A Symphony of Spices

In the kitchens at Mulia Bali, the fragrant aromas of cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom fill the air, carrying echoes of Indonesia’s rich heritage. These scents tell the story of the archipelago’s legendary spice trade—when these islands were the epicentre of the world’s fascination, thanks to the precious spices cultivated here.

Long before travellers set foot on Bali’s shores, Indonesia was a central player in the global spice trade. Cloves, nutmeg, and mace, once more valuable than gold, were harvested exclusively in the remote Banda Islands. This treasure trove drew explorers, traders, and colonisers from across the world. Dutch, Portuguese, and British fleets navigated the perilous journey to the East Indies, seeking the aromatic bounty that would redefine culinary traditions across Europe, Asia, and beyond.

The Lasting Legacy of the Spice Trade
‍With the arrival of traders and colonisers came culinary influences from distant lands, each adding a new dimension to Indonesia’s gastronomic identity. Over time, local kitchens became vibrant centres of innovation, blending native ingredients with global techniques. Iconic dishes like Rendang, with its slow-simmered beef in coconut milk and spices, embody the balance of local and foreign influences that define Indonesian cuisine.

A Celebration of Spices at Mulia Bali
At Mulia Bali, this vibrant heritage comes to life across diverse dining experiences. Enter any signature restaurant, and it feels as though you’re embarking on a culinary journey through history, where each dish honours tradition while embracing global flavours.

At Table8, our Chinese speciality restaurant, the use of spices like star anise and Szechuan peppercorn connects the ancient spice routes to Balinese flavours. The Black Pepper Beef, for instance, exemplifies the harmonious blend of bold, aromatic spices with local tastes, resulting in a flavour that is both comforting and intriguing.

The beachfront Soleil, Mulia Bali’s Mediterranean and Pan-Asian-inspired restaurant, offers spices as a central element in a selection of iconic regional dishes. From the aromatic Vietnamese Pho Dac Biet to the flavourful Indonesian Soto Lamongan and Sop Buntut, each dish captures the essence of Asia’s diverse culinary heritage. Mediterranean options on the à la carte menu and Sunday Brunch feature subtle hints of spice in succulent roasts and rich pasta dishes. Dining at Soleil is a journey through the spice routes of Asia and beyond, where each plate celebrates cultural heritage and the creative mastery of Mulia Bali’s chefs.

A Global Melting Pot of Flavours
‍The celebration of spices extends to Edogin, our Japanese restaurant, where the menu highlights the delicate yet impactful use of seasonings. Curry powder, which has become a part of everyday Japanese cuisine, also features in our offerings, exemplifying the evolving global influence of spices.

For a true showcase of international flavours, The Cafe presents an impressive array of seven culinary theatres, each bringing authentic dishes from regions renowned for their spice traditions. Indonesia, India, Thailand, Korea, Japan, and the West are each represented, with every theatre highlighting the unique spices and seasonings that define its regional dishes. From Indonesian satay with a rich peanut sauce to the aromatic spices in Indian curries, each station at The Cafe offers an immersive experience in global cuisine.

And one of the finest tributes to this marriage of cultures is the Lapis Legit or Spekkoek—a layered cake introduced during Dutch colonial times. Meticulously baked with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom, each bite pays homage to Indonesia’s history and the legacy of the spice trade, connecting the past to the present.

A Cultural Tribute in Every Bite
‍Dining at Mulia Bali is more than a culinary experience; it’s a journey through Indonesia’s cultural legacy. Here, spices do more than enhance flavour—they tell stories and honour centuries of heritage. The curated menus and subtle nods to Balinese traditions in the design of each restaurant reflect Mulia Bali’s dedication to preserving and celebrating this history.

In a world where flavours can often become homogenised, Mulia Bali stands as a beacon of authenticity, honouring the intricate dance of spices that have shaped its past and continue to inspire its present. Each dish seasoned with a blend of local and global spices, or a cocktail infused with ginger, pays tribute to this legacy, allowing guests to savour a taste of history with every bite and sip.