Naughty Nuri’s Melbourne
Shop 317, Level 3 Shopping Centre, 211 La Trobe Street
03 9650 6828
Indonesian
$$
Food
- Naught Nuri'S 1995 Signature Bbq Pork Ribs
- Bebek Betutu Gilmanu (Braised Duck)
- Ayam Penyet (Fried "Smashed Chicken")
- Ikan Bakar Makassar (Grilled Barramundi Fillet)
- Indonesian Mi Goreng
- Crispy Pork Belly
- Prawn Crackers With Satay
- Crispy Pork Ear
- Lemongrass Spiced Calamari
The Good
Starting off with some finger food, we dipped the Prawn Crackers into their house made Satay Sauce. With actual, discernible chunks of crushed peanuts within, this sweet and savoury combination made for an enticing appetiser, even just by itself. The satay itself was simply delicious, made even better by the crunchy sensation of the cracker.
The Lemongrass Spiced Calamari was to die for. Exceptionally soft and tender, the fresh pieces of calamari was coated with a light lemongrass batter which provided a nice crunchy outer. With a perfect combination of soft and crunchy texture, along with the delicious freshness of the calamari itself, I just couldn't get enough of this starter!
The roasted Crispy Pork Belly was equally delectable. With an exceptionally crispy pork skin, this was made more delicious by the equally layered fat and meat, which made for an intricate combination of textures and flavours. Dipping it in the ever spicy Seafood sauce, and this dish was an absolute sensory overload given it's been marinated in their secret marinade.
We also particularly enjoyed the Signature BBQ Pork Ribs. Perfectly roasted in barbecue sauce, the ribs were tender and succulent. A slightly charred outer layer sealed in the juicy goodness of the protein within. Notably, the original aroma and flavour of the pork was ever present and not lost within all the sauces. While I've had many ribs in the past, this is one in a handful that maintains a great balance in flavour, and as a result this ranks among one of the best ribs I've ever had.
The Ikan Bakar Makassar (Grilled Barramundi) was also very enjoyable. With a crispy charred outer skin that was heavily laden with flavourful and spicy Makassar hot sauce, the protein underneath was cooked to perfection. Soft and juicy, the flavour and aroma of the fish was fire her enhanced by the spiciness. To tone down the temperature, this is best when eaten along with the beautifully fragrant coconut rice.
Being a traditional Indonesian dish, the Ayam Penyet was a must try and it certainly didn't disappoint. There's no doubt that the highlight of the dish was that lightly battered, crispy and golden chicken skin. Tearing open this perfectly fried chicken skin reveals some tender and juicy chicken protein. Dabbing on the exceptionally spicy yet appetising sambal, this was no ordinary fried chicken and I thoroughly enjoyed every bite.
The Bebek Betutu Gilimanuk (Braised Duck) was prepared in a lightly seasoned, Balinese spice broth and was cooked to perfection. With a strong duck aroma, the duck meat was perhaps the most tender duck protein I've ever had. No extra sauces were necessary to fully appreciate the juicy and flavourful protein.
The drinks overall were colourful, and most importantly flavourful, with the most notable being the three layered coffee which, while not unique, definitely was tasty. Alcoholic drinks were definitely strong and packed a punch, and with a song and dance accompanying every cocktail that you order, this eatery scores high in both food and atmosphere!
The Mediocre
The Indonesian Mie Goreng, a traditional Indonesian staple, was rather ordinary. While loaded with chicken, squid, and prawns, the dish felt rather standard and the level of spice didn't quite match up to the other dishes that was absolutely bursting with bold, unapologetic flavours. Nothing was bad really, just unspectacular when compared to everything else on offer here.
The Bad
Nothing.
The Verdict
While American style ribs seem to be an odd combination to traditional Indonesia dishes, this menu has actually been tried and tested for many years in Indonesia, and has proven to be a popular choice for the locals.
Being the first opening in Australia, Naughty Nuri's provide an authentic and traditional Indonesian experience with a modern twist, and I am very glad that this famous Indonesian institution has decided to open up in Melbourne.
Would Penguin Eat Again?
Absolutely. Being one of the best Indonesian meals I've had in Melbourne, there's no doubt I will be back in a heartbeat, especially given the attractive price point and convenient location.
We thank Naughty Nuri's for inviting us to be part of their first ever establishment in Australia.