Savour the Flavour, One Bite at a Time

Nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Rempah Indonesia lives up to its tagline, “A wonderful culinary journey of Indonesian Archipelago.” This charming restaurant takes diners on an authentic gastronomic adventure, showcasing the rich diversity of Indonesia’s cuisine.

From the moment you step inside, the warm ambiance, accented with traditional Indonesian decor, transports you to the islands of Java, Bali and Sumatra. The menu is a celebration of Indonesia’s vast culinary heritage, with each dish meticulously crafted to honor its origins.

We were able to sample some of their bestsellers, but there are tons more on offer.

The Nasi Goreng Special is more than just fried rice – it’s a culinary masterpiece that embodies the rich flavors of the Indonesian archipelago. The rice itself is perfectly seasoned with a medley of sweet soy sauce, garlic & shallots and coated evenly , creating a golden brown hue that hints at the dish’s depth. Topping the Nasi Goreng is a generous serving of succulent chicken satay, with creamy peanut sauce, adding an extra layer of nuttiness to the dish. A perfectly fried sunny side up egg crowns the rice, the runny yolk blending beautifully with each bite.

The Ayam Bakar Kalasan showcase the perfect harmony of traditional Javanese flavors. The grilled chicken is marinated in a rich blend of spices and coconut milk, which infuses it with a depth of flavor before it is grilled to golden perfection. Served alongside the chicken is a portion of fragrant steamed rice, fresh sambal, a block of tempeh and tumis kangkung. Each bite of Ayam Bakar Kalasan feels like a celebration of Indonesia’s culinary heritage. It is hearty, satisfying, and definitely packed with flavor.

The Konro Bakar Makassar is an absolute triumph for those who appreciate robust, smoky flavors and tender meat that melts in your mouth. The star of the dish is the grilled beef ribs, cooked to perfection with a beautiful charred exterior that locks in the juiciness of the beef. The rich bumbu (spice paste) glaze, caramelized during grilling, creates a sticky, flavorful crust that enhances every bite. Not in the photo though is the accompanying kuah konro, a rich and aromatic beef soup, infused with spices like coriander, nutmeg and cinnamon, served on the side & acts as the perfect dipping sauce or palate cleanser. Paired with the steamed rice or nasi uduk and a side of spicy sambal, this dish is as satisfying as it is flavorful.

The Tumis Kangkung, stir-fried water spinach is a staple Indonesian cuisine, and here it is perfectly cooked – tender yet retaining a slight crunch, ensuring a delightful texture with every bite. The dish is stir fried with a fragrant blend of garlic, shallots, chilies and shrimp paste (terasi), creating a savory and slightly spicy flavor profile that’s both comforting (totally reminds me of my childhood, as we Filipinos love our adobo or ginisang kangkong as well) and satisfying. Tumis Kangkung shines as a side dish, but its vibrant flavors are strong enough to stand on its own as a lighter meal paired with rice and sambal.

We finished off our hearty meal with a glass of Kopi Susu Gula Aren, an iced coffee drink made with rich espresso, blended in creamy milk and natural palm sugar which adds a deep caramel-like sweetness. This smooth and well-balanced beverage offers a perfect blend of bold coffee flavor and silky sweetness, making it a favorite among iced coffee lovers.

The attentive service, coupled with the authenticity of the dishes, makes every visit to Rempah Indonesia a memorable experience. Whether you’re new to Indonesian cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, this restaurant promises a delightful and flavorful journey, one bite at a time.