A trip to Bali isn’t complete if you haven’t tried some of the most delicious Balinese fare. Fortunately, Tamarind restaurant is here to serve authentic Balinese delicacies with a modern twist.
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The road to Banyan Tree Ungasan is somewhat long and winding, but the ambience you get once there will make you forget about the traffic and commotion outside. Perched on the cliff of Ungasan – 70 metres above sea level – the destination boasts an elevated view of the gleaming Indian Ocean and a lush green landscape.
Within the mesmerising property is Tamarind restaurant, which serves Balinese culinary treasures on a whole new level. Perfectly nestled in one of the property’s secluded nooks, Tamarind sits by Banyan Tree Ungasan’s tranquil relaxation pool, just before the majestic view of the surrounding greenery. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor areas – the latter of which is perfect for pre-dinner drinks.
With a new culinary concept launched in April, Tamarind aims to bring Balinese fare into the well-deserved spotlight, by using the best quality ingredients and in particular ramping up the protein portion. Imagine Bali’s beloved condiment, sambal matah, paired with the meatiest top-notch scallops, or sambal mangga on top of sous vide yellowfin tuna – luscious with its coconut oil flavour, its truly a Balinese signature.
The main dish section highlights the authentic babi genyol, the best cut of pork belly stewed in a traditional spice concoction with young jackfruit. Tamarind also brings its own take on Balinese salad – known as lawar – that usually comprises chopped green beans, shredded coconut and a type of pulled meat. Sous Chef Ketut Desak Widiani uses premium wagyu beef to pimp up this favourite comfort food, which works wonderfully. Don’t forget to taste some of the traditional dessert, like bubur sumsum, white rice congee with green cincau jelly, jackfruit sago, palm sugar syrup, coconut milk and sesame tuille.
As any Balinese – or Indonesian – restaurant should, Tamarind dishes out a selection of sambal. Bali’s most popular sambal, matah and mbe, are served along with an assortment of kerupuk, or crackers. Guests can also choose between regular steamed rice, yellow rice or red rice to accompany the lovely meal. Meanwhile on the beverage front, other than the usual suspects, Tamarind also offers a loloh selection. Loloh are traditional Balinese drinks comprising indigenous herbs and parts of plants, which usually taste sharp and pungent, but are really good for your health. While they are an acquired taste, they are something that everyone must try at least once.
The extensive menu is available on an à la carte basis, but if you come with a big group and want to try a little bit of everything, there are The Signature and The Rijstaffle packages that include a thorough set menu and a wine-pairing option. The ultimate Balinese feast!
