Experience the Taste of Indonesia at The Residence Maldives resorts with Executive Chef Lambok Tambunan

26 October, 2024

This November, Cenizaro Hotels and Resorts invites guests to indulge in a remarkable culinary experience with Savour The World by Cenizaro: A Taste of Indonesia. This exclusive event showcases the rich and authentic flavours of Indonesia in Maldives, expertly crafted by Chef Lambok Tambunan, Executive Chef of The Residence Bintan. Known for his dedication to traditional Indonesian cuisine, Chef Lambok will transport the beloved tastes of his homeland to the Maldives, using locally sourced ingredients to ensure an unforgettable dining experience for all guests.  

Chef Lambok Tambunan brings over 12 years of culinary expertise, having grown up in a humble environment that fostered his passion for cooking. In the warmth of his home kitchen, a passion for culinary arts was ignited by the cherished home-cooked meals prepared by his beloved mother. These everyday dishes, infused with love and care, embody the true essence of the flavours of home for  Chef Lambok. 

To this day, he has infused every single dish with the same love and care. His goal in the culinary realm is to showcase the authentic flavours of Indonesia to an international audience. “One can always rely on sincerity to remain steadfast,” stated Chef Lambok, who remains true to his roots by embracing traditional techniques and paying meticulous attention to every element he incorporates, including the use of fresh local ingredients in all his dishes.  

From 16 – 20 November 2024, The Residence Maldives will host a special gastronomic dining event,  celebrating the cross-cultural sharing of two destinations against the breath-taking backdrop of the  Indian Ocean, Guests can expect to be delighted with different sets of special menus on different days specially curated by Chef Lambok, that will showcase culinary highlights and favourites from the signature restaurant Rica Rica at The Residence Bintan. These include a multi-course degustation menu of “Tuna Dabu Dabu Lemong” – Pan-seared tuna loin with spicy sambal dabu dabu, “Iga Bakar  Madu” – Grilled lamb rack with honey soya sauce, chilli salsa, and roasted garlic pumpkin and to delight the palate with a Nusantara Petit Four, featuring four variations of local desert such as Lapis legit, Dadar  Gulung, Wajik and Klepon. 

On 18th November, Café Del Sol at The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah will be serving up a selection of signature specials, including  Rendang Minang, a slow-cooked beef dish infused with aromatic spices, and Bebek Betutu, a Balinese baked duck breast seasoned with betutu spices and expertly wrapped. Featuring the traditional banana leaf presentation and the renowned Sup Buntut Betawi, this dish showcases slow-cooked oxtail, delivering a rich and flavourful culinary experience. The traditional soup buntet recipe features a harmonious blend of aromatics and rooted vegetables. A special Chef’s table lunch on the 20th November at Long Island will feature an exquisite array of local dishes, masterfully blending sweet,  sour, salty, and spicy flavours that capture the true essence of Indonesian cuisine. Guests are invited to indulge in a bowl of Es Chendol, an elevated rendition of a classic and cherished Indonesian dessert,  to end on a sweet note. 

Guests have the opportunity to engage in a private masterclass with Chef Lambok, where ingredients will be sourced from The Residence Maldives – Earth Basket. Participants will learn to prepare traditional and delectable Indonesian dishes under the guidance of the chef and will also have the chance to savour the fruits of their labour. 

This edition of Savour The World by Cenizaro: presents an exciting exploration of the authentic flavours of Indonesia, featuring the exceptional offerings at The Residence Bintan. This initiative highlights the richness of well-loved global cuisines by offering a distinctive palate experience aimed at fostering a gastronomic exchange across each destination.  

The Residence by Cenizaro: In the Maldives, the Singaporean hotel chain Cenizaro Hotel & Resorts runs The Residence Maldives by Cenizaro and The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah. Nestled in the southern Gaafu Alif Atoll, these resorts are adjacent by a custom-built bridge that enables guests to travel between the two islands, this is one of the largest multi-island resort offerings in the Maldives. Each property in the family reflects a distinctive, individual personality and sense of place, and they all embody the legendary hallmarks of excellence the world has come to know: attention to detail and intuitive, personal and discreet customer service.

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