Fantastic restaurant emerging like a sea creature in the Maldives

Based in the Netherlands and known for its innovative designs, Nomadic Resorts’ Atelier Nomadic has conceived the stilt restaurant and bar, Yakitori. Located in the North Malé atoll of Kaafu, in the Maldives, this unique dining experience pays homage to the mystical stories of sea creatures that have captivated the human imagination for centuries.

Located above the water in the North Malé Atoll in Kaafu, Maldives, the Yakitori restaurant and bar is designed by Nomadic Resorts’ Atelier Nomadic, who reorganized the existing jetty structure of the Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru resort, creating a new panoramic dining experience. Inspired by the pink stingrays that roam the adjacent lagoon, the naturally ventilated bioclimatic construction features a saltwater infinity pool and catamaran nets on stilts where guests can relax while admiring the sunsets. With a roof made entirely of bamboo by Asali Bali, Yakitori is composed of a series of hyperbolic paraboloid roof columns and trusses, reflecting the endoskeleton of the Mobulidae family of stingrays. Its design is further amplified by the dramatic Maldivian landscape projecting a captivating reflection in the mirror-like lagoon, with its shingled tail curling downwards. Named Madi Hiyaa, the building is also inspired by the Dhivehi language, where Madi symbolizes the ray and Hiyaa the shelter, in homage to the graceful rays that migrate across the Indian Ocean. Principal architect Olav Bruin opts for bamboo as the primary building material, proving its potential as a renewable resource and effective carbon sink. Dendrocalamus Asper bamboo forms the main composition, while the smaller Gigantochloa Apus fills the grid. The elegant interior features a bar and service blocks clad in black Gigantochloa Atroviolacea bamboo, contrasting subtly with pale bamboo columns and wooden decks. This graceful design reflects the rhythmic patterns of ocean waves, creating a sensory dining experience. Madi Hiyaa joins the esteemed family of stingray-inspired structures developed by Nomadic Resorts, demonstrating their commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable architecture. From the Pacific coast of Mexico to the Gulf of Siam, these bamboo stingrays testify to the harmonious coexistence of innovative design and environmental responsibility.