As the most popular island in the entire Indonesian archipelago, Bali is full of surprises and besides the promise of sunshine and tropical waters a visit to Bali Asli in East Bali is a must.
Vacationidea has the full story.
Looking out from the deck at Bali Asli, it’s easy to see why
Australian chef Penny Williams fell hard for East Bali.
The first episode of the new Luxury Escapes TV show featured Penelope and Bali Asli.
There are 3 clips you may like to view just click on the links:
At Bali Asli
The Vespa Adventure
The Trip to the Temple and picnic lunch
From the culinary treats of Ubud to the high-class resorts of Jimbaran Bay, Bali is a foodie haven which can surprise even veteran travellers. The island’s thriving restaurant scene embodies the best elements of Balinese culture – Indonesian traditions, Western and Australian influences and an endless party atmosphere, whilst using the fruits of this tropical paradise to create unique culinary creations. Here are 10 of the best restaurants you should visit when in town.
Bali Asli a Taste of the Real Bali
We do not speak the same language, but the genuine warmth radiating from the older woman’s wide, open smile, reaching upwards to the corners of her eyes, requires no translation.
We cannot help but beam back. The smiles stay on our faces as we leave this traditional Balinese compound home and follow Penelope Williams, executive chef and owner of Bali Asli, on the rest of our trek through the village, Gelumpang, that neighbours her cooking school and restaurant.
GUEST CHEFS IN RESIDENCE
Bali Asli, a “Back to Roots” Epicurean Experience by Chef Penelope Williams
9 April 2016
The Warung at Alila Villas Uluwatu invites gourmands on a flavourful journey back to South Bali’s culinary roots hosted by guest chef in residence Penelope Williams, creator and Executive Chef of Bali Asli restaurant.
“Asli” means real, true and authentic, and it is the heart of Chef Penelope’s cooking. Her restaurant, Bali Asli, lies nestled in the foothills of sacred Mount Agung, in Gelumpang village, Karangasem regency, in northeast Bali, an inspiring environment surrounded by nothing but lush rice fields. Delivering “real culinary adventures”, Bali Asli promotes Balinese cuisine and culture, embracing the local community and paying homage to the amazing produce that is farmed, fished and foraged from the surrounding land and waters.
Penelope’s menus revolve around authentic Balinese food using a traditional Balinese-style kitchen featuring wood-fired, mud brick stoves that allow the real flavours of Bali to shine, particularly the flavours unique to Karangasem. Indeed, it is this region of Bali that has captured Penelope’s heart and inspired her on this culinary path.
Born in England, Penelope immigrated to Australia with her parents at the age of 7. After finishing high school in Australia, she travelled for six months though Southeast Asia, India and Nepal. She then headed to England where she became an apprentice chef at the Savoy Hotel, building up an invaluable foundation of skills.
Upon returning to Sydney four years later, Penelope continued her career in restaurants such as Bayswater Brasserie, Restaurant 41, The Boathouse, Bather’s Pavilion and Danks Street Depot. In 2007, she was sought out by Alila Manggis in East Bali, where her time as Executive Chef opened the door to a new chapter in her life and fuelled a newfound passion for authenticity, inspired by East Bali’s rich variety of fresh, natural produce. Bali Asli is the culmination of this passion, captivating guests with a slice of Bali that is a little out of the ordinary.
In Bali, food is very regional with many variations on a theme. Celebrating this variety, Penelope will tailor the Bali Asli concept to The Warung’s southern Bali setting. Join us on a journey of rediscovery as Chef Penelope enraptures you with original dishes unique to the areas of Uluwatu and Jimbaran that have become lost amid the influx of international flavours. Rediscover the beauty and vibrancy of southern Balinese cuisine in this enthralling dining experience. Secure your seat now!
For more information or reservations please email uluwatu@alilahotels.com.
Hello Bali Magazine
A day trip to Bali’s lush hinterland is always a good idea, especially when a tasty meal and scenic views are involved. And so we find ourselves at Bali Asli, in the north-east of the island, not far from the evocative water palace of Tirta Gangga. With a stunning setting high on a ridge, we are treated to an idyllic tropical panorama while enjoying a feast of authentic Balinese food. Picturesque rice paddies and thick tropical forests spread out before us, ducks waddle around the fields, cows rest in the shade of papaya groves, and Mount Agung makes a majestic backdrop.
Virgin Australia Travel
From almost any vantage point along the east-coast of Karangasem, the towering profile of Bali’s largest volcano is visible, looming imperiously over the surrounding rice terraces.
Back in 1985 when I last visited Bali as a young backpacker, it was on the cusp of change. The tranquil cultural centre of Ubud was little more than a single street with a few shops and even fewer cars.
The beach resort area of Kuta, although a hotspot for travellers, felt like a small village.
Today, those centres are awash with luxury hotels, villas and boutique shops, and the roads are often gridlocked. Even though I’ve changed too, I can’t help wondering: whatever happened to the Bali of yesteryear?
Thankfully, the answer is that it’s still there. The east-coast Karangasem area has hardly been touched, mainly due to the narrow, mountainous roads impassable for big coaches, and the black volcanic sand beaches that put off many sun-seeking tourists.
Read the full review about the Real Bali in Karangasem Regency
Nadia Felsch visit to Bali Asli posted 18 November 2015
