Mamaka by Ovolo is proud to introduce its newest culinary star, Chef Anuj Kumar Ray, who is set to redefine Indian cuisine with a fresh and bold approach while honoring the traditions and flavors of his heritage. Hailing from the picturesque city of Jabalpur, India, where the Narmada River flows and riverside cooking was his playground, Chef Anuj is bringing his passion and innovative culinary flair to the vibrant food scene at Mamaka.
A Journey Rooted in Tradition and Passion
Chef Anuj’s love for cooking began as a teenager, where he would gather friends for riverside feasts cooked over a chulha-style brick stove. The smoky flavors of his homemade curries and kebabs, set against the stunning river backdrop, sparked what would become a lifelong obsession with the art of food. From these humble beginnings, Chef Anuj’s culinary journey has taken him to the heights of professional kitchens, where his focus on blending traditional Indian flavors with innovative techniques has become his signature.
At Mamaka by Ovolo, Chef Anuj’s mission is to take Indian cuisine to new heights—infusing contemporary creativity into each dish without losing the essence of Indian food’s rich heritage. One of his standout features will be crafting house-made spice blends, such as garam masala, chaat masala, and chai masala, ensuring every dish bursts with the authentic flavors of India.
Signature Dishes and Local Favorites
Chef Anuj’s menu features a mix of innovative dishes and beloved classics, with a special focus on bold flavors and regional inspirations. Guests can indulge in Poha, a traditional Indian breakfast dish from Indore, known for its light yet flavorful profile. Another highlight is the butter-fried curry leaf prawns, inspired by the coastal flavors of South India, delivering a fresh and aromatic experience.
The resort’s signature makhani masala, featured in iconic dishes like butter chicken and dal makhani, draws inspiration from the rich, comforting flavors of North India. The dal makhani is traditionally slow-cooked for 24 hours to deepen its flavors and offer an authentic, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Street Food Inspirations and Regional Flavors
Chef Anuj also brings the vibrant flavors of Indian street food to Mamaka’s menu. Guests can savor aloo chaat, a tangy and spicy street-style snack that evokes the bustling energy of Jaipur, or enjoy the crispy, flavorful samosas, inspired by the heart of central India.
A New Era of Indian Dining in Bali
Joel Bartlett, General Manager of Mamaka by Ovolo, shared his excitement about Chef Anuj’s arrival: “We’re thrilled to welcome Chef Anuj to the Mamaka family. His deep passion for Indian cuisine and innovative approach are unmatched, and we’re confident that he will create an unforgettable dining experience for our guests.”
Chef Anuj himself added, “After a decade of honing my craft, I’m excited to bring a fresh perspective to Indian cuisine in Bali. My aim is to elevate the flavors and showcase the true essence of India while adding a unique twist to every dish. Get ready to be amazed as I bring the heat to Kuta’s culinary scene.”
With Chef Anuj at the helm, Mamaka by Ovolo promises an exceptional dining experience, where every dish is a journey through the diverse and rich landscape of Indian cuisine, from traditional classics to inventive new creations.
