Niyama Private Islands Maldives reopens its highly acclaimed Asian restaurant, Nest, offering a reimagined jungle dining experience infused with bold new flavours. Nest, nestled deep within the heart of the island of Play, presents an extraordinary blend of Asian fine dining against wild, indigenous flora. This unique dining destination envelops guests in surreal surroundings, transporting them to a world where culinary excellence meets the untamed wilderness.
Nest: Where Jungle Dining Begins
A Walk Amongst Nature
The adventure at Nest commences with a stroll along a meandering boardwalk, surrounded by the lush overgrowth of jungle vines. As you venture deeper into the island’s heart, the magic of the Nest gradually unfolds.
The Canopy Beneath a Banyan Tree
Under the sprawling canopy of a banyan tree that has thrived for decades, the true essence of the Nest is revealed. Here, on the ground floor, tribal thatched-roof huts take centre stage, focusing on the showcase teppanyaki, where fiery and tantalizing flavours await to delight your palate.
Elevated Dining
Alternatively, guests can ascend the spiral staircase, cross the suspended bridge, and arrive at their dining platform, suspended six meters above the jungle floor. This elevated vantage point offers a whole new perspective on the lush surroundings.
The Evolution of Nest’s Design
A Vision Realized
The original design of Nest, conceived in 2013 by Poole Associates and landscape architect Drew Anderson of TOPO Design, envisioned a multi-level treehouse connected by a labyrinth of wooden walkways and bridges, seamlessly merging with the natural surroundings.
A Decade of Refinement
After a decade of operation, Niyama Private Islands Maldives has unveiled an enhanced setting with denser and more dramatic landscaping. Chief engineer Michael Selvin has meticulously crafted this transformation to ensure every table is more fully immersed in nature and exclusivity. As night falls, the trees come alive with hundreds of lights, casting a bewitching glow reminiscent of the neon-lit streets of Saigon, Tokyo, or Bangkok.

Culinary Delights at Nest
An Avant-Garde Menu
Nest’s reimagined experience extends to its culinary offerings, helmed by the new Executive Chef Thierry Vergnault. The menu features avant-garde delights that include the wagyu and sea urchin tataki from Japan, sizzling bo lok lak from Vietnam, and chilli reef lobster from local waters in Singapore.
A Fusion of Innovation
Chef Thierry’s creations are a testament to his relentless pursuit of novelty and intrigue. He combines the freshest, high-quality ingredients with unexpected culinary techniques and innovations that ignite the senses. The elusive Asian herbs and spices used in his dishes are sourced from the island’s garden, which also inspires an experimental cocktail list crafted by consultant Mathew Atkinson of Bruff Drinks.
The Invitation to Adventure
“We are thrilled to unveil the new Nest,” declares Hafidh Al Busaidy, the General Manager of Niyama Private Islands Maldives. “The reimagined concept, coupled with Chef Thierry Vergnault’s culinary brilliance, promises to elevate our guest experience to another level. We invite adventurers worldwide to come and experience the magic of Nest for themselves.”
Nest’s Operating Hours
Nest is open daily to cater to your dining desires:
- Teppanyaki Lunch: 12.00 noon – 2.30 pm
- Teppanyaki Dinner: 4.30 pm – 8.30 pm
- A La Carte Dinner: 6.30 pm – 10.30 pm

Conclusion
Nest at Niyama Private Islands Maldives is not just a restaurant; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of the jungle, where culinary excellence meets the untamed beauty of nature. With its bold flavours, stunning design, and avant-garde menu, Nest promises an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you enchanted and eager to return for more. Embrace the adventure, and let Nest transport you to a world of culinary magic amid the jungle’s embrace.
Contact – +960 664 4111
