The nomad; West meets East.
Raffles in Jimbaran, Bali, is one of those sprawling luxury resorts that make you forget the chaos just outside its gates. From the noisy, bumpy main street, entering the long lane towards the lobby feels like stepping into a well-manicured, otherworldly sanctuary. A fresh-cut lawn, a hedge of trees, a perfectly paved road—this is where the evening starts to get special.
I’m on my way to Rumari, helmed by Chef Gaetan Biesuz. Perched at the highest point of the resort, the restaurant boasts a classic Indonesian open design, allowing a fresh breeze to flow through the space while you soak in the stunning views over Jimbaran bay and watch the lights of planes slide from the sky, seemingly guided by the moonlight.
The welcome ritual involves washing your hands with frangipani-infused water. It's refreshing, not just for the body, but it also slows your mind, preparing you for the culinary journey ahead.
In places like this, I never bother with the menu. I trust the chef to deliver an extraordinary experience, and Gaetan didn’t disappoint.
The first snack hits you like a flavor explosion. The lingering dreamy state of mind is blasted away, leaving you fully awake and present. Gaetan hails from Lyon, France, where chefs are lauded for their technical perfection. It doesn't have to be wildly creative—hell, it shouldn’t be—but you’ll get three Michelin stars if you can cook a traditional dish perfectly, day in and day out. Yet, Chef Gaetan is a modern nomad, blending his French culinary skills with Asian ingredients. His 80/20 philosophy isn’t bragging about being sustainable ; it's about using the best of what Indonesia offers and supplementing only when absolutely necessary. This chef is all about awareness, creativity, and offering his guests the best quality.
He’s not shy about transforming a traditional French dish from his Lyon childhood into something brimming with Asian flavors. It’s not just a substitution; it’s an evolution. For example, instead of the usual French bread and butter—hard to come by in high quality in Bali—Gaetan serves a peanut-based cream. One taste and I’m transported back to childhood movie nights, dipping bread into satay sauce. It’s spicy, sweet, and utterly comforting. Or take the caviar dish. If cooking were an Olympic sport, this would be the moment the crowd goes wild—three backward somersaults, landing perfectly. Gold medal material.
Gaetan merges his love for artisanal techniques, traditional recipes, and curiosity to new ingredients at Rumari. It’s a place where culinary tradition meets innovation, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Jimbaran Bay. So if you're in Bali and looking for a dining experience that’s as enlightening as it is delicious, Rumari should be at the top...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at Rumari, a French Indonesian fine dining restaurant, and was blown away by the experience. The food was absolutely incredible, with each dish expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The restaurant itself was beautifully decorated, with a chic and elegant atmosphere that added to the overall dining experience.
The service was top-notch, with the waitstaff being attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. They were able to provide helpful recommendations and ensure that our dining experience was perfect from start to finish.
One of the standout dishes for me was the Indonesian beef rendang, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with rich, complex flavors. The soft shell crab was also incredible, with a perfectly crispy texture and delicate, flavorful meat.
Overall, I would highly recommend Rumari to anyone looking for an exceptional fine dining experience. The food, service, and ambiance were all top-notch, and I can't wait to...
Read moreThis hidden gem offers a culinary adventure that will leave you longing for another taste of Bali. At the heart of this exceptional experience lies a maestro chef Gaetan Biesuz whose passion radiates through each exquisitely crafted dish. Every plate is a testament to artistry and the vibrant flavors of Bali. Familiar ingredients dance in unexpected combinations, a testament to the chef's talent and innovative spirit.
The service complements the cuisine perfectly – attentive without being overbearing. The staff effortlessly guide you through the menu, offering insights into the cultural inspiration behind each dish.
A Must-Visit for Culinary Experience
This restaurant isn't simply about satisfying hunger; it's about embracing Balinese culinary heritage with every bite. If you're searching for authentic flavors, exceptional service, and a taste of culinary artistry, this...
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