The neighborhood bodegóns of Buenos Aires are renowned for their simplicity, the home-style quality of the dishes, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. And Chef Fernando Trump successfully delivered that at Raffles Jakarta’s Restaurant Take Over at The Dining Room on October 7th, 2022.
Chef Fernando Trump began his career in his home in Argentina, learning from Buenos Aires’ culinary superstars. He has worked with some of the world’s most well-known chefs, including Joel Robuchon’s L’atelier in Paris and Mirazur in Menton.
In 2022, Chef Fernando opens Don Fernando, an authentic neighborhood restaurant where food, drinks, and hospitality combine to recreate the experience of an authentic Argentine diner.
Living in Bali, nostalgia for the flavors and experience of local Buenos Aires restaurants inspired him to retrace his roots. The menu he serves in Don Fernando and at Raffles Jakarta gives meaning to the communal eating style.
With almost 13 dishes served that night, from appetizers to dessert, I genuinely feel the heartwarming experience of communal eating. There were sings of praise and amusement at every dish that was presented.
Starting the right way, Pan con chicharron – ancient grains sourdough is served with smoked beef fat butter and is presented as a starter. Chef Fernando truly pours his good memories and his passion through every dish. The empanadas he served were inspired by his mother, filled with succulent beef and vegetables wrapped in the flakiest pastry, and served with llajua sauce that elevated the taste even further.
For the main course, chef Fernando serves “Entrana” black Angus skirt steak with chimichurri made with fresh herbs. But that is not all; communal eating is an essential culture in Argentina; social gatherings are commonly centered on sharing a meal – much like here in Indonesia. Therefore it is no surprise that the side dish presented with the steak has many options. It starts with Humita Nortena Corn, Potato Puree with shredded cured duck eggs, Marinated Tomatoes, and a bowl of Quinoa, green beans, and caramelized onions.
For the dessert, chef Fernando presents a piece of his childhood to the table; classic flan with dulce de leche serves as a delightful ending. Bringing his family style of making flan, the egg-based custard has more cream than the egg, making the texture smooth and melt in your mouth.
Through this dinner, Chef Fernando succesfully infused history and a love of the land, family, and community through his creations.
With its Restaurant Take Overs, Raffles Jakarta etched its way into the Jakarta culinary scene by showcasing innovative collaborations between Raffles Jakarta and famous guest chefs worldwide.
The Dining Room
Raffles Jakarta
Ciputra World, Jl. Prof. DR. Satrio No.Kav 3 – 5, Karet Kuningan, Setiabudi, Jakarta 12940
