Blog

Celebrating 29th Anniversary of Malaka Spice

Malaka Spice Unveils “Tales of Nusantara” – a New Indonesian Menu Inspired by the Islands, in Collaboration with the Indonesian Consulate-General in Mumbai

At Malaka Spice, every menu begins with a journey.

For nearly three decades, the restaurant has travelled across Southeast Asia, exploring its streets, markets, homes, and kitchens, and bringing those experiences back to the table in Pune. Its menus continue to evolve with these journeys, shaped by seasons, research, and lived experiences. The latest chapter, Tales of Nusantara, is inspired by Indonesia.

This menu is the outcome of an immersive research trip undertaken by the founding family, Praful, Ilvika, and Ilisha Chandawarkar. Travelling across Indonesia, they experienced its food culture firsthand, from bustling street markets and humble warungs to contemporary cafés and regional kitchens, gathering stories, flavours, and perspectives along the way.

Developed in collaboration with the Indonesian Consulate-General in Mumbai, the menu celebrates the diversity of Indonesia’s many islands. Each region brings its own identity, from the bold, spice-forward Sate Maranggi from West Java to the coconut-rich comfort of Mie Laksa from Sumatra.

Research remains central to Malaka Spice’s philosophy of ‘Inspired Not Imitated’. The team invests time in understanding not just ingredients and techniques, but also the culture and context behind each dish. Tales of Nusantara reflects this approach, where traditional flavours are thoughtfully interpreted in a way that feels true to both the original inspiration and the Malaka Spice table.

The first part of this wildly exciting deep dive into the Indonesian Archipelago is a collaboration with Chef Matius Faisal Martadinata, from Surabaya who runs a reputed restaurant called Steak Lab.

The menu is curated by Chef Tius along with the Malaka Spice culinary team, the menu features dishes such as Dadar Jagung (Javanese corn fritters), Risoles Ragout (Dutch-Indonesian crepes with chicken ragout), and Sate Maranggi (Sundanese spiced lamb satay). Asinan Sayur (tangy Betawi pickled vegetables) and Karedok (fresh vegetables with peanut dressing). Nasi Goreng Sambal Ijo (green chilli fried rice with prawns), Mie Laksa (coconut noodle broth), Ayam Geprek (smashed fried chicken with sambal), Bebek Goreng Kremes (crispy duck), and Nasi Kuning with Soto Ayam. Kue Lumpur (soft custard-like pancake with jaggery ice cream) and Es Dawet (cendol with coconut and palm sugar, reimagined as a sorbet).

“It is our sincere pleasure to present Tales of Nusantara, a culinary journey inspired by the rich diversity, heritage, and delicate flavours of Indonesia. Each dish in this menu reflects a story from our archipelago, where tradition and creativity are gently woven together in harmony. Through this experience, we hope to bring Indonesia a little closer to you, not only through its flavors, but also through the warmth, culture, and spirit that live within our people. May each taste offer a glimpse into the beauty of our culinary traditions and help nurture the enduring friendship between Indonesia and India. We wish you a truly pleasant and memorable dining experience.” said Eddy Wardoyo from Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in Mumbai

“Our travels through Indonesia were incredibly inspiring,” said Praful Chandawarkar. “Each island had something unique to offer in terms of ingredients and flavours. This menu is our tribute to those experiences and to the warmth of Indonesian hospitality.”

The collaboration with the Indonesian Consulate-General in Mumbai further strengthens the cultural exchange at the heart of this initiative, bringing deeper authenticity and insight into Indonesian cuisine.

Tales of Nusantara is now being served at Malaka Spice.