A Return to Tradition: The Story Behind the Residency
Chef Diana Widjojo, renowned for her work at the celebrated Hardena, is set to reintroduce her beloved Indonesian concept, Rice & Sambal, at Chef Joncarl Lachman’s Dankbaar on East Passyunk Avenue. Beginning in mid-March, the residency will run from Thursday through Saturday, promising an immersive dining experience that brings the rich flavors of Indonesia to Philadelphia.
Last summer, Chef Widjojo captivated diners’ hearts with a successful month-long pop-up at Dankbaar. Building on this success, she establishes a more permanent presence with an ongoing residency. The residency showcases an ever-evolving six-course prix fixe dinner, priced at $85 per person, available on Thursday and Friday evenings. Highlights include Siomai, Pepes Ikan, Bebek Madura, Tempe Bakar, and the dessert Pisang Ijo Makassar. For diners with dietary restrictions, vegan versions of the six-course menu are available upon request.
Rice & Sambal: An Evening of Indonesian Rijsttafel
Rice & Sambal’s culinary journey continues beyond the prix fixe menu. On Saturday evenings, guests can indulge in a family-style Rijsttafel service, a traditional Indonesian feast that celebrates the diverse flavors and dishes of the archipelago. Served in a bamboo basket lined with banana leaves and meant to be eaten by hand, the Rijsttafel experience is priced at $100 per person, with a BYO option available for a $5 corkage fee.
Complementing the exquisite food offerings, Rice & Sambal will feature a curated coffee selection, including Sumatra Coffee, Tong Tji, So Jennie Paris, and the rare Kopi Luwak. These selections promise to round out the dining experience with authentic Indonesian flavors.
Chef Diana Widjojo’s return to Dankbaar with Rice & Sambal celebrates Indonesian culture, cuisine, and community. Through her innovative menus and dedication to authentic flavors, she invites diners to embark on a culinary journey that transcends borders.
Reservations for Rice & Sambal at Dankbaar are highly recommended and can be made via Resy. Guests are encouraged to stay tuned for further details on hours of operation, upcoming events, and more.
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