It is not uncommon in Bali for restaurants to find a home along picturesque coasts or atop majestic cliffs. Koral Restaurant takes a different approach, matching the grandiose nature of The Apurva Kempinski Bali. The restaurant turns the sea into its atmospheric setting, placing its dining quarters inside an aquarium, the first of its kind on the island.
Diners notice this immediately upon descending the stairs, leaving behind sunlit palatial courtyards for an ambient space filled with shades of aquamarine. Through the glass panes of walls and overhead domes, guests witness a kaleidoscope of colours as schools of fish flit to and fro and manta rays glide regally. The juxtaposition features a warm teak ceiling, red clay brick walls, and black-and-white tiles, fostering a character brimming with elegance.
Dining here does not hide behind its aquatic setup. Each dish is a testament to the culinary team, spearheaded by Executive Chef Jonas Noël, who brings over 20 years of experience in MICHELIN-starred kitchens. Inspired by the flavours of Indonesia’s coastal regions, the menu champions locally sourced ingredients.
Dishes such as Kalimantan Blue Crab with Oscietra Caviar and Hokkaido Scallop reflect a dialogue between Indonesian flavours and European technique. Further courses celebrate the archipelago’s bounty: Sumbawa octopus tentacle with smoked aubergine and Madura line-caught fish with coconut and kaffir leaf. The star is the Papua Bamboo Lobster with Shellfish Jus, a showcase of locavorism and technical precision. The experience concludes on a sweet note, with Harum Manis mango and Mount Batukaru coffee crafted into refined desserts.
Exquisite Taste Volume 51
Koral Restaurant
at The Apurva Kempinski Bali
W: kempinski.com/bali
IG: @koralbali
