Last weekend, we were incredibly fortunate to be invited to one of the most unique fine dining experiences in Bandung: Joongla. Joongla was conceived from its founders' concerns about the limited access to traditional Indonesian food archives, the low awareness among the middle class about their consumption patterns' impact, and the lack of platforms for discussions on the archipelago's gastronomy. Inspired by the Spanish word for jungle, "jungla," Joongla truly lives up to its name, offering an adventurous experience for all five senses with delightful surprises along the way.
A Warm Welcome
The evening began with a warm greeting from our session leader, who invited us and the other guests to introduce ourselves. This embrace of the Indonesian saying "tak kenal maka tak sayang" (you can't care about someone you don't know) set the stage for a communal dining experience. As we entered the room, we were welcomed by the chefs and team, finding our names on each seat with a starter and a refreshing nutmeg drink awaiting us.
A Culinary Journey through Sulawesi
This season's theme was "Berlabuh di Dermaga Sulawesi" (Docking at Sulawesi Pier), featuring a nine-course meal that took us on a gastronomic journey. The amuse bouche, made from the excess ingredients of the main dishes, honored the Bugis culture's ethos of not leaving food unfinished. The salad, bursting with freshness, included lacto-fermented mango, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, candied coconut, passion fruit and turmeric sauce, and sea grapes as the highlight.
The appetizer featured octopus carpaccio, a nod to Central Sulawesi being Indonesia's second-largest octopus supplier. However, the soup, Kuru Sumange, truly stole the spotlight. This savory broth, enriched with ravioli filled with smoked skipjack tuna, keju dangke (a buffalo milk cheese), crispy ginger, fresh chives, and basil, left a lasting impression.
Memorable Main Courses and a Perfect Palate Cleanser
The main course, which initially resembled sushi, was actually barramundi wrapped in spinach, accompanied by pumpkin puree and corn sauce. Each bite was a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Our favorite dish was the palate cleanser, Patiwangi, a torch ginger sorbet with sea salt infused with calamansi. This sweet, fresh, and slightly salty treat was a fascinating surprise that highlighted Joongla's innovative approach.
A Celebration of Indonesian Culture
Joongla's commitment to using high-quality ingredients and their meticulous research into Sulawesi's culture ensured that each dish was not only delicious but also educational. Every bite offered new knowledge and cultural insights, making this dining experience truly remarkable. The vibrant and flavorful dishes lingered in our minds for days, marking Joongla as an experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime.
Set aside some time, make a reservation as soon as possible, and embark on a culinary adventure at Joongla. It's an experience that promises to stimulate your palate and enrich your understanding of Indonesian culture.
Joongla
Jalan Sukajadi No.148-150, Bandung
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