Nampu brings all the things we love about Japan – the umami, the delicate details, the unmistakeable charm – to Nusa Dua, Bali.
Any foodie in Bali with a penchant for Japanese fare – or Japanese aesthetics, for that matter – should be familiar with Nampu by now. And if you’re not, you should be. As one of the stellar F&B outlets at the lush and lavish Grand Hyatt Bali, Nampu’s reputation as one of the leading Japanese restaurants on the island has stood the test of time.
From the moment you walk along the path that leads you the restaurant, you can see the Japanese-style garden, evoking a zen ambience. Step into the intimate venue and find charming Japanese lanterns and interior details that entice you to come in and stay longer. Inspired by a Japanese country inn, the design transports you to the land of the rising sun, right here in Bali.
The dining area at Nampu is expansive and elaborate, but it still manages to feel cosy and comfortable. Diners can choose from three dining sections. Teppanyaki enthusiasts will not want to miss the fiery action by the teppanyaki bar. Grab a spot at one of the four teppanyaki tables, each surrounding the centrepiece pan-grill where the chefs do their magic.
To really bask in the Japanese country inn feel, the main dining room is always a great choice – offering a variety of seating; regular seating by the sushi bar, and a tatami-style arrangement. Speaking of tatami, Nampu also opens the doors to its three private tatami rooms if you’re looking for more privacy.
Nampu is truly Japanese as far as the eye can see, but how about the flavours? Led by Japanese Chef Shozo Yoshioka – known as Yoshi-san, Nampu offers nothing but high-quality, authentic Japanese cuisine. Yoshi is known for his habit of visiting the local fish market at Jimbaran Bay every day to make sure he gets his hands on the freshest products, and also as part of Grand Hyatt’s sustainable initiatives.
Considering the variety of delectably delightful dishes being offered here, you should take your time while experiencing Nampu. Choose from the appetiser and soup/steam sections of the menu to kick off the evening – maybe the warm kani salad with crispy softshell crab, the wagyu karubi salad, or chawan mushi (steamed egg custard with prawn, chicken, fish and mushroom)? Of course, any Japanese dining experience isn’t complete without a sip of miso soup at the beginning.
From here on out, the possibilities are endless; from charcoal grilled dishes, hot pots and grilled skewers, to deep-fried dishes, sushi and sashimi selections, noodles and rice bowls. One thing is for sure, you can’t leave Nampu without trying its finest sashimi selection. And why choose one if you can have six? Opt for the sashimi moriawase, comprising salmon, tuna, tuna belly, garoupa, red snapper, mackerel and prawn – the fish can vary, depending on the freshest catch of the day.
Don’t rush just yet, as Nampu’s dessert selection is one to behold, filled with contemporary treats, like fresh lemongrass crème brûlée and peanut butter mousse. A new crowd favourite is the green tea mousse with sesame granola on top.
Nampu
Grand Hyatt Bali
ITDC, Nusa Dua
Bali 80363, Indonesia
T: (+62) 361771234
Asia Dreams February – April 2020
