Mouthwatering images from the Japanese Themed Umami restaurant, at Lux* South Ari Atoll, as they hosted "Lux* Superchef 2017!". 11 chefs participated, including 2 pastry chefs, who were each given a black box containing 5 ingredients they must use, with the given instructions. Each chef was also given a list of other ingredients they may use from the resourceful kitchen as well.

The chefs were faced with the challenge to manage to plan, prepare and present a starter followed by a main course within 3.5 hours. Adding to that, each course had to be prepared in 4 plates; 1 for presentation and 3 for the judges. From the hot cold kitchen, the black box for the starter contained Salmon, Scallops, Samphire, Fennel, and Lardo di Colonato. For the main course, the chefs had to infuse Chicken and Root Vegetables along with Starch and a North African spice mix; Ras El Hanout! For the dessert, pastry chefs black box included Dark Chocolate, Orange, Raspberry, Caramel and Hazelnuts. However, they were allowed to use any ingredient for their bread.

Over the time, given plates were lined up and one was presented to 2 in house chef judges, overlooking the kitchen, keeping an eye out for hygiene and technical skills. The other 2 plates were presented to blindly to a team of Juries. The blind Jury team included of 6 respected members from the resort management and a guest staying at the resort. Each chef was awarded points out of a whopping 1200 points.

As the afternoon went down in a bit of rain and sun in the beautiful Umami, the 11 chefs were anxiously waiting for the results. Judging from the looks on the Juries faces, it was evident that the chefs gave off an excellent challenge to them. Nevertheless, the awarding ceremony started off and nothing but smiley faces emerged.

The ceremony started off with an introduction by Mr.Afeef, followed by words of encouragement from Executive Chef, Dave Minten. Each participant was given a cook book and a token of appreciation for participation. The gifts for the ceremony were contributed by the sponsors of the Super Chef. Sepia International, Fine foods International, SAFCO, Deli United, Fantasy, living water service, Cosmopolitan and Standard & Origin pvt ltd collaborated in sponsoring the event. Furthermore, the resort management offered a complimentary one night stay at LUX* for the winner.