Cover Indonesian flavours, reimagined through Apéritif's lens of fine dining
Indonesian flavours, reimagined through Apéritif's lens of fine dining
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At Apéritif, every menu begins with a story. This season, that story unfolds across the Indonesian archipelago.
For the latest chapter of its Guided by the Moon dining experience, the acclaimed Ubud restaurant is turning its attention to Indonesia's rich culinary heritage, drawing inspiration from executive chef Nic Vanderbeeken's recent travels across Eastern Indonesia. The result is a new menu that feels both deeply personal and distinctly Indonesian, one shaped by memorable meals, conversations with locals, and a growing appreciation for the traditions that define the country's diverse food culture.
For Vanderbeeken, the inspiration came from firsthand experiences. Travelling through Eastern Indonesia with his partner, he encountered dishes that offered a deeper understanding of the country's culinary diversity. Among them was Bubur Manado, the beloved porridge from North Sulawesi. Another was Coto Makassar, the rich and aromatic beef soup that has become one of South Sulawesi's most iconic dishes. What began as moments of discovery soon turned into the foundation for a menu that celebrates Indonesia's cuisines through a contemporary lens.
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Above Canapés to start the Guided by the Moon culinary journey at Apéritif
Canapés to start the Guided by the Moon culinary journey at Apéritif
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Rather than recreating traditional recipes, he interprets them through Apéritif's signature style of global gastronomy. Classical French techniques are paired with exceptional Indonesian ingredients, resulting in dishes that honour their origins while offering something entirely new.
The experience opens with Tuna with Pindang Sauce, a dish inspired by the sweet, tangy, and aromatic flavours found in traditional Indonesian pindang or brined fish. Light yet layered, it offers a contemporary take on a familiar flavour profile while staying true to the essence of the original dish.
Among the highlights is the Madura Blue Crab Bubur Manado Risotto, a creative interpretation of the beloved porridge from North Sulawesi. Combining the comforting flavours of Bubur Manado with the richness of a risotto, the dish is elevated by the delicate sweetness of premium blue crab from Madura, resulting in a course that feels both nostalgic and refined. The journey continues with Beef Cheek, inspired by Coto Makassar, a tribute to one of South Sulawesi's most iconic dishes. Slow-cooked until tender, the beef is infused with the warm spices and deep, comforting flavours that have made Coto Makassar a favourite for generations.
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Above Heirloom Tomato, a medley of fresh tomato, goat cheese, and kombucha
Above Nic Vanderbeeken
Heirloom Tomato, a medley of fresh tomato, goat cheese, and kombucha
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Returning guests will also recognise one of Apéritif's signatures: the Venison Wellington. This time, the classic is given an Indonesian twist with a rich rendang sauce, bringing together European technique and one of Indonesia's most celebrated flavours. It's a dish that perfectly captures the spirit of the new menu, familiar yet unexpected, rooted in tradition while looking toward something new.
With this latest chapter of Guided by the Moon, that story feels more personal than ever. Rather than looking outward for inspiration, Vanderbeeken and his team turn inward, celebrating the extraordinary diversity of Indonesia's culinary traditions and the people behind them. The result is a menu that not only showcases exceptional technique and ingredients but also offers diners a meaningful connection to the flavours, memories, and cultural heritage that continue to shape Indonesian cuisine today.
Available in five-course and seven-course degustation menus, Guided by the Moon at Apéritif invites guests on a journey across the archipelago, one course, one story, and one memory at a time.
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