Bali, a paradise on Earth where the enchanting beauty of the landscape is matched only by the rich, diverse flavors one may find. Seminyak, famed for its sunsets, is renowned for its vibrant food culture. One particular jewel in the crown of the Seminyak culinary scene is the newly reopened FED by Made.
Overlooking the iridescent Indian Ocean, FED by Made emerged from its hibernation in 2023 by welcoming walk-ins and added an à la carte menu to its offering. A vivid and evolving homage to the multi-sensory essence of food, FED by Made is an establishment where each dish tells a story, ensuring a journey of flavors and textures for crusading taste buds.
Languishing through the veils of sorrow in August 2023, nursing a broken heart, I sought refuge in the holistic therapy of food. Looking for more than just a meal, I decided FED by Made was the place where culinary healing could commence.
The restaurant is famously committed to the philosophy of food as an art, not just a necessity. Stepping inside this Seminyak mecca, I was greeted by a warm ambiance and pleasing décor that effectively combined modern design with traditional Indonesian touches. A quick glance at the à la carte menu revealed an eclectic mix of international cuisine, influenced by Balinese cooking techniques and supplemented with locally sourced fresh ingredients.
Being a restaurant run by a passionate and local hero, Chef Made, its heart truly lies in conveying the sheer joy that food brings. The love was evident in dishes as the chef meticulously prepared each course, down to the meticulous plating, ensuring each dish was a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
The first dish to arrest my senses was the Tuna Tataki. Lightly seared then thinly sliced, the sashimi-grade tuna was presented adorned with black sesame seeds, drizzled with a delicate ponzu sauce. The fusion of the rich, tangy sauce with the mellow flavors of the fresh tuna was akin to a dance of flavors under the balmy Bali skies.
Next was a succulent Bali Duck. This intriguing dish was an ode to traditional Balinese flavors, cooked low and slow to capture the essence of local spices. The duck was extraordinarily tender, melting instantly in the mouth, leaving behind an enchanting hint of spice.
Dessert followed with Pandanus cake, a traditional Indonesian dessert that is subtly sweet, infused with the distinct floral tones of Pandan. This beautifully green, melt-in-the-mouth delicacy encapsulated the Bali experience, symbolizing the simplicity and natural beauty of the island beautifully wrapped in culinary delight.
As I dined, it was strikingly clear – to be FED by Made is synonymous with being loved. Whether the individual touch to each gastronomical creation, the authentic Balinese flavors that permeated every dish or the emotional connection to the food that was so passionately displayed, it’s safe to conclude that FED by Made is indeed a testament to the philosophy that food is the greatest symbol of love.
To be FED by Made is not merely dining. It is indeed an utterly personal, captivating, and invigorating journey. It’s an experience that binds and heals, that comforts and loves, a journey that touches all senses and celebrates the timeless art of food. A journey, I realized, that was exactly what I needed in my moment of heartbreak. After all, what’s a better
