Get to know Vivilya Millian, known as the lady pitmaster and owner of Riung Rasa. Under her guidance, Riung Rasa unfolds as a charming haven of Indonesian comfort cuisine, draped in the simplicity of a humble warung concept. With a fiery passion for smoking meat, Vivilya transitions from a 16-year corporate journey to carve her niche in the vibrant F&B industry, introducing the Indonesian Smoke & Grill House in Bali.
Vivilya, who professes her deepest culinary affections for Asian cuisine, including the rich tapestry of Indonesian flavors, narrates her three-year odyssey with passion. In her words, “I love Asian cuisine the most, including Indonesian cuisine because I think it’s full of flavor.” Beyond her own culinary haven, she unfolds tales of recent gastronomic expeditions and graciously unveils the culinary gems from her top three dining sanctuaries.
What is your favourite type of cuisine?
I love Asian cuisine the most, including Indonesian cuisine because I think it’s full of flavour.
What is the food that you love the most?
Hotpot! I can have it anytime, anywhere.
Do you have any memorable food trips?
My recent work trip to Bandung was memorable. I was born in Bandung but left after college, so I was clueless about how the F&B business in Bandung has become so vibrant and interesting. From Cihapit to Gang Besi and many more, there are so many things to explore but sadly not enough time.
What is the most unique or unusual dish you have ever tried, and where did you taste it?
I don’t eat fish, so eating raw fish is unusual for me. But at that time, I felt like I needed to try. It was in Bartolo (I think it was a seasonal menu) and recently at Furusato Izakaya.
Are there any local or abroad restaurants you would want to visit but have not visited? What makes you interested in going there? Or are there any foods you want to try but have not tried?
One day I would love to go to Texas and try all BBQ joints, especially Franklin and Snow’s BBQ.
To you, what would make a perfect meal?
My perfect meal would be my mom’s cooking. Living away from my parents for a long time makes me always miss home. Whenever there’s a chance, I will bring my mom’s cooking with me. It’s cooked with love and holds sentimental value.
What is the most unforgettable food experience you have had?
It’s been a while, but my last dinner in Locavore was something. It’s not your everyday meal, but each dish was a journey. Many of the ingredients are not familiar to me, although I am Indonesian, so it’s quite amazing to know that.
Name one of your favourite cities to eat and tell us why.
Kuala Lumpur! Maybe because I used to live and work there, so whenever I visit, it’s like a memory lane. You can find different cuisines because the country is so vibrant.
What is your most recent dining destination that left a good impression? What was it that managed to impress you? Can you recommend to us what to get from that place?
If you haven’t, please visit Gang Besi in Bandung. On my recent trip to Bandung, I tried Ayam Jimboo, a very humble place with good food and warm people. In the same area, you can also try Bakmi Feng and Custom Coffee Garage. In Cihapit, I am a big fan of Seroja Bakery with their mission and unique product, also comfort food Nasi Telur Sumber Rezeki. I am lucky enough to also try Bien patisserie before they sold out. What I love the most is how the community supports each other. I guess since Riung Rasa was born and grown with the communities, I left a piece of my heart during my last visit there.
What is your favourite street food, and where do you usually eat it?
Terang Bulan/ Martabak is so yummy. I go with Pecenongan.
Is there any food you can eat every day without getting bored? Do you have any place you frequently go to for it?
It has to be Raa Cha; my family and I always have our Sunday lunch there. I think my closest friends often laugh about how often I go there.
Where do you usually hang out with friends or go for special occasions with family?
Unless it’s a work trip, you will find me in Riung Rasa every day, so this is where I hang out. Friends normally come here instead; I go and see them because I can’t just leave. On my free days, we often hang out in T&T Bali.
What are your favourite local dishes, and where do you usually go to eat them?
Babi Guling is one of my favourite local dishes here in Bali. My top place will be Sari Nadi.
Where are your top three dining places always on your favourite list? And which food do you recommend getting at those places?
– Braud Café: Banana Danish, Almond Croissant
– T&T: Bakmi Komplit
– Nusantara by Locavore: All of their menu is amazing!
What is your go-to comfort food, and where do you usually get them?
My very own tempe kecap. Easy to make and delicious, so whenever I get stuck on what to eat, or when I have limited time to eat. It’s my 15-minute dish!
Gran Melia Jakarta">
