The name of this well-known Indonesian restaurant chain comes from Sundanese words synonymous with a lakeside meeting point. As the name suggests, the restaurant offers a unique Indonesian culinary experience amidst picturesque surroundings. On the Island of the Gods, Talaga Sampireun Bali opened in Tuban in December 2023, providing an immersive dining experience in a serene and well-designed landscape.
STORY BY Iman Hidajat | PHOTOS BY Indra Wiras
As the latest addition to the chain and the first location outside Java, Talaga Sampireun Bali diverges from the standard design of individual series ‘saung.’ In Bali, the design creates a storyline where customers can imagine a rural Indonesian village next to a body of water. With this slightly different concept compared to its sister restaurants in Java, the Bali chain aims to offer a more integrated dining experience.
Kelvin Thengono from K-Thengono Design Studio explains that the narrative begins with a meandering river, which creates spacious dining areas along its curves. “Imagine the open-air saung settled along the curvature of the river like a row of houses in a riverside village.” The design features leaf-like roofs on each saung, creating a unique character not found in any other Talaga Sampireun branch. The restaurant’s natural ventilation provides a refreshing atmosphere even under the tropical island sun.
Upon arriving at Talaga Sampireun Bali, guests immediately feel such an engaging experience. “An elevated rooftop welcomes the guests, but as they walk through the pathway to the dining areas, the height gradually changes, creating a sense of welcome,” Kelvin further said. The clean lines of contemporary steel structures contrast with a textural symphony created by locally sourced materials like red brick, teak, and brass. Decorative motifs crafted by regional artists from rattan highlight the rich craft heritage of the area whilst lending a sense of human warmth. “Come in the early evening when dusk starts to fall, and the lights are turned on, creating reflections on the water; the atmosphere completely transforms from daylight,” he continued.
What sets Talaga Sampireun apart is its focus on delivering meals and providing an immersive dining experience. Dining in traditional huts by the lake, guests are enveloped in a tranquil ambiance enhanced by gentle breezes and the soothing sounds of water. The chain’s core business revolves around selling both the dining and design experience, hence stimulating all five senses. The aroma and flavour of this restaurant’s famous cuisine entice the senses, whilst singing songbirds enhance the lake’s tranquil view.
The menu boasts various authentic Indonesian dishes, including gurame fish, traditional fried chicken, satay, soups, live seafood, and sambal varieties. This diverse selection caters to local patrons seeking a taste of home and international visitors eager to explore Indonesia’s rich culinary heritage.
The Talaga Sampireun Bali outlet is more than just a restaurant. The combination of nature, tradition, and modern design upholds the brand’s vision. This social place invites visitors to immerse themselves in an authentically Indonesian experience, regardless of where they sit and enjoy the food service.
Project Data
TALAGA SAMPIREUN BALI
Jl. Kediri
Tuban, Kuta
Bali 80361 +62361959908 talagasampireun.com @talagasampireun
Area
Built area: 9.455 sqm
Seating Capacity
Restaurant: 309 pax
Private room: 20 seats
Architecture Design Consultant: K-Thengono Design Studio
Lead Architect: Kelvin Thengono
Design Team: Natashia Angelina Theodora Sianturi, Kevin Chandra, Fachrudin Faruq
Interior Design: Sheren Pricillia Sanusi
Civil & Structural Consultant: PT Allegra Mitra Perkasa
Mechanical & Electrical Consultant: PT Allegra Mitra Perkasa
General Contractor: PT Allegra Mitra Perkasa
Quantity Surveyor: Nuansa Triutama Jaya
Lighting Consultant: Erreluce
Interior Contractor: PT Funisia Perkasa Loista Indonesia