Excellent Japanese Restaurant – Norii Ubud by Ini Vie Hospitality, Ubud, Indonesia Review

Review: Excellent Japanese Restaurant – Norii Ubud by Ini Vie Hospitality, Ubud, Indonesia

Getting There:

Norii Ubud by Ini Vie Hospitality is a delightful Japanese restaurant nestled in the cultural haven of Ubud, Indonesia. Located just off the main road, Jalan Raya Ubud, it’s fairly easy to reach by most modes of transport. If you’re staying in central Ubud, it’s a convenient walk or a quick scooter ride away. Parking is available but can be limited during peak hours, so arriving a bit earlier is advisable. For those who prefer a scenic approach, the route along the Campuhan Ridge Walk provides a picturesque start to your dining experience.

First Impressions:

As you enter Norii Ubud, you are immediately struck by the harmonious blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics with a touch of Balinese charm. The exterior is understated, with elegant wooden paneling and minimalist signage leading to a serene courtyard. The ambiance hinted at the culinary journey to come.

Ambiance:

Inside, the restaurant exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. The decor combines natural wood elements, soft lighting, and authentic Japanese artwork, creating a zen-like setting perfect for a relaxed meal. Seating options include cozy booths, larger communal tables for groups, and a sushi bar where you can watch skilled chefs at work. The background music—a mix of traditional Japanese tunes and soft jazz—enhances the tranquil vibe without being intrusive.

Service:

From the moment we arrived, the service at Norii Ubud was exceptional. The staff greeted us with warm smiles and were attentive without being overbearing. They were knowledgeable about the menu and made insightful recommendations based on our preferences. Our server, Andi, was particularly helpful, explaining the nuances of different dishes and ensuring our glasses were always filled with refreshing jasmine tea.

Food:

Now, onto the star of the show—the food. Here’s a breakdown of the dishes we tried:

• Sashimi Platter: The sashimi platter was a brilliant start, featuring fresh slices of salmon, tuna, and yellowtail. Each piece was pristinely cut and melted in the mouth, served with a robust soy sauce and a hint of wasabi that brought out the flavors beautifully.
• Tempura: The tempura selection included prawns, sweet potato, and eggplant, all encased in a light, crispy batter that didn’t feel greasy at all. Paired with a delicate dipping sauce, it was sheer perfection.
• Norii Special Roll: A must-try item, the Norii Special Roll combined fresh crab, avocado, and cucumber, topped with a spicy tuna mix and drizzled with a tangy mayo. The different textures and flavors created an explosion in the mouth.
• Ramen: The Tonkotsu Ramen was comforting and rich, with a creamy broth simmered to perfection. The noodles were firm, the pork chashu tender, and the soft-boiled egg added an extra layer of umami.
• Dessert: Finally, the Mochi Ice Cream desserts were a delightful end to our meal, with flavors ranging from matcha to black sesame, each bite being a sweet, chewy treat.

Final Thoughts:

Norii Ubud by Ini Vie Hospitality offers an exquisite dining experience that blends top-notch Japanese cuisine with Indonesian hospitality. The quality of the food, the ambiance, and the exemplary service all harmonize to create a meal well worth indulging in. It’s not the cheapest spot in Ubud, but for the quality and experience offered, it’s good value. I’d definitely recommend it to friends looking for an impressive culinary outing in Ubud.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 Stars)

Treat yourself to a visit here—you won’t regret it!