Born in Jakarta, Chef Maxie Millian is well-known in the culinary industry. Before settling in Bali, Maxie moved to Dubai to pursue his career. He has since won multiple awards, including a gold medal at Le Salon Culinaire International De Londres in 2012.
In 2020, Maxie and his wife, Vivilya Millian, opened their own restaurant in Jimbaran, Riung Rasa.
Hi Chef! Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your day-to-day activities?
Hi! I’m the cool husband of Vivilya Millian and the amazing father of Eo. I spent almost nine years cooking abroad before I decided to come back to Indonesia.
On a working day, I go to work around 8.30 AM and mostly home around 1 AM. But on my off days, I love spending time with my family and being at Riung Rasa.
What do you like the most about being a chef?
I love eating, I love tasting and trying out new flavors. And I get the feeling of satisfaction when I see people happy with my creations.
How do you describe your cooking style?
I don’t have any particular style; I just cook food that makes people happy.
What is the most unforgettable food experience you have ever had?
Hmmm, the most unforgettable food experience was when I had the chance to cook in North Sumatra at my in-laws’ village. At that time, I was too late to realize that the food was too spicy for them. I learned it the hard way, hahaha.
What usually attracts you to visit a place to eat?
Usually, it’s recommendations from friends, or sometimes I just explore.
Do you have any memorable food memories?
I love my mom’s cooking, and my most memorable food would be my mom’s Sayur Asam and the Rendang made by my mother-in-law.
What is your favorite type of food?
I can say it’s Indonesian food.
What is your most recent dining destination that left a good impression?
Locavore. I went there for Locavore’s Season one of Artefacts.
Do you have any go-to venues for hanging out with friends or maybe for special occasions with family?
Me, Vivi, and Eo love to go to Raa Cha Suki & BBQ on Sunday for lunch. For breakfast, we usually go to Braud, and for dinner, our usual places are Sangsaka, Bartolo, and Mason.
Is there any food you can eat every day without ever getting bored?
Good smoked beef brisket with dabu dabu from Riung Rasa 🥳. Others are a simple fried egg with rice and sambal or Indomie.
What are your favorite local dishes, and where do you go to eat them?
Nasi Campur Warung Hindu.
Where are your top three dining places always on your favorite list?
Mason, Bebek Patmoroso, Ramen Red Dragon
Is there any new plan or projects that we could look forward to?
Yes, I’m working on new projects and also developing some new recipes.
