Situated at TA’AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo, Umasa is more than your ordinary dining venue. Dedicated to showcasing the majestic flavours of Nusantara, this restaurant serves Indonesian cuisine with an elevated approach, all the while supporting sustainability.
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by Rizky Adityo
In the luxurious surroundings of Labuan Bajo, with its sweeping ocean views and pristine landscapes, a meal at Umasa becomes an unforgettable journey through Indonesia’s flavours. Located in the lavish TA’AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo, guests are treated to an immersive culinary journey that explores the diverse flavours of the nation by fusing traditional and contemporary cooking methods.
The Chefs of Umasa create a menu that highlights the rich culinary diversity of the Indonesian archipelago, drawing inspiration from the phrase Dari Sabang sampai Merauke. The philosophy behind the dining experience revolves around locally sourced ingredients, presented in a family-style setting to reflect the warmth and communal spirit of the region.
The menu highlights the diverse culinary landscape of Indonesia, with each dish representing a lesser-known area such as Lebaksiu, Karo and of course, East Nusa Tenggara. The meal begins with an assortment of appetisers that introduce the tantalising tastes of the islands. The Dojang Nakeng from Nusa Tenggara Timur features a delightful combination of prawn, squid and Bajawa vegetables, dressed with a zesty Dojang sauce. The Tuna Gohu from North Maluku offers a refreshing burst of flavour, combining a tangy sourness with a spicy kick.
The main courses are equally captivating. Umasa’s menu showcases the world-renowned Rendang made with succulent Tajima Black Angus short ribs. This rich, slow-cooked dish is paired with an emulsion that enhances its deep, complex flavours, offering a tribute to Indonesia’s most famous culinary creation.
The Grill section is a masterful exploration of texture and taste. Dishes like Lobster Marina from East Nusa Tenggara showcase the fresh seafood of Flores, grilled to perfection and complemented by Sambal Luat, a chilli sauce indigenous to Labuan Bajo, made with ingredients grown from the resort’s very own Kebunku Garden, while the Iga Babi Panggang from Sumatra is served with sambal andaliman – a spicy condiment that perfectly complements the smoky flavour of the dish. For a taste of Java, the Bekakak offers juicy baby chicken paired with buttery spinach and sambal bawang, a delightful blend of bold flavours and rich tradition.
For guests seeking a more unique experience, the restaurant offers the Tiffin Box Menu, a homage to Indonesia’s colonial past, when multi-layered tiffin boxes were used to carry a variety of dishes. This special offering symbolises practicality and sustainability, serving up a selection of local specialities such as Rendang and sambal, all beautifully presented and perfect for sharing. Each layer of the tiffin reveals a new chapter in Indonesia’s culinary story, making it an ideal option for those wishing to explore the country’s rich food culture in one meal.
Umasa’s inventive beverage programme, which highlights Indonesia’s varied flavours and elevates them to the forefront of modern mixology, perfectly balances this exceptional dining experience. Inspired by the archipelago’s rich culinary traditions, the carefully chosen cocktail menu reimagines traditional Indonesian dishes and beverages like Jamu, Rujak and Jajanan Pasar while utilising regional ingredients. For those seeking a non-alcoholic option, Umasa offers mocktails that blend nostalgic flavours with a modern twist, evoking fond childhood memories for Indonesians.
“The Chefs of Umasa creates a menu that draws inspiration from the phrase “Dari Sabang sampai Merauke.”
Exquisite Taste Volume 45
Umasa
TA’AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo
Pantai Wae Rana, Labuan Bajo
East Nusa Tenggara 86763, Indonesia
T: (+62) 3852381888
E: tlc.lbjlc.reservation@marriott.com
W: marriott.com
IG: @taaktanalabuanbajo
