Exquisite Taste

The Library

at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

- (mandapares­erve.com)

The Library is probably unlike bars you've been to before. Combining a bar and lounge, and incorporat­ing creative mixology and authentic Indonesian touches, The Library is a serene sanctuary where guests are invited to enjoy the curated books and refreshmen­ts. Part of the lush and lavish Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The Library is idyllicall­y ensconced by the resort's main swimming pool – boasting soothing views of the resort's working rice field and the surroundin­g greenery.

The cocktail experience on offer at The Library is also a unique one, highlighti­ng authentic Indonesian flavours and ingredient­s in its signature Explore The Archipelag­o menu. Offering six curated cocktails inspired by Indonesia's six main islands, the Explore The Archipelag­o menu is made to be enjoyed leisurely – take your time, take a sip and revel in the rich flavours of all six tipples.

If you can't go through all six, try some of the highlights, like the refreshing Nanas Bali concocted from pineapple, coriander seed, lemongrass, chilli, galangal and tequila.

The Kelapa Maluku is a sultry option using dark rum that has been aged in coconut as the base, topped with kaffir lime leaf, lemongrass, galangal and palm sugar. Lush fruity flavours can be found in Sirih Papua, with betel leaf, banana liqueur, dry sherry and dark rum. Explore The Archipelag­o is served daily from 5.30pm to 7pm.

Just in case you're not in the mood for alcoholic libations yet – although we can't see why not – The Library also offers Mandapa Dulang, an opulent signature afternoon tea package that also incorporat­es a touch of Indonesia. The afternoon tea includes a glass of loloh – a Balinese herbal drink – and Indonesian savoury bites like satay.

 ??  ??
 ??  ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Indonesia