A Glimpse of Indonesia: Bali Dewata Cafe at Obiyamachi 

By Muhammad Taufiqurrahman

The Indonesian Exchange Students and Kochi University students successfully finished volunteer duties as interpreters at Melody Kimono Shop in Obiyamachi, a bustling shopping arcade Downtown. Afterward, all the students assertively headed to Bali Dewata café, a nearby Indonesian restaurant, and arrived together after a fifteen minutes walk.   

“Good afternoon, is this café open now?” asked Indonesian students in English.      

“Masnya Orang Indonesia ya ? Are you Indonesian?” Bli Kadek Ari replied. “We just opened a few minutes ago; you may speak English, Japanese, Indonesian, or Balinese to me.   

Dewata Bali Café, established on March 25, 2023, was a special birthday gift for the owner’s son with a vision to introduce Balinese culture and traditional design to the Japanese community, creating an immersive experience for customers.     

“We are trying to provide authentic Indonesian café cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere,” Bli Kadek Ari explained.    

Starting a business in Kochi, Japan was a challenging feat. It took several months to complete the process and to ensure that all necessary documents, including building permits, tax requirements, and food safety tests, were to guarantee the safety and satisfaction of customers.    

“We required the assistance of two lawyers to handle each document,” Anita Sary explained.    

Bali Dewata Café is an essential hub for the Indonesian community in Kochi Prefecture, fostering a strong sense of togetherness among its members.      

“There are approximately 291 (as of July 14, 2023) members in the Indonesians residing in Kochi Prefecture community in the What Apps group,” Anita Sary explained.     

Bali Dewata café is vital in connecting individuals and providing them with a familiar gathering spot for Indonesian workers and students after daily activities, creating a lively atmosphere and fulfilling the longing of Indonesian expatriates living in Kochi.     

For Indonesian expats living in Kochi, finding food that suits their taste buds may require assistance.    

“Japanese cuisine may not be their preferred choice as it often includes raw fish delicacies like sushi and sashimi,” Bli Kadek Ari added. Moreover, Japanese food is generally less spicy, which could challenge Indonesian expats.     

In Kochi city, Japan, Muslims might have difficulty locating halal food and prayer rooms due to the small Muslim community.     

“Bali Dewata café has made arrangements to cater to these needs” Bli Kadek Ari explained “by offering a dedicated prayer room on the 2nd floor, equipped with necessary tools for prayer, along with serving halal food options in the café to navigate their faiths as Muslim”. 

But serving delicious and authentic food is definitely the focus of the pair.    

“Step into Bali Dewata Café,” Anita Sary explained, “and you will be transported to the enchanting world of Indonesian culture.”      

“I import highly potent herbs and spices from Indonesia,” Bli Kadek Ari explained. “We want to ensure authenticity and a unique flavor in every bite”.  

“We prepare every dish carefully and attentively,” Anita Sary explained, “from mouthwatering main courses such as Nasi Goreng and Rendang Beef to delicious desserts.” 

Bali Dewata Café caters to Indonesian food enthusiasts, adventurous foodies seeking new flavors, or curious about Indonesian culture.    

” I hope that the customers can enjoy the authentic tastes of Indonesia, Bli Kadek Ari explained,” forge new connections, and create lasting memories. Most importantly, Indonesians are known for being friendly and socially active in talking to each other.     

“Our culture highlights this through “Nongkrong,” Anita Sary explained, which involves gathering with friends, family, or acquaintances to chat about anything and everything. Bali Dewata Cafe is a destination that embraces diversity and welcomes visitors from all walks of life. Finally, yet importantly, our conversations transcend nationality, religion, and ethnicity and can occur in Japanese, English, or Indonesian. We strive to foster cultural exchange and a strong sense of community”.    

Bali Dewata Café welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds to participate in engaging and inclusive conversations.   

“Bali Dewata Café is best enjoyed with family, friends, partners, or significant others due to Indonesian culture’s strong sense of brotherhood.” Bli Kadek Ari explained. “However, solo travelers will also find it comfortable as Indonesians are generally open to meeting new people. An Indonesian proverb, “Tak Kenal, Maka Tak Sayang, Tak Kenal, Maka Tak Cinta,” highlights the significance of understanding each other’s personalities before developing a solid relationship.”     

The owners hope Bali Dewata café is not just a dining destination but a portal to experiencing the rich tapestry of Indonesian culture.    

“Then, while savoring the flavors of Indonesia, customers can also enjoy a range of Indonesian beverages, Anita Sary explained. “Including the renowned Coffee Luwak Sachet, Wedang Jahe Sachet, and Coffee Kapal Api Sachet. The café offers Indonesian snacks like Shrimp or Fish crackers (Kerupuk) and Mie Gelas (Instant Noodles), enhancing the immersive experience”.    

“I was impressed by the Japanese professor’s fluency and confidence in speaking Indonesian, Anita Sary explained, “which I noticed while he was sitting on the corner. I witnessed someone who has tried to learn a new language and can effortlessly speak it is always inspiring”.    

“Iya, saya dulu pernah Kuliah di Jurusan Kedoteran Hewan IPB University.”  Japanese Professor from Ehime Prefecture explained. “Yes, I studied in the Department of Veterinary Medicine at IPB University. For me, Visiting Bali Dewata Café brings back memories of the initial struggle to adapt to the spicy cuisine of Indonesia. “I survived on watermelon for the first month, but eventually, I fell in love with Indonesian food and now miss it dearly.”     

The owners aim to create a welcoming environment for all and promote the experience of Indonesian culture through its cuisine.   

“I believe that foreign residents who have had the opportunity to witness the beauty of Indonesia should be able to relive their memories through the exploration of authentic Indonesian cuisine,” Anita Sary explained. “There is an English Professor from Kochi University seated on the front terrace with his wife.”    

The English Professor explained that the Bali Dewata café transported back to fabulous adventures in Indonesia, from adrenaline-fueled surf sessions in Bali to exploring the cultural wonders of Jogjakarta.   

“I was blown away by how tasty everything was – I relived the memories again.” Said Angelo, an English Professor from Kochi University”.