Archipelagic Treasure at Petulu
Petulu Restaurant introduces authentic Indonesian cuisine that truly satisfies, from the eastern reach to the western tip of the archipelago.
Atranquil haven set in the lush green hills of Ubud, Kamandalu Ubud unveiled its new face earlier in June. Styled in a classic Balinese village structure and décor, it welcomes guests to the newly reopened Petulu Restaurant. Overlooking the rice terraces, the award-winning restaurant serves a mouth-watering variety of Indonesian fusion treats, a menu redesigned exclusively by culinary expert William Wongso. My Petulu experience indulged my taste buds in a breathtaking array of Indonesian Archipelagic cuisine, whilst emphasizing traditional Balinese dishes.
A hidden gem set among the luxurious greenery of Ubud, Kamandalu Ubud presents Petulu Restaurant, a divinely authentic Indonesian restaurant bringing a mix of east meets west.
Petulu embraces the depth of tasteful local ingredients that exude the right amount of flavour to entice you to mouth-watering bliss. There is a little bit of Dutch influence visible in their signature Rijstafel collection of Nasi Campur Bali, Jawa, Langgi and Begana, a large plate combining traditionally cooked rice with assorted side dishes. The list is endless, from your appetizers to dessert, there is plenty to savour.
For my culinary visit I started off with a Petulu favourite, the Tuna Salad Sambal Matah, a perfectly grilled tuna with baby beans served with a delicious Balinese tomato and lemongrass shallot salsa. Beautifully plated, it tasted as succulent as it looked. The combination of the tuna and the homemade salsa melted in my mouth as it burst with flavours. The dish accurately resonates the restaurant’s harmonious blend of traditional delicacies with a contemporary twist.
Before I knew it, I headed for my main of Nasi Campur Bali, a must for those diners looking to try Balinese cuisine. The dish presents a combination of Yellow Rice served with sides of Twisted Chicken Satay, Grilled Prawns, Smoked Duck, Egg and Mixed Vegetables. Chef William Wongso has also created a menu of Archipelagic Indonesian Dishes from the Balinese Curry, Pindang Woku (A Manadonese stewed fish dish), Peliatan Bebek Betutu (Balinese spiced smoked duck) to the popular Tahu Telor, perfect for sharing. A classic mix of Mie Goreng (fried noodles) and Nasi Goreng (fried rice) are also available for diners to choose from.
“Kamandalu Ubud’s concept of a natural, tranquil escape is more relevant than ever in today’s society. In our philosophy, Kamandalu Ubud is our village, our staff is our extended family, and our guests are our sacred responsibility”
As for dessert, the menu offers a variety of Indonesian desserts from the local fruit Biji Salak and Lapek Bugis to assorted tropical fresh fruits. Platter selections of Balinese Dessert Samplers and Archipelago Dessert Samplers are also served for diners to savour a bit of everything. To top off my meal, I ordered the Kue Serabi, a traditional rice pancake topped with grated cheese and a chocolate chip ice cream, a proper Indonesian dessert that was just divine.
Petulu Restaurant at Kamandalu Ubud is amongst the top of my favourites. It was like sitting in the comfort of your own dining room. This surely will not be my last visit.
