In a lot of ways, Bali is the embodiment of la dolce vita – sand, surf, wellness and super fine weather. That life gets even sweeter too when you add on a heaping pile of Italian delights. And for that reason, we’re pretty excited to try out MAURI, a recent addition to the Seminyak food scene.
The Concept
MAURI is named for its Executive Chef-Owner, Maurizio Bombini who spent eight years perfecting his craft at Bvlgari and Ritz Carlton Mandapa Resorts (so you know he’s really good). The restaurant is a joint venture with restauranteur Luigi Amorotti, the creator of Canggu’s Pizza Fabbrica. With roots in the coastal Italian town of Puglia, the two set out to create a dining experience celebrating the culture, food and beauty of their hometown.
The Food
The food at MAURI is all about contemporary Italian cuisine with traditional options inspired by the chef’s Pugliese origins. The menu provides two options – an a la carte selection and a seasonal tasting menu. There is also an intimate five seat chef counter for private tastings, as well as a separate Bar & Lounge on the restaurant’s mezzanine level where small bites and cocktails are served.
We love the fact that most of the ingredients used at MAURI come from the restaurant’s hydroponic rooftop garden. What cannot be plucked from the roof is still all local. MAURI collaborates with local Balinese farmers to ensure conscious cuisine that understands the seasonality of its ingredients.
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The Design
Bali-based firm Ushers by Design brought MAURI to life. Furnished and created with the chef’s hometown in mind, Puglia’s influence is apparent from the moment you first spot its stucco facade – reminiscent of the town’s traditional architecture.
Within the two-story space, you’ll find a stunning array of trees, a grand staircase, a giant skylight, roped railings, a ceramic cactus leaf art installation and pendant lamps made of dried chilis.
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Who it’s for
Designed to be an intimate space – the restaurant only seats 40 people – MAURI is ideal for couples and small groups of friends.
We imagine these small groups will never lack for conversation either. The glass-enclosed kitchen allows guests to see exactly what the chefs are doing – perfect for a running commentary.
Hungry?
Address: Jl. Petitenget No.100, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Contact: reservations@mauri-restaurant.com or +62 817 776 177.
Opening hours: Seven days a week from 6:30 PM to Midnight
Website: www.mauri-restaurant.com