July 24–28, 2026

rare island residency with James Beard–recognized chef Niven Patel, whose bold Indian flavors and farm-driven philosophy have redefined modern dining. Over four immersive days, land and sea converge in a curated series of fire-driven gatherings and refined tasting experiences. An invitation to explore spice, seasonality, and storytelling in one of the Caribbean’s most pristine settings.

This summer, Salterra hosts an extraordinary culinary residency with acclaimed chef Niven Patel — a four-time James Beard Award semifinalist whose ingredient-driven cuisine has reshaped modern Indian dining in America.

As founder of Ghee Indian Kitchen, Chef Niven earned national recognition for pairing vibrant, traditional Indian flavors with a rigorous farm-to-table ethos. Much of his produce is cultivated at Rancho Patel, his two-acre organic farm in Homestead, Florida, where turmeric, moringa, custard apples, and heirloom vegetables are grown with care and intention.

Under the umbrella of FEAL Hospitality, Chef Niven has expanded his culinary vision through concepts including Orno, Erba, NiMo Coastal Mediterranean, and Paya — each unified by a reverence for seasonality, technique, and expressive flavor.

At Salterra, his philosophy finds new terrain.

Here, the island becomes the pantry.

Just-caught snapper. Caribbean lobster at peak season. Indigenous herbs. Tropical fruits warmed by salt air. Smoke, spice, citrus, and sea converge in dishes that feel both ancestral and entirely of this place.

Friday | Arrival & Sunset Cocktail Salon

Guests are welcomed to Salterra. As dusk softens the horizon, a hosted cocktail reception introduces Chef Niven’s culinary philosophy.

Saturday | Island Cookout — Fire, Farm & Ocean

Along the shoreline, flame becomes the focal point.

Whole fish roast slowly over hardwood embers. Lobster is brushed with spiced ghee. Prime cuts are finished with herbaceous chutneys. Seasonal vegetables are charred and dressed with citrus and sea salt. 

The atmosphere is elemental yet refined — long tables beneath open sky, linen softened by sea breeze, conversation flowing easily.

Sunday | Chef’s Tasting at Brine

The residency culminates in an exclusive multi-course tasting menu.

This is Chef Niven at his most expressive: disciplined technique layered with bold Indian flavors, calibrated heat, texture, and balance. Each course unfolds as a study in land and sea — smoke against brightness, spice against salinity, restraint against intensity.

Optional sommelier-led wine pairings are available to elevate the experience further.

Monday | Morning at Leisure & Departures

A final breakfast overlooking turquoise waters; airport transfers arranged at your convenience.

Chef Niven’s cuisine has earned national acclaim, including multiple James Beard Award semifinalist recognitions and features in leading culinary publications. His approach is both thoughtful and deeply personal — a belief that the integrity of the ingredient defines the experience.

Seating for this residency is intentionally limited to preserve intimacy and access.

An invitation to experience one of America’s most compelling chefs — in one of the Caribbean’s most pristine settings.

Reservations required.

guestexperiences@salterra.com | +1(649)333-5368