The blissfully tropical Maldivian resort, Atmosphere Kanifushi recently unveiled a new overwater bar, poetically named the Lantern Bar, the Asian fusion bar is located on the southern side of Kanifushi island, perched over a crystal-clear aquamarine lagoon, just like a lantern illuminating the ocean waters. 

An extension to the award-winning restaurant, Just Veg, this charming new outlet is all about slowing down, experiencing glorious sunset hues, and easing into the night in the lantern-lit ambiance as the stars come up in the night sky. 

Guests can savour flavourful vegetarian platters that reimagine iconic Asian dishes with an artistic flair. Picture spring rolls and kebabs, crostini and falafels, all served with handmade dips and sides. Complementing the dishes are a collection of ‘Elixirs’ – delicious, healing mocktails prepared by an Ayurvedic doctor that not just woo the taste buds but also leave the body nourished and rejuvenated. Elements from nature like hibiscus and aloe vera blend with classic mixers to create magic in a glass, and beyond.

The name Lantern Bar is inspired by the symbolism of light as pure, optimistic, triumphant, and even divine. Light and dark, sunrise and sunset, the eternal phases of life are perceived as a harmonious totality in many East Asian cultures. In a far-off island such as Atmosphere Kanifushi, one comes even closer to such natural rhythms.

From the logo and décor to the menu – there’s a subtle ode to lanterns and lights throughout the experience. Take for instance the fascinating mural framing the bar counter that depicts a local scene half in paint and the other half in metal, representing the duality of light and dark.

Lantern Bar serves a Sampler Platter Menu from 5pm to 8pm. And, from 8pm to 10.30pm, guests can enjoy the dinner menu from Just Veg, a specialty restaurant with contemporary, plant-based cuisine with recipes from Arabic, Indian, and Mediterranean regions.

Mei P. Pun, the General Manager of Atmosphere Kanifushi, says, I am thrilled to announce the opening of the Lantern Bar that marks yet another exciting landmark in Kanifushi’s charming history. We are passionate about offering holistic health and Food & Beverage concepts that that fills our guests with joy and I cannot wait for them to experience this first hand. 

An exhilarating 35-minute Sea Plane ride from Malé International Airport brings guests to Atmosphere Kanifushi, located off the beaten track at a secluded edge of the Lhaviyani Atoll. The resort offers 7 villas categories with 132 detached sunset bungalows and 40 overwater villas offering complete privacy. With the premium holiday plan, Kanifushi PlanTM guests enjoy a hassle-free, blissfully tropical island experience with dine-around and unlimited spirits and beverages, ocean excursions, snorkelling, daily activities, and entertainment all blended with the stay.