A simple wish and vision to get people to give more appreciation to local Indonesian dishes by presenting them in a classy setting has sparked the spirit of Ninik Dyahningrum to create a pretty and comfortable Indonesian fusion restaurant named Menur Bistro. Patience and hard work are two virtues that this humble lady from Solo keeps with her at all times.
PHOTOS BY Mochamad Ramadan
Located in Ahmad Yani road, one of the main roads in Semarang, and adjacent to Simpang Lima, Menur Bistro offers 100 seats which are split into three areas: outdoor, indoor and a private area that is located inside the building. The restaurant is located next to the newly opened Holiday Inn Express in the capital city of Central Java. In fact it stands right beside the hotel’s main entrance.
One of the unique traits of the bistro which was opened in October 2013 is the name. Menur is a flower which is close to extinction and probably can only be found in Central Java. It is white like a jasmine but with far more blooms and more petals, especially during summer. The beauty of the flower is the inspiration behind the restaurant’s name and the flower’s illustration and symbolism are used as ornaments in every corner of the restaurant.
The bistro has several crowning points that makes it a favourite eatery and hangout place of many people. At the front of the restaurant are neatly arranged rows of sofas and chairs for visitors who want to enjoy their meals while smoking. The entrance is ornamented with leaves and trees in light green hues supporting the theme of the bistro’s outdoor area. Entering the restaurant, we can see a totally different ambiance as the natural concept requested by the owner is combined with shades of earthy brown and leafy green. This is a unique characteristic of the bistro as there are two different ambiances inside one dining area: one is vibrant and energetic while the other one is soft and romantic.
Although in the beginning the design concept characterised the restaurant as a family eatery, in reality Menur Bistro fits the younger crowd just fine. The curved ceiling which is mimicked in the flooring pattern, lively menu selections showcased above the counter at the end of the restaurant, placement of the bar stools, attractive lighting scheme as well as the addition of a small stage for live music performances have made the restaurant a popular spot for young people.
Its location next to a business hotel prompts the restaurant to also provide a private room that can accommodate twelve to fourteen people to dine and have a meeting. The room is equipped with a presentation screen and a projector.
Another private area beside it can be used by a small family or colleagues to celebrate special events.
The name Menur, which has a traditional ring to it, is also translated in the array of dishes offered in the bistro. Local Indonesian treats take center stage although there are also several western dishes to suit its fusion concept. Culinary master and businessperson Philip Wong S. Soeharto, who is a partner in the bistro, puts impeccable taste and refined presentation on the top of the list, and makes sure each dish reflects this notion. Everything is served in a stylish manner befitting a luxurious fine dining establishment. Among the highlights of the menu are the tastefully arranged ‘Gado-Gado’, the delightful ‘Nasi Ayam Bumbal’ and the exotic ‘Floranade’, all of which are garnished exquisitely. The beautiful presentation and superb taste of the dishes complement the comfortable ambiance, making the bistro, which is open 24 hours a day, a comfortable hangout destination for everyone.