Male’, Maldives – 09th February 2026 –
This April, the pristine shores of the Maldives will welcome a true culinary luminary. Michelin-starred chef Glynn Purnell, affectionately known as “The Yummy Brummie,” joins the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort for the 2026 Tastemaker Series, bringing his bold, modern British cuisine to the Indian Ocean.
From April 3 to 6, guests will have the exclusive opportunity to experience Purnell’s confident, ingredient-driven approach through a curated programme of immersive culinary events. Highlights include a signature tasting dinner, an intimate hands-on cooking class, and a finale experience at the resort’s iconic Whale Bar, designed to offer guests a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the chef’s craft.
Purnell’s remarkable journey began at just 14 with a hotel kitchen placement, followed by formative experiences at the Metropole Hotel and the renowned Simpson’s Restaurant, where he contributed to securing a Michelin star. His training spans Europe’s most esteemed kitchens, alongside leading figures such as Gordon Ramsay, Gary Rhodes, and Claude Bosi. Rising to prominence in Birmingham, Purnell made history by earning the city’s first Michelin star for Jessica’s in 2005, followed by a second for Purnell’s, which he continues to maintain today.
A familiar face on British television, Purnell is a two-time winner of Great British Menu, later returning as a mentor, and has appeared on shows including Saturday Kitchen and My Kitchen Rules UK. Renowned for blending technical precision with warmth and personality, Purnell’s philosophy of using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients aligns seamlessly with St. Regis Maldives’ commitment to thoughtful luxury and culinary excellence.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Vommuli Island, the residency is more than a culinary showcase—it is a celebration of storytelling, creativity, and meaningful guest experiences. From overwater dining to serene tropical gardens, the resort provides an unforgettable stage for this extraordinary British chef to share his craft.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, opened in 2016, is a secluded sanctuary in the Dhaalu Atoll, just 45 minutes from Malé by seaplane. The resort’s architecture, inspired by its natural surroundings, includes manta ray-shaped lagoon villas, a whale shark-inspired signature bar, a lobster-shaped spa, and a spiral-shell library. Guests can indulge in seven distinct dining venues, including Asian specialty restaurants, an international restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients, and a signature overwater bar offering spectacular sunset views. The Iridium Spa and Blue Hole pool offer holistic wellness experiences, rounding out a stay that embodies luxury and tranquility.
For discerning travelers, Glynn Purnell’s residency at St. Regis Maldives represents a rare convergence of world-class gastronomy and extraordinary destination luxury—an experience not to be missed.
