Few can rival the enchanting nature of Ambar Ubud Bar. Meaning sky in Sanskrit, Ambar is adjacent to Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve’s mesmerising Wantilan lobby, perched above the sprawling, verdant hills of Ubud and the Ayung River.
The open-air concept of the restaurant, framed by a tranquil pond, allows in the wonderful natural surroundings, making it especially alluring during the golden sunset hour. At Ambar, wooden furnishings are elevated with tropical foliage, creating an ambience that blends seamlessly with the outside. Add to that the daily live jazz performance, and you will get an unforgettable ambience.
So much more than a typical lobby lounge restaurant, Ambar takes the dining and drinking experience to another level. Boasting a warm, welcoming atmosphere and sheer sophistication, the menu at Ambar is designed with Bali’s rich flavours and the delicacy of Japanese culinary techniques in mind.
Modern Japanese light bites are crafted meticulously and presented with exquisite simplicity at Ambar. Start with the crowd pleaser of udang salad – crispy prawn topped with tonkatsu, mixed greens, soya and olive oil. The tartare selection is also a favourite, with the toro tartare being the star, served with fatty tuna, ginger, spring onion, egg yolk and avruga pearl.
The usuzukuri selection deserves its own nod, showcasing a Japanese method of slicing sashimi thinly – a popular way to present white fish. The usuzukuri scallop is simply divine, with smoked pork Balinese urutan, Maldon salt and ponzu. Don’t miss the usuzukuri truffle comprising red snapper, truffle paste, ponzu and extra virgin olive oil.
The menu at Ambar is quite compact – with the plan of growing in the near future – but it definitely packs a punch, with the maki and sweet sections showcasing more Japanese-influenced delicacies. The cocktail menu is a collaborative effort with Singapore-based Proof Creative, resulting in a series of curated conceptual concoctions.
The Belantara menu is filled with cocktails infused with handpicked ingredients sourced from the surrounding forest, while the Fruits of the Forest highlights classic cocktails amped up with unique twists and various spirits. Last but not least is the Canopy Collection, showcasing Ambar’s own unique specialty spirits.
Exquisite Taste Volume 39
Ambar Ubud Bar
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Jalan Kedewatan, Ubud
Bali 80571, Indonesia
T: (+62) 3614792777
