants Arva and Nama, Aman New York introduces new culinary journeys for 2023. Feel enchanted by the energy of market day, with a stroll to non-profit GrownNYC’s Union Square Greenmarket led by the hotel’s Executive Chef of Arva, Dario Ossola. Once back from the market stroll, and in the calm oasis of Aman New York, Chef Dario will prepare a personalised menu using the ingredients sourced at the market.
Alternatively, trade the city that never sleeps for alluring Venice, through a Pasta Masterclass with Chef Dario, previously at the helm at Aman Venice, to create heart-warming pasta dishes, followed by a tasting at Arva’s counter. For something further afield, travel to Tokyo with Takuma Yonemaru, Chef de Cuisine of Nama, to try a Sushi Masterclass and learn the art of sushi, sashimi and maki roll making. Afterwards, savour each delicious creation at the restaurant’s traditional Hinoki wood counter.
Amanera, Dominican Republic
Commencing from 24-27 November, Amanera, a tranquil clifftop retreat, will host a three-day celebration of the island’s rich culinary heritage for both guests and non-residents. The weekend will see the resort’s Executive Chef Cesar Landeo partner with award-winning guest mixologist Valentino Longo to showcase the destination’s finest ingredients.
Whilst Chef Landeo provides delectable fare throughout, Valentino, Bombay Sapphire’s ‘Most Imaginative Bartender 2020’ and the founder of the renowned Shōshin Art Club in Miami, will create exquisite cocktails using local ingredients, to accompany each culinary offering. In partnership with Oliver & Oliver, the premium Dominican rum distillery, Amanera will host cocktail and canapé reception on the first night held on the hotel’s sunset platform with a DJ providing enthralling live music throughout the evening. On night two, following sundowner cocktails at the Lounge Bar, savour a tasting menu with rum pairings celebrating the region’s incredible produce. The final evening offers a relaxed dinner of local fare at the Beach Club served under the stars.
Amanruya, Turkey
This summer season, Amanruya offers a new Wine Pairing Dinner Series during select dates from 31 May until 28 June as well as a Seven Region Dining Experience running from 6 July until 17 August. The Wine Pairing Dinner Series, in collaboration with five Turkish vineyards, allows up to 14 guests and non-residents to taste exquisite and varied gastronomy in six refined courses, accompanied by a perfectly paired local wine. New Executive Chef, Omer Ozkan Cam, presents dishes ranging from Smoked Firik Eisotto with Beef Cheek to sweet treats such as Smashed Cheesecake with Lime Tuille and Honey Almond Ice Cream. Continuing the culinary journey across Turkey, the Seven Region Dining Experience includes seven exclusive dinners each highlighting the very best cuisine of a unique region. The tasting menu will feature authentic ingredients and traditional dishes from the chosen area.
Aman Venice, Italy
This year, Chef Norbert visits Aman Venice to host a series of exquisite fine dining experience on 15 June, 20 July, 24 August, 28 September and 26 October. An Evening with Chef Norbert at Aman Venice delivers an exclusive gourmet tasting menu centred around the property’s Cook the Lagoon fine-dining concept; a philosophy paying homage to locally sourced produce. Dishes include Nettle Cappelletti Pasta with Seaweed and Mushroom Broth, created using the finest local ingredients, meanwhile, an expert sommelier will perfectly pair every dish with an award-winning wine.
Amanzoe, Greece
A destination in itself, on a secluded peninsula in the Peloponnese, Amanzoe’s serene Beach Club is now open for dinner three nights per week, serving a pop-up Arva menu. Usually available for lunch-only, this season the restaurant’s inaugural coastal dining experience takes place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings with dishes drawing on Arva’s italian culinary heritage – seasonal, locally sourced and perfect for sharing.
Diversifying the culinary offering at the resort’s main pool, there is now the option to choose dishes from the Japanese inspired Nama menu in a new, laidback setting complete with comfortable lounge seating. Classic and locally inspired drinks are complemented by freshly made sushi and small Japanese sharing plates such as Tori Karaage and Crispy Prawn Rolls.
This season also sees the introduction of guest chefs hosting exclusive multi-course dinners at the resort’s its Library First to take the helm is Michelin starred chef Pascal Aussignac, who brings his skills in french cookery to Amanzoe on 29 and 30 August. Limited to just 30 guests each evening, the five-course menu will include dishes such as Honeycomb, Camembert and Vanilla Emulsion, and Red-Hot Chili Berries, with wine pairing also available.
Finally, new cooking classes with a private chef are available throughout the season offering insight into the resort’s culinary landscape with a choice of three unique sessions. The first includes a chef-led visit to nearby Ermioni Market to source fresh, seasonal ingredients before developing recipes using each guest’s unique selection. The second spotlights Amanzoe’s favourite traditional Greek dishes – from hearty Lamb Moussaka to deliciously light Pistachio and Honey Loukoumades, and the third takes place overlooking the resort’s gardens, with fresh pizzas and pastas made in the outdoor wood-oven.
