Exceptional food is the heart of any successful fine-dining restaurant, but the ambience, experience, and innovation keep the memories alive in every customer’s heart. Apéritif restaurant, a beacon of culinary excellence in Ubud, Bali, pushes the boundaries of taste and presentation, constantly reinventing the art of fine dining in Ubud. The establishment has received much praise from everyone who’s had the chance to visit, so I took it upon myself to share my amazing experience and prepare you for what awaits.
Travel Back in Time With Apéritif’s Art Deco Oasis
Fine dining at Apéritif isn’t just a meal; it’s a portal to the twenties, where jungle views meet crisp Art Deco lines. Polished walls, gleaming with bold black accents, set the stage, while huge windows blur the line between indoors and vibrant greenery.
But this enchanting ambience is only the prologue to your culinary adventure. Before your journey begins, the restaurant invites you to indulge in a timeless ritual: the pre-dinner drink and canapés. A charming trolley laden with cocktails, each a vibrant ode to the 1920s, arrives at your table.
The bartender spins tales of the era’s iconic libations while the delicate canapés, crafted with exquisite local ingredients, give you a prelude to the culinary symphony that awaits. The pre-dinner drink and canapés are not just refreshments but an invitation to slow down and savour the moment. It’s a performance, a carefully orchestrated experience where every detail is designed to prepare your palate for the journey ahead.
Eclectic Degustation Menus
The restaurant takes pride in its degustation menus, each a vibrant tapestry woven from modern gastronomy, local ingredients, and globally sourced delights.
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, the Signature Degustation awaits:
- A symphony of textures and flavours, from the creamy decadence of Chicken Liver Mousse with Balado to the refreshing burst of Cured Red Snapper with Ponzu.
- Succulent Wagyu Carpaccio meets smoky Bone Marrow, while Opu Fish swims in a vibrant Woku sauce.
- Hokkaido Scallops dance in a creamy Chowder, Black Cod basks in the warmth of Parape, and the Wagyu A5, if you dare, elevates the experience with its melt-in-your-mouth luxury.
- Peanut Butter Mousse dances with Raspberries and Blackberries, while a selection of Pastry Chef Dayu’s petit fours leaves you wanting more.
For the bold and curious, the Avant-Garde Degustation awaits:
- Crudo arrives with a whisper of truffle, Octopus embraces the earthy allure of Suna Cekuh, and Argentinian Red Prawns revel in a spicy Gulai Aceh.
- Short Ribs emerge from a rich Oxtail Soup, Black Cod embraces the vibrant notes of Parape, and the Kurobuta Pork sings a duet with Mango and Melon.
- Goat Cheese gets a fruity makeover with green mustard and tomato, while chocolate tropical tempts with Bahibe 46% milk chocolate and a symphony of tropical fruits.
But Apéritif caters to every culinary desire because vegetarians and vegans get a dedicated menu that celebrates the earth’s bounty. For a romantic evening, the Candlelight Degustation sets the mood with intimate table settings. And if you’re just dropping by for a lighter midday experience, the Lunch Menu offers a curated selection of Apéritif’s signature dishes.
No culinary journey is complete without a perfect pairing; that’s why Apéritif boasts an impressive wine list, carefully curated to complement each dish. Jean-Benoit Issele, the Maître d’Hôtel & Chef Sommelier, is a master of his craft, his passion for wine evident in every recommendation. He will guide you through the world’s finest vintages, ensuring every sip is a counterpoint to the flavours on your plate.
Culinary Masterminds
At the heart of Apéritif’s culinary magic lies a team of passionate artists. Leading the charge is Chef Nic Vanderbeeken, the Executive Chef, whose 20+ years of experience are woven into every dish. His artistry thrives on cross-cultural collaborations, bringing influences from Vietnam to Europe and blending them seamlessly with the bounty of Bali.
Alongside him stands Head Chef Arvin, a testament to Apéritif’s commitment to nurturing talent. From trainee to leader, Arvin has meticulously honed his skills, becoming an integral part of the culinary engine. His deep understanding of Apéritif’s essence shines through in each dish, ensuring consistency and excellence.
Head Mixologist Panji Wisrawan, a maestro of mixology with award-winning cocktails inspired by the glamour of the 1920s and Bali’s intoxicating flavours. Drinks like “The Primitivist,” a silky blend of Plantation Oftd, coffee, and pandanus, or “The Anthropologist,” a piquant mix of pineapple, baijiu, and strawberry hold an old tale in every sip.
Beyond the Main Stage: The Private Dining Room
Beyond the main dining area, Apéritif reveals a hidden gem: the intimate and exclusive Private Dining Room. This sanctuary offers an unparalleled experience, perfect if you want an immersive encounter tailored to your desires.
But the true magic unfolds before your eyes: a window into the heart of the kitchen where you can watch Chef Nic and his team at work. To upgrade your experience further, the exclusive chef’s table makes you a witness to the culinary art firsthand, accompanied by Chef Nic’s passionate narration. You may need a minimum of IDR 22,000,000 for such an experience, which is worth the investment for a lasting memory.
More Than Just a Meal
Apéritif is more than a restaurant; it’s an immersive experience. It’s a place where time slows down, every detail is crafted to perfection, and every bite is a journey through time. Whether celebrating life’s milestones, fostering connections with loved ones, or simply yearning for a fine-dining adventure, Apéritif welcomes you with open doors and hearts. This haven in the heart of Ubud promises not just a meal but an unforgettable experience for your senses.
