A Culinary Journey at RM Balenong: Discovering Authentic Padang Cuisine in Kuta

RM BALENONG Masakan Padang Dan Nasi Padang, Kuta

Arkan

As I stepped into RM Balenong Kuta, located at Jl. Kuta Raya No. 46, Kuta, Bali, I was immediately enveloped by the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling Padang restaurant. The air was thick with the tantalizing aromas of spices and grilled fish, promising a culinary adventure that would take me deep into the heart of Indonesian cuisine.

The decor is simple yet inviting, with large cooking woks dominating the kitchen area, a testament to the generous portions they serve. While the cleanliness might not be up to five-star standards—yes, I did spot a few flies buzzing around—this is part of the charm of a local eatery. It’s a place where the focus is on the food, and trust me, the flavors are worth any minor inconveniences.

One of the standout dishes here is the Nasi Cincang Guru (Ramas), a complete meal that is a feast for the senses. The rice is fluffy and perfectly cooked, served alongside an array of rich, flavorful side dishes. The Nasi Kembung Bakar (Ramas) is another must-try, featuring grilled mackerel that is fresh and succulent, paired with a spicy sambal that packs a punch. And let’s not forget the Kerupuk Rambak/Kulit Padang, which adds a delightful crunch to your meal.

During my visit, I overheard a fellow diner raving about the rendang, claiming it was “top class.” Unfortunately, I arrived a bit late and found out they had sold out—an indication of just how popular this place is, even at 1 p.m. on a weekday! It’s open 24 hours, yet the demand for their dishes is so high that you might want to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

What struck me most was the unique flavor profile of their dishes compared to other Padang restaurants I’ve visited. One reviewer noted that the taste of Nasi Padang here is quite different from Sederhana or Pagi Sore, and I couldn’t agree more. The squid gulai was particularly amazing, bursting with flavors that danced on my palate.

With a food rating of 3.8/5.0 and service at 4.2/5.0, RM Balenong Kuta is a culinary gem that offers a genuine taste of Sumatra right in Bali. The prices are incredibly reasonable, with meals ranging from Rp25,000 to 50,000 per person, making it accessible for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this place is a must-visit to truly understand the rich tapestry of Indonesian culinary culture.

So, if you find yourself in Kuta, don’t miss out on RM Balenong. Just be prepared for a bit of a wait during peak hours, and remember to keep an eye out for their famous rendang—if you’re lucky, you might just snag a plate!

Raya

As I stepped into RM BALENONG Masakan Padang Dan Nasi Padang in Kuta, Bali, I was immediately enveloped by a wave of nostalgia. The vibrant colors of the dishes and the aromatic spices wafting through the air transported me back to my childhood, reminding me of my mother’s kitchen and the joyous family gatherings filled with laughter and love. This restaurant, open 24 hours a day, is a treasure trove of authentic Padang cuisine that beckons both locals and tourists alike.

However, my experience was a mixed bag. While some patrons raved about the rich flavors, describing the food as “delicious” and “one of the best Padang food in Bali,” others had a different tale to tell. One local friend had recommended I try the rendang, but to my dismay, the meat was tough, and the sauce lacked the depth of flavor I had anticipated. I paid 65,000 RP for a plate that included rice, two pieces of chicken, rendang, and a fried egg, and I couldn’t shake the feeling of disappointment. For tourists, I would advise caution; some have had experiences that left them feeling cheated.

Yet, amidst the critiques, there were glimmers of hope. A fellow diner suggested, “If it’s your first time, just try the rendang or grilled chicken with extra rendang spice.” This advice resonated with me, and I found solace in the fact that many had enjoyed their meals, praising the generous portions and the authentic taste. “The food is really good, and the service is friendly,” one review noted, reminding me that every experience can vary.

Despite the mixed reviews, I couldn’t help but feel a connection to this place. The warmth of the staff, even when they were caught up in their own world, and the vibrant atmosphere made it a memorable stop on my journey. Yes, there were moments of frustration, like the dirty spoon and the occasional rudeness from the staff, but the heart of RM BALENONG lies in its ability to evoke memories and emotions tied to home-cooked meals.

In reflection, RM BALENONG is more than just a restaurant; it’s a canvas painted with flavors and memories. It may not be perfect, but it touches the heart in ways that only food can. I left with a full stomach and a heart warmed by the essence of Padang cuisine, a reminder that sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination.

Menu List:

Dendeng Paru Lengkap Dendeng Paru Lengkap: Crispy beef lung, savory, and spicy delight.	IDR Rp 25,000 US $ 1.6 AUS $ 2.5 EURO € 1.5 CNY ¥ 11.3
Bakwan Sayur/ Ote Ote Guys Crispy vegetable fritters, savory and deliciously satisfying bites.	IDR Rp 5,000 US $ 0.4 AUS $ 0.5 EURO € 0.3 CNY ¥ 2.3
Tahu Isi Guys Stuffed tofu with savory fillings, a delightful snack.	IDR Rp 5,000 US $ 0.4 AUS $ 0.5 EURO € 0.3 CNY ¥ 2.3
GORENG IKAN TUNA BUMBU ,,, LENGKAP GAESSSS Crispy fish delight, seasoned perfectly for ultimate satisfaction.	IDR Rp 25,000 US $ 1.6 AUS $ 2.5 EURO € 1.5 CNY ¥ 11.3
NASI RENDANG LENGKAP GAES Fragrant rice served with rich, spicy beef stew.	IDR Rp 30,000 US $ 1.9 AUS $ 3 EURO € 1.8 CNY ¥ 13.5
NASI CINCANG GURU ( RAMAS) LENGKAP GAESSSS Savory rice dish with rich Padang spices and flavors.	IDR Rp 30,000 US $ 1.9 AUS $ 3 EURO € 1.8 CNY ¥ 13.5
NASI KIKIL GULAI (RAMAS) LENGKAP GAESSSS Savory rice dish with tender beef and rich spices.	IDR Rp 30,000 US $ 1.9 AUS $ 3 EURO € 1.8 CNY ¥ 13.5
NASI GULAI AYAM (RAMAS) LENGKAP GAESSSS Savory rice dish with rich, spicy chicken curry.	IDR Rp 30,000 US $ 1.9 AUS $ 3 EURO € 1.8 CNY ¥ 13.5
NASI AYAM BAKAR (RAMAS) LENGKAP GAESSSS Grilled chicken served with fragrant rice and spicy sauce.	IDR Rp 30,000 US $ 1.9 AUS $ 3 EURO € 1.8 CNY ¥ 13.5
NASI AYAM GORENG BUMBU (RAMAS ) LENGKAP GAESSSS Fried rice with spices, a flavorful Padang delight.	IDR Rp 30,000 US $ 1.9 AUS $ 3 EURO € 1.8 CNY ¥ 13.5
NASI AYAM BALADO GURU (RAMAS) LENGKAP GAESSSS Spicy rice dish with chicken, rich in Padang flavors.	IDR Rp 30,000 US $ 1.9 AUS $ 3 EURO € 1.8 CNY ¥ 13.5
NASI BELUT LADO IJAU JERUK NIPIS ( RAMAS ) Lengkap Gaessss Spicy rice dish with eel, lime, and green chili.	IDR Rp 30,000 US $ 1.9 AUS $ 3 EURO € 1.8 CNY ¥ 13.5