Dinner at Mulia resort in Nusa Dua. I'll start by praising the enchanting location in which the restaurant is located. The resort is magnificent and can be seen from the attention and care down to the smallest details. Dinner was a buffet and is sectioned into different food islands representing different culinary experiences. I started with the Japanese corner where I appreciated different types of sushi, sashimi, carpaccio, miso soup and lobster thermidore. However, I appreciated the meat rolls much less which I found overcooked and consequently very dry. I continued with the fish corner. Despite being a fish lover, perhaps this is the corner I liked least. Very small scallops, crab with little meat and prawns which I'm sorry to say had an unpleasant odor and I couldn't eat. Continuing with the gastronomic tour I headed to the Cantonese corner where I enjoyed crunchy pork belly and a very light and pleasant soto bakso style soup. Next to this corner there was Korean food with different types of fried foods, Korean BBQ and vegetable pickles including Kimchi, which I am a great fan of, but which I found in this case decidedly too sweet and not spicy. The bbq corner. Also in this case there was a huge choice of products including sausages, meat and lamb steaks, fish and prawn skewers. I was politely asked about the doneness of the meat, I requested medium rare but all the steaks I received, although the quality was very good, especially hanger steak, were behind doneness. Indian corner. Large selection again. Numerous curries including lamb, chicken and vegetarian. The taste was good but I would have preferred more spices and spiciness. The accompanying sauces were excellent. Naan bread on the other hand disappointed me as it was dry and hard. Western corner. Honestly, at this point it was already full and I wasn't able to try all the options. The bread was very good and was also warm. The chicken kebab quite dry but tasted great and served with salad and tzatziki sauce. I ordered pasta with garlic, oil and clams which wasn't terrible but was ruined by the two soup spoons of chilli flakes that the chef put on it. I end up with two dessert rooms. The first featured madelines, several biscuits, fruit skewers, a chocolate fountain and ice cream. In the second there were small pastries of different varieties, crepes and even a cotton candy machine. The scenographic aspect and the variety of desserts certainly deserve full marks. On the quality side, however, it loses a few points as I found the taste a little too commercial. Finally, I think I only skipped the Thai and Indonesian corner but honestly, I think trying all the food there is a titanic undertaking for anyone. In conclusion, the buffet is worth the trip from across the island to be admired and to try different types of food from all over the world. Given the great variety of food, I believe it is impossible to achieve excellence for all the dishes present but I congratulate the Chefs because at the end of the dinner I left satisfied. The always present service and the value for money are also...
Read moreA Culinary Odyssey at The Café: Where Global Flavors Converge
Step into The Café, and you embark on a captivating journey through the world’s culinary traditions, all without leaving your seat. This vibrant dining destination celebrates the art of fusion, bringing together a dazzling array of authentic dishes that reflect the diverse tapestry of global cuisines.
As you enter, the dynamic open-kitchen concept sets the stage for an immersive gastronomic adventure. Each kitchen represents a unique culinary tradition, led by native chefs who bring their expertise and passion to the forefront. From the delicate finesse of fresh Japanese sashimi and expertly crafted sushi rolls to the sizzling allure of Korean barbecue, every station offers a feast for the senses, showcasing the authentic flavors of their respective cultures.
The café’s commitment to authenticity is evident in its meticulous curation of dishes. The Japanese section, helmed by skilled chefs from Japan, whisks you away to the shores of Tokyo, where the freshest fish is transformed into artful presentations. Meanwhile, the Korean barbecue station, led by native chefs, entices with the mouthwatering aroma of marinated meats, grilled to perfection and ready to be enjoyed with an array of vibrant side dishes.
Southeast Asian delights beckon next, with Thai chefs serving up bold flavors and fragrant herbs that transport diners straight to bustling street markets. The Indian corner features rich curries and warm naan, while the Chinese station showcases beloved dishes that celebrate centuries of culinary craftsmanship.
Not to be overlooked, the Western classics offer a familiar touch, with comfort foods that invite nostalgia and satisfaction. From hearty pastas to tender steaks, this section rounds out the diverse offerings, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
What sets The Café apart is not just the extraordinary range of flavors but also the passion behind each dish. The chefs, masters of their respective cuisines, infuse their creations with love and authenticity, inviting diners to appreciate the stories and traditions that shape each recipe. The result is a harmonious dining experience where every dish serves as a bridge to a different culture, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world’s culinary heritage.
In essence, The Café is more than just a restaurant; it’s an ethnic-gastronomic journey that delights the palate and nourishes the soul. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or an adventurous foodie, this eclectic fusion of global culinary traditions promises to leave you with a lasting impression. Come hungry, and prepare to indulge in a world of flavors that celebrate the beauty of diversity.
Must try: cheese naan, Korean food and...
Read moreThe Cafe Mulia, despite its promising buffet, left room for improvement in delivering an extraordinary dining experience. While it offered a plethora of choices, the variety within each country’s dishes felt limited, dampening the excitement of exploration. Unfortunately, the taste of the food fell short of expectations, especially considering the price point, resulting in a rather mediocre culinary experience. Surprisingly, the absence of complimentary drinks, like wines, in a higher-priced menu was disappointing, especially when compared to other more budget-friendly establishments that offer superior inclusive menus.
Regarding its location within a 5-star resort, The Cafe Mulia’s ambiance felt slightly outdated, lacking the expected modern touch. However, its proximity to the nearby beach provided a scenic backdrop, contrasting with the restaurant’s somewhat lackluster atmosphere.
Service, on the other hand, was a highlight—swift plate clearing and initial seating were commendable. The staff exuded friendliness and were notably helpful throughout the dining experience.
In summary, The Cafe Mulia’s buffet offered an array of choices but fell short in delivering the expected variety within each cuisine. The taste of the dishes was mediocre, considering the price, and the absence of complimentary drinks was unexpected. The restaurant’s ambiance didn’t quite match the 5-star resort setting, though the service provided a bright spot with its efficiency and friendly demeanor, making the overall experience acceptable but not...
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