Mozaic Restaurant in Ubud, Bali, has been a culinary gem for over 20 years. Both of my children dined there on their honeymoons
16 and 18 years ago and could not stop raving about it. Naturally, I wondered if it still held its charm and reputation after all these years. During the pandemic, Mozaic seized the opportunity to remodel. Originally it was an outdoor venue in a garden, but it has transformed into a multi-sensory experience. Guests now enjoy welcome canapés and cocktails in the lounge/tasting room, dine in a new glass-walled, air-conditioned dining room, and savour the main course in the lush tropical gardens. For dessert, we returned to the cool comfort of the air-conditioned room.
For two decades, chef Chris Salans had been the creative force behind Mozaic and is now joined by chef Blake Thornley. Together, they craft a multi-course sensory journey, blending local ingredients with refined techniques and imaginative presentations. The menu celebrates Indonesian spices, ingredients, and seasonal produce with a strong emphasis on sustainability and zero-waste dishes. The restaurant’s design features a fresh green colour palette that complements the surrounding tropical vegetation, with natural wood finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows, stone floors, and driftwood light fixtures, adding to the contemporary elegance.
After enjoying our cocktails and canapés, we chose between the seasonal 6 or 8-course menu and the 6 or 8-course botanical menu. We selected one of each, allowing us to sample a wide array of dishes. The vegetarian menu was particularly impressive, showcasing creativity and variety. My only minor complaint was that not all dishes arrived hot enough, likely due to the distance from the kitchen to the dining areas. Nevertheless, the enthusiasm and passion of the servers were evident, greatly enhancing our dining experience.
Mozaic continued to be a true ambassador for Balinese cuisine, masterfully blending a medley of flavours with innovative techniques. Even after 20 years, it remains one of Bali’s top dining destinations, solidifying its reputation as a culinary leader.
Highly recommended.
Happy dining,
Shanea
07/25/2024
