Impeccable T.
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The Mandapa Ritz-Carlton is by reservation/s only. So, if you decide to come here for your Kubu dinner, let it be known that you will only be here for the dinner alone as you cannot be accepted into the other establishments as a walk-in customer unless you have already made prior reservations such as Ambar Ubud Bar or Sawah Terrace. That said, the staff there have definitely made sure to secure a slot at Sawah Terrace at the last minute while waiting for Kubu to open which is really nice of them.
Mandapa on its own is already beautifully and strategically managed being 1 of the 8 elegant and ultra luxurious Ritz-Carlton Reserves around the world. Truly a spectacular visit and most definitely one for the books.
Dinner was extraordinary. It was paced well and despite the staff being warm and accommodating, and would be more than willing to go the extra mile, they were not unnecessarily disturbing the dinner service by asking how the food was, etc from time-to-time. I find that more of a nuisance really since every dish is introduced anyway and that will be the chance to ask questions, albeit unnecessarily. It was simply a smooth and elegant execution of the Balinese cuisine, locally and sustainably sourced. I felt full without feeling bloated.
Although, given that everything is served at one dinner table and no chance of getting to know the chef or see the kitchen, I can say it is still a relatively small restaurant. Moreover, the little hut or nest makes it a bit suffocating as dinner progresses into the 4-hour service, despite that it looks chic and one-of-a-kind, and, to be fair, I really did want to be there, I would rather just have my table on the open dining area where you can breathe in freely and enjoy the bigger scenery of the Ayung River right in front of you.
For some reason, Payangan Beans/Egg Confit dish was the only striking and remarkable dish for me, the fusion of flavours and the creaminess of the yolk. I find that rather peculiar. I did enjoy the dinner overall but the meat/fish dishes were not exeptional. The amuse bouche didn't capture my expectation for that exciting introduction to the cuisine. Is it because the amuse bouche is much better served separately in the restaurant? And for the dessert, a sorbet and ice cream quenelle was not it for me as a finale.
However, that surprise birthday cake was thoughtfully prepared and there was so much soul behind their smiles.
