The Epicurean Bistro

Ubud’s legendary Amandari needs no introduction. Amidst the burgeoning scene of modern, swanky villas and major resort overhauls, Amandari has remained true to its pioneering roots: understated elegance in its classical Balinese architecture (by the visionary Australian architect Peter Muller) complemented with the impeccable Aman experience. Die-hard “Aman junkies” swear by it. Envious hoteliers strive to mimic it. But it is this quintessential Aman trait that has earned the exquisite boutique chain–the brainchild of Adrian Zecha–numerous awards, industry respect and global admiration.

The Restaurant at Amandari, headed by a young, poised American chef, has been the talk of the island of late. Executive Chef Christian Hinckley joined Amandari in mid-2009, just in time to celebrate the resort’s twentieth anniversary.

Chef Christian’s unique culinary adventures range from apprenticing as a Sous Chef with “Pope of the Palate/Chef of the Century” Joël Robuchon at The Mansion (the first and only 3 Star Michelin Guide Winner in Las Vegas to date) to managing the kitchens of Amankora, a 5-lodge, 72-room exclusive retreat in the Kingdom of Bhutan. He is recently crowned “Most Favourite Chef in Bali” by the readers of a national magazine.

A graduate of the Dubrulle Hotel and Culinary Institute of Canada, Chef Christian calls upon his training in French cuisine and his love of molecular gastronomy in perfecting his signature style: modern bistro cuisine with simple, elegant presentations, respectfully utilizing the freshest local produce and spices. The result: epicurean delights par excellence–lovingly prepared to wow the discerning palates of bon viveurs. The Restaurant offers an archipelago menu featuring speciality dishes from all over Indonesia, western and Indonesian à la carte, daily set menus, and a decadent 5-course degustation menu with wine pairing for the adventurous foodies.

Chef Christian’s signature dish–a foie gras torchon with a black pepper and pineapple relish, berry reduction, and brioche–reflects Aman’s philosophy summed up by Zecha: Simplicity is the essence of elegance.”

Amandari
Kedewatan, Ubud
Bali, Indonesia
T: (+62) 361 975 333
https://www.aman.com/resorts/amandari

Notes:
This article was first published in Indonesia Design — September-October 2010.
Photos by Meliana Salim unless otherwise stated.