Niyama Private Islands resort has launched the archipelago's first Japanese-Peruvian fusion menu at its distinctive underwater restaurant. Olivia Palamountain reports

The innovative tasting menu at Subsix, situated six metres below the Indian Ocean's surface at Niyama Private Islands resort, offers diners a unique culinary experience while surrounded by coral reefs and marine life through floor-to-ceiling glass walls.

Located half a kilometre out to sea, the underwater restaurant has been known for its novel dining experiences over the past decade, from champagne breakfasts to midnight glow parties. Now, it aims to elevate its offerings with a five-course Nikkei menu that showcases locally sourced seafood.

Executive chef Thierry Vergnault, whose background includes training at the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris, has crafted dishes that blend Japanese precision with Peruvian flavours. 
The menu features delicacies such as scallop ceviche balanced with tang and sea salt, locally caught wahoo tartare served with avocado and subtle spicing, and butter-soft cod paired with crisp asparagus.

"With a setting as extraordinary as Subsix, nothing less than an extraordinary menu will do," says Vergnault. "We take great pride in showcasing fresh, quality ingredients straight from the beautiful waters that surround us."To complement the menu, head sommelier Mayank Sharma has curated a selection of sake and fine wines. The restaurant's unique setting allows diners to observe sun-dappled corals, anemones, butterfly fish, and occasional reef sharks while enjoying their meal.

Subsix is one of nine dining venues at Niyama Private Islands under chef Vergnault's direction. The resort's other restaurants include Nest, which serves Asian cuisine in the treetops, Tribal, offering culinary exploration of South America and Africa in a jungle setting, and Edge, positioned over the water.
The five-course tasting menu is served daily between 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm, priced at US$250 per person. Due to limited seating, advance reservations are essential.