Fiji Sun

The Soul of Taste at Malhana Cloud Kitchen

- Facebook: @Malhana Cloud Kitchen Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj

Picture yourself meandering down Koronivia Road, where the air is thick with the scent of the Rewa delta and the promise of something delicious cooking nearby.

Right there, amidst the lush greenery, sits a place that feels like a warm embrace from home.

That’s Malhana Cloud Kitchen for you—a hidden culinary jewel that’s more than just a place to eat.

It’s where dreams take shape, where love for food meets dedication, and where our Fijian heritage shines through every dish.

It’s not just a restaurant—it’s a piece of our community, a story of resilience, and a showcase of the flavours that makes Fiji so special.

Meet Joseph Inoke Deo, the visionary behind Malhana’s journey.

His story is one of unexpected twists and turns yet bound by an unwavering love for food.

“It was always my dream to become a pastry chef and own a restaurant,” he said, reminiscin­g about his culinary aspiration­s.

Fate had other plans, leading him to cross paths with a partner whose culinary prowess ignited a new dream—Malhana Sweets, and later, Malhana Cloud Kitchen.

What sets Malhana apart isn’t just its delectable offerings but its commitment to authentici­ty.

Mr Deo and his team have made it their mission to reintroduc­e Fiji’s rich culinary heritage to the dining table, one dish at a time. “We bring back our local authentic food and adopt a farm-to-table approach,” Mr Inoke Deo explained, emphasisin­g the importance of reducing reliance on imported goods in favour of wholesome, locally sourced ingredient­s.

Step into Malhana, and you’ll encounter a culinary philosophy steeped in tradition yet infused with innovation.

“We aim to bring back our true, diverse cultural dining experience­s,” Mr Inoke Deo said.

From Nakai Biriyani to Vegan Fish Surua,

each dish tells a story—a story of flavours that resonate with the soul.

But Malhana isn’t just a place to savour exceptiona­l cuisine; it’s a venue for unforgetta­ble experience­s.

From catering events for esteemed organisati­ons like the President’s Office to fostering discussion­s on sustainabi­lity, Malhana is more than just a restaurant—it’s a community hub.

Ensuring every visit is memorable, Malhana prides itself on its impeccable cleanlines­s, warm ambiance, and dedication to serving fresh, locally inspired dishes.

“We want our guests to feel the essence of Fiji’s diverse culture with every bite,” Mr Inoke Deo said, as he highlighte­d their Halal certificat­ion as a testament to their inclusive approach.

Beyond the confines of its kitchen, Malhana extends its impact to the local community, providing employment opportunit­ies and supporting sustainabi­lity initiative­s.

As Mr Inoke Deo envisioned expanding their reach to other centres on Viti Levu, he remained committed to upholding their standards without compromise.

For him, the most rewarding testimonia­ls aren’t just about the food—they’re about the unique atmosphere that reflects Fiji’s vibrant diversity.

“Malhana creates memories differentl­y,” he said, underscori­ng the restaurant’s ability to transport guests to a realm of culinary bliss. So, what does Mr.Inoke Deo hope guests take away from their dining experience at Malhana?

“We’re off the grid, hidden away in a farming community,” he said with a smile.

“We want guests to cherish the moments they spend here, to savour the flavours and embrace the uniqueness of our setting.” Indeed, at Malhana Cloud Kitchen, every dish tells a story—a story of passion, tradition, and the timeless allure of Fijian cuisine. Visit Malhana Cloud Kitchen on

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 ?? Inset photo: Malhana Cloud Kitchen founder Joseph Inoke Deo. ?? Fish Kokoda served in ripe pawpaw.
Inset photo: Malhana Cloud Kitchen founder Joseph Inoke Deo. Fish Kokoda served in ripe pawpaw.
 ?? ?? Steamed Coconut Prawns serving.
Steamed Coconut Prawns serving.
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Coconut Prawns.
 ?? ?? Tavu Baigani.
Tavu Baigani.

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