Mamaka by Ovolo welcomes its newest culinary rockstar, Chef Anuj Kumar Ray. Hailing from the heart of India, Jabalpur, where the Narmada River flows and riverside cooking was his teenage playground, Chef Anuj has arrived and making waves with a bold mission; to take Indian cuisine to the next level without forgetting the true essence and heritage of Indian food. Chef Anuj is bringing his fiery passion, innovative flair, and mouthwatering flavours to the vibrant culinary scene at Mamaka by Ovolo.
Chef Anuj’s culinary journey began as a teen with chulha-style (brick stove) riverside feasts, whipping up smoky curries and kebabs against stunning scenic backdrops. What started as fun weekends with friends soon turned into a full-blown obsession with the art of cooking.
Mamaka and Chef Anuj’s specialty will be crafting all of our spice blends in-house, from garam masala and chaat masala to chai masala. “After a decade of honing my craft, I’m ready to elevate Indian cuisine in Bali and redefine what it means to experience authentic Indian flavors. Get ready to be amazed as I bring the heat to Kuta’s vibrant culinary scene,” said Chef Anuj Kumar Ray.
The resort’s signature Makhani Masala, which is featured in dishes like Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani, is inspired by the rich flavors of North India, and the Dal Makhani is traditionally slow cooked for 24 hours, ensuring deep, authentic taste.
Snacks, like street-style Aloo Chaat, draw inspiration from the bustling streets of Jaipur, while the samosas reflect flavors from central India.
Poha, one of the most popular Indian breakfast items, originates from Indore city in central India, and it’s a personal favorite of mine, along with the Butter-Fried Curry Leaf Prawns, which offer a refreshing taste from the coastal regions of South India.
Joel Bartlett, General Manager of Mamaka by Ovolo Hotels said, “We’re thrilled to have Chef Anuj join the Mamaka family. His passion and talent for Indian cuisine are unparalleled. We’re confident that he will provide our guests with a truly unforgettable dining experience. Get ready to be wowed by the innovative and delicious dishes he’ll be creating.”
About Ovolo Group :
The Ovolo Group, founded by entrepreneur Girish Jhunjhunwala, entered the real estate market in 2002 before expanding into the hotel industry in 2010. Ovolo Hotels quickly became one of Hong Kong and Australia’s most dynamic, independent, owner-operated hospitality firms, offering guests effortless living through their hotels and food and beverage outlets. Known for their modern approach, Ovolo Hotels provide guests with award-winning interior designs, complimentary services like mini bars and breakfast, and cutting-edge technology.
Proudly based in Hong Kong, the Ovolo Group remains a family-owned, privately operated business with hotels and restaurants in Hong Kong and Australia, including locations in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane. A new hotel, Ovolo South Yarra, is currently under development in Melbourne. The group also features the By Ovolo Collective, a unique collection of hotels, including Nishi Apartments in Canberra, The Sheung Wan by Ovolo in Hong Kong, and Mamaka Kuta Beach in Bali.
