Not your average Italian restaurant, Sri Lanka property and inspired, the point of difference Balboni is unique south Asian fusion and dominant, which serves dishes upintriguing as Green Curry chicken tagliatelle, risotto with mushrooms Asian Tempura and Mango Tiramisu.
Balboni opened in May and this casual, contemporary restaurant is already a favorite with the local crowd. An open kitchen shows an abundance of fresh produce and bustle creates a lively atmosphere in the dining room. The restaurant floors of dark hardwood floors, low lighting, and shelves full of food product market, wine and oils. The large marble bar in front of the restaurant seemed to be a popular place for a drink after work. It is a buzzing and inviting space.
We decided to begin with a cocktail and I ordered the "LTB" meaning Lemon Tequila Beer. Wait, what? Unusual but also their most popular cocktail, this lemony concoction with a creamy head and a shot of tequila was the best way to start the weekend! My date had a great mojito fully loaded with mint and sugar cane. Regarding other drinks go, there is an extensive wine list that includes the usual international regions, and a good range of fruit smoothies and juice for healthier or younger clients.
The service was friendly and we simply followed their recommendations for food, all of which were also highlighted as recommended by a key from the menu. We also met the Sri Lankan chef came to our table and spoke passionately us about his style kitchen and methodology.
We started with 12 months Cured Parma Prosciutto Ham (Rp 60k) served with thin focaccia croutons and olive oil. Well presented on a wooden board, the ham was beautiful, perfectly complemented by the crispy croutons and dressed greens. Very delicious.
We also had the Panzanella salad (Rp 35k) as an appetizer which was exceptionally fresh salad of tomato, cucumber, black olives, onions and soft bread dressed in his own balsamic vinegar and olive oil Balboni . A very pretty flat, but I would say it was more appropriate as a pizza next door, rather than a starter.
For the main event, we were served their most popular pizza, chicken Devilled, which we really enjoyed. pizza dough house, spicy chicken marinated with spices from Sri Lanka and twice cooked, garnished with onions and peppers. We both agreed that we would order again this pizza. Nicely prices, too, to Rp 70k.
Finally, we shared the dessert signature Balboni, Durian Panna Cotta (Rp 45k). I did notify staff that we did not like durian and maybe they thought they could convert us ... Did not happen! An acquired taste to say the least, we found the durian too impressive. However, I can say that I enjoyed the texture of panna cotta and cinnamon crumble. But next time I would definitely stick to the tiramisu!
Overall, it was a pleasant evening. Balboni is a casual dining experience for those looking to try the cuisine that is a little different, or for casual cocktails and pizza with a group of friends. The menu also has a sharing option for three people serve salads and pasta, which I thought was a great concept.
Balboni management considering hosting monthly events, but this will not be a destination late night out of respect for apartment dwellers living above, which form a large part of the clientele.
Balboni
Jalan Casablanca 88, Jakarta 12870.
Balboni is located in Kota Kasablanca in Tower A Lobby, not in the mall.
Reservations are recommended, especially if you want to book the sofas outside.
You can book online on their www.balboniresto.com website or phone 02129568712.