Set against a 180-degree view of the Indian Ocean and Lombok Strait, the Tamarind Kitchen & Lounge is quite a spectacle.
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By Harriet M.
A true masterpiece of sustainable architecture, Tamarind Kitchen & Lounge is made entirely of bamboo with a glorious thatched roof. The restaurant has just been shortlisted in The Restaurant & Bar Design Awards 2015/2016 for best outside space category.
Stepping inside, it is clear that the theme continues, with everything from the hanging light fixtures to the drink coasters made from wood. The open-air pavilion seats 150 guests and is set over two levels. The lower level and beach deck seating area are an exclusive setting surrounded by beautiful beach trees along the seashore. Up the spiral staircase, the second level benefits from a delightful sea breeze and views overlooking the best of what Nusa Dua’s coastline has to offer.
The name Tamarind is inspired by one of Bali’s most revered traditional fruits. So remaining close to its roots, this restaurant uses only local and organic produce, but with an international twist. Perfectly in tune with the style of the restaurant, the menus are presented to guests with an individual bamboo stick. Both the lunch and dinner menus feature a creative selection of Indonesian and international flavours at their best. From homemade favourites like chicken tikka and seared tuna loin wraps, to salads and burgers, the menu caters to most tastes. To start, the carpaccio is an excellent choice. Decorated with cress and sun-dried tomatoes, this was delicate yet delicious and the parmesan truffle was the perfect accompaniment to the dish. Other starters available include the chicken and lamb satay and the warm grilled seafood salad.
For lunch, the chef’s weekly special was the Honky Tonk burger. Served with a pocket-sized jam jar full of smoky BBQ sauce and truffle fries, this meal is the perfect choice for those hungry after a busy morning of water sports on the beach. If you fancy a slightly lighter meal, you may enjoy the pineapple and tofu salad. Served with papaya, Asian pear, raisins, poppy seeds, beetroot and strawberry dressing, it’s a truly mouth-watering alternative.
Warm chocolate brownie, Mediterranean crème brûlée and mandarin and white chocolate parfait make saving room for desert a must! It was also great to see such a varied selection of ice creams on offer. Young or old, the Toblerone flavour is a delicious and welcome treat in the midday sun.
The drinks menu at the Tamarind Kitchen & Lounge is extensive. Refreshing juices and mocktails appear to be the specialty with intriguing concoctions of fresh fruit and herbs making great thirst quenchers. The Virgin Colada was tangy yet creamy, and quite honestly delicious. If you prefer a Pina Colada to a Virgin Colada, the cocktail list is equally as impressive.
The restaurant is further complemented by its superb service and attentive staff. With stunning views and delicious organic cuisine, the Tamarind Kitchen & Lounge should be at the top of your list when visiting Bali’s Nusa Dua region.
