Indonesian food doesn’t get as much credit as it deserves, not even in Southeast Asia.

While Vietnamese pho, Thai curries and Malaysian satays have become emblematic of Asian cuisine, most gastronomes would be hard-pressed to even name dishes originating in Indonesia.

Indonesian cuisine, or rather cuisines – which represent a diversity of local cultures and foreign influences – is full of exotic spices, coconut curries and grilled meats. Food varies greatly between the islands; Indonesia has almost 1,000 inhabited islands, each with its own culinary secrets and traditions.

The Riverside Café at Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon has special Indonesian fare on offer from June 13-29, prepared by chefs Khairul and Susandi of JW Marriott Hotel Medan, Indonesia.

On the menu will be an array of authentic Indonesian dishes such as Nasi Goreng, Nasi Pandang, Bubur Ayam, Gado Gado, and Lapis Legit. This is definitely an opportunity to “discover” a little-known Asian cuisine.

Guests to the buffet dinners will also have a chance to win an exlusive four-day/three-night luxury stay at JW Marriott Medan - Indonesia!

VND615,000++ (US$30.00) per person, food only.

VND738,000++ ($36.00) per person, including wine, beer and soft drinks.

For more information or to make reservations, call (08) 3 822 0033, ext. 2300 or e-mail chau.truong@renaissance-saigon.com.