Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Redefines Bali’s Culinary Scene

As sustainability continues to be top-of-mind for travelers in 2025, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ubud, Bali has unveiled its new fine dining concept, “Inspired by Nature, From Root to Leaf,” at their restaurant Kubu. Led by Executive Sous Chef Eka Sunarya, the new philosophy celebrates the wild flavors of the island with ingredients sourced from within 60 miles, ensuring freshness and honoring each component from root to leaf.

Along with the new concept at Kubu, Mandapa offers foodie travelers opportunities to enjoy immersive activities in the local community. For those looking to plan their 2025 adventures, below is the property’s curated selection of experiences highlighting Bali’s natural flavors:

• Visit a Local Market: Opening early in the morning, travelers can start their day by exploring the market in the heart of Ubud, offering a unique opportunity to experience Balinese daily life and enjoy fresh, flavorful ingredients. Visitors can also discover the island’s unique vegetables and spices, as well as the vibrant elements used in traditional morning blessings.

• Cook from Scratch: Guests can embark on Mandapa’s "Vintage, Village, Voyage” Volkswagen experience to explore Ubud’s surroundings and enjoy a Balinese cooking class. This adventure in a classic VW181 convertible takes guests to Pesalakan village to explore traditional weaving and observe local blacksmiths— a full dive into the traditional culture.The journey ends with a cooking class where participants prepare and savor their own local dishes.

• Dine at Kubu: Travelers can end their day by experiencing Kubu’s new concept, “Inspired by Nature, From Root to Leaf,” that immerses diners in Balinese flavors and traditions, transforming often-overlooked local ingredients into exquisite culinary creations. Inspired by Chef Eka’s upbringing in Bali’s Buahan village, the menu reimagines local ingredients with a sustainable approach to each dish, telling the story of the island’s diverse ecosystems through place-based community sourcing and zero-waste practices. Signature dishes include Tabanan Braised Beans, Plaga Royal Galia Melon with air-dried beef, and Bali Heritage Pig. Kubu’s beverage program is equally inventive, featuring craft cocktails made with local spirits, for aged botanicals, and incorporating house-made ferments and infusions. Further, Kubu invites guests to participate in tours of the on-site gardens and discussions on traditional and modern farming practices.

Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is the third resort in the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Reserve collection. Located in Bali's cultural and spiritual heart of Ubud where the lush jungle meets the Ayung River, Mandapa is an exclusive journey inside an indigenous Balinese village, providing a sensory journey to wellness and nature. Mandapa offers 35 suites, 25 private pool villas, four unique dining concepts, including exclusive dining beyond experiences within the Reserve, and a restorative Spa and fitness center. Designed as a sanctuary to relax one's mind, body, and soul, Mandapa offers individually tailored spiritual, wellness, and health programs as well as activities to suit travelers of all ages, such as Mandapa Camp, along with the personalized attention of a dedicated Patih or butler.