Rani Permata
Jul 31, 2026
The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place Presents:
The Archipelago Table by William Wongso
Long before culinary tourism became fashionable, William Wongso was already travelling across Indonesia in search of recipes most people had never heard of.
His classrooms were traditional markets. His teachers were grandmothers, fishermen, spice traders, and home cooks scattered across thousands of islands. Over the decades, those journeys shaped a body of work that has made him one of Indonesia's most respected voices in gastronomy and helped bring Indonesian cuisine to a global audience. His award-winning book Flavors of Indonesia became more than a collection of recipes. It became a celebration of the people, traditions, and stories behind the country's remarkable culinary heritage.
This August, guests will have the opportunity to experience part of that journey at The Archipelago Table by William Wongso, a special two-day culinary showcase taking place on 1 and 2 August 2026 at PA.SO.LA Restaurant, The Ritz Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place.
Created together with Executive Chef Willmer Colmenares and the hotel's culinary team, the menu draws inspiration from discoveries gathered throughout William Wongso's travels across the archipelago, bringing together flavors that reflect Indonesia's diversity, creativity, and enduring culinary traditions.
One dish in particular is expected to spark conversation: Tuna Gohu in Pani Puri. Inspired by Gohu Ikan, a beloved North Maluku delicacy often described as Indonesia's answer to Molucas Ceviche. The dish is presented in delicate pani puri shells, creating an unexpected interplay of flavor, texture, and culture. It is a creation that invites curiosity before the first bite and perfectly reflects William Wongso's ability to connect traditions, ingredients, and stories from different corners of the region.
Guests can also look forward to signature creations including Rendang Beef Cheek and Garang Asam Salmon, alongside a collection of dishes inspired by places, encounters, and memories gathered over a lifetime of exploration.
What makes the experience particularly special is that behind every dish lies a story. Throughout his career, William Wongso has often spoken about food as a living expression of culture, carrying traces of history, geography, migration, and family traditions. In his view, understanding a dish means understanding the people who created it.
"If you want to understand a culture, begin with its food," said William Wongso. "Every region has its own character, wisdom, and culinary identity. Indonesia's greatest strength lies in its diversity, and I hope guests leave The Archipelago Table with not only memorable flavors, but also a deeper curiosity about the stories and traditions that bring those flavors to life."
For diners, The Archipelago Table offers more than an exclusive menu. It presents a rare opportunity to meet one of the figures most closely associated with Indonesia's culinary renaissance, hear the stories behind the dishes, and experience firsthand the passion that has inspired generations of chefs, restaurateurs, and food enthusiasts.
"Many people know William Wongso through his books, television appearances, and decades of contributions to Indonesian gastronomy," said Sumit Joshi, General Manager of The Ritz Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place. "What makes this collaboration truly exceptional is the opportunity for our guests to connect with him personally and experience the depth of knowledge, passion, and curiosity that have defined his life's journey. We are incredibly proud to welcome William Wongso to The Ritz Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place and to present an experience that celebrates not only great cuisine, but also the remarkable individual behind it."
Available for two days only, The Archipelago Table is set to become one of Jakarta's most sought-after culinary experiences of the season.
A portion of proceeds from the event will contribute to fundraising efforts leading up to the Marriott Business Council Indonesia Charity Classic Golf Tournament, taking place on 22 August 2026 at Jatinangor National Golf & Resort. Together, these initiatives will support the development of clean water facilities in East Nusa Tenggara, extending the impact of every reservation beyond the dining table.
Seats are expected to be limited for this exclusive collaboration. Guests are encouraged to secure their reservations early and be part of a weekend that celebrates the flavors, stories, and spirit of Indonesia through the eyes of a true culinary legend.
For more information, please email [email protected], contact +62 811 8061 850 or visit www.ritzcarltonpacificplace.com.