Tristan Tanaya
Oct 08, 2026
Anantara Ubud Bali Resort welcomes I Wayan Agus Palguna, known as Chef Paul, as Chef de Cuisine at Amerta, the resort’s signature wood-fire restaurant in Payangan, Bali. Bringing nearly two decades of culinary experience, Chef Paul will lead the Amerta kitchen alongside Executive Chef Gianni Stargiotti, bringing a distinctly Balinese perspective to the restaurant’s evolving culinary direction.
A graduate of Bali Hotel School, Chef Paul began his culinary career in 2007. His journey has taken him beyond Bali and back home, building nearly two decades of experience across luxury hospitality kitchens. Along the way, he has developed a thoughtful approach to contemporary cuisine, complemented by strong leadership and a natural ability to connect with both his team and guests.
At Amerta, Chef Paul brings this experience to a restaurant shaped by fire, seasonality and a respect for quality ingredients. The menu celebrates Mediterranean-inspired wood-fire cooking, with carefully sourced meats, fresh seafood and seasonal produce prepared to allow their natural flavours to take the lead.
Set against the rainforest landscape of Payangan, north of Ubud, Amerta offers a dining experience closely connected to its surroundings. Open-fire cooking brings warmth and character to the restaurant, while Chef Paul’s arrival adds a local perspective shaped by his years of working in kitchens both in Bali and abroad.
“Bali has always shaped the way I understand food, from the ingredients around us to the way we gather around the table,” says Chef Paul. “At Amerta, I want to bring that connection into the kitchen while continuing to explore new techniques and ideas. For me, good cooking starts with quality ingredients and allowing each one to speak for itself.”
Working closely with Executive Chef Gianni Stargiotti, Chef Paul will oversee Amerta’s day-to-day kitchen operations while contributing to menu development and the continued evolution of the restaurant.
“Paul brings strong local knowledge, experience and an instinctive understanding of ingredients,” says Chef Gianni. “There is a natural connection between his approach and what we are creating at Amerta, and I look forward to seeing his own character come through in the restaurant.”
Beyond the kitchen, Chef Paul enjoys discovering local cuisine, spending time with his family, and playing football. His connection to Bali and its food culture continues to influence the way he approaches both cooking and leadership.
Chef Paul’s arrival marks a new chapter for Amerta at Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, strengthening the resort’s culinary team while continuing its focus on thoughtful dining experiences inspired by place, produce and craftsmanship.
Amerta at Anantara Ubud Bali Resort
Jl. Raya Puhu Payangan, Gianyar, Bali
Phone: +62 361 2017888
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