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COMO Culinary Odyssey: Karangasem Unveiled

Join our fourth COMO Culinary Odyssey as we celebrate the culture of Karangasem. Experience the traditional Balinese family meal of megibung, in collaboration with Bali Asli Restaurant.

August 14th to September 30th 2025

Karangasem Unveiled

From August 14th to September 30th 2025, discover Karangasem's cultural soul through the tradition of megibung, a shared feast rooted in unity.

In partnership with Bali Asli Restaurant, this fourth edition of our year-long COMO Culinary Odyssey features authentic East Balinese cuisine and regionally inspired cocktails.

ABOUT THE KARANGASEM EDITION

Bali Asli: A Taste of the True Bali

Perched in the hills of Gelumpang village with sweeping views of Mount Agung, Bali Asli Restaurant is a culinary destination unlike any other. Built on the philosophy of authenticity asli means ‘genuine' in Indonesian the restaurant showcases traditional cooking techniques and locally sourced ingredients.

For this special collaboration, Bali Asli presents a full megibung experience: Krupuk and sambals, bamboo-steamed red rice, jackfruit curry, coconut curd parcels, and more. Each bite reflects the spirit of Karangasem.

sustainability efforts

What makes Bali Asli unique is its commitment to sustainability and community. Ingredients are foraged, fished, or farmed by locals. Every dish is a story of place, purpose and people, from fern tip salads plucked from nearby gullies to baby Balinese chicken chargrilled over coconut husks.

A soulful corner of East Bali

Karangasem, in East Bali, is a region of dramatic beauty, where sacred temples rise against the backdrop of Mount Agung and terraced fields meet the sea.

Known for its royal lineage and enduring traditions, Karangasem offers a deep cultural experience rooted in ceremony, community and connection to the land. Its cuisine reflects these values, with flavours drawn from foraged herbs, local spices and time-honoured techniques.

Karangasem in a Glass

Sips of the East

Savour an inspired collection of cocktails and mocktails crafted from the bounty of East Bali, curated exclusively for COMO Culinary Odyssey.

Rooted in the traditions and native botanicals of Karangasem, these signature creations are a tribute to the region's spirit and soul. From fruit grown in mountain orchards to ceremonial rice wine and home-distilled arak, each drink honours the land and its people.

Penelope Jane Williams

Guest Chef from Bali Asli

Penelope Jane Williams is the heart and soul behind Bali Asli. Born in England and raised in Sydney, Williams' culinary journey began with travels through Southeast Asia. After training at London's Savoy Hotel and honing her skills in Sydney's fine dining scene, she arrived in Bali as Executive Chef for Alila Hotels in 2007.

Her love for Balinese culture led her to open Bali Asli, a restaurant dedicated to real food, real people and real stories. Chef Williams is not just a chef, but also a storyteller, sustainability advocate and community builder. Her work has uplifted East Bali through educational programmes and partnerships that support local farmers, fishers and small businesses.