A highlight feature from A Legacy of Hospitality: The Value of Family and Solitude Lembeh Resort.
Let me introduce you to Ibu Saminem Suhadak, affectionately referred to as Ibu Saminem, a talented cook at the Solitude Lembeh Resort located in the village of Jikoaras. Ibu Saminem has lived in Jikoaras with her family for 36 years. Her husband earns a living as a squid fisherman, while her children have also found their passions in the local community. One child has become a dive guide, another a dive master, and the third has followed Ibu Saminem’s lead and become a cook. Their family’s presence and contributions have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the community.
When not working, Ibu Saminem enjoys farming in her garden, where she grows kitchen herbs, bananas, cassava, and taro—elements that often inspire authentic food experiences and her passion for Indonesian cooking.
From Kitchen Helper to Culinary Expert: A Journey of Growth
In 2004, Ibu Saminem joined Kasawari Resort and stayed on when it was transformed into the new Solitude Lembeh Resort. Initially, she began as a kitchen helper, but her former chef taught her the art of cooking, which she grew to love.
Ibu Saminem has pleasant memories of Nuprapat Snidvongs, the owner of Kasawari Resort, who treated his employees with kindness. Despite the language barrier, he would share Thai food recipes with her and use gestures to ensure that the kitchen staff understood him. Ibu Saminem is grateful for his efforts to bridge the communication gap and show a genuine interest in his employees’ well-being. She also values the current management team at Solitude World, who have made an effort to communicate in the local language. Ibu Saminem appreciates the creative freedom she has in the kitchen while emphasizing the importance of discipline.
The Evolution of Solitude Lembeh Resort and Its Community Impact
She remembers the time when she first relocated to the area, describing it as a time when there were vast stretches of jungle and no resorts. She believes that the establishment of Kasawari and Solitude has had a beneficial impact on the community. The resorts have created employment opportunities for the locals and treated them with respect, providing a consistent source of income for the community.
During the pandemic, Solitude’s decision to keep all employees on half-time instead of laying them off was a standout moment, providing much-needed stability and support during uncertain times.
The Heart of Solitude’s Culinary Offerings
Ibu Saminem is especially fond of the renovated Solitude Lembeh Resort, particularly due to the restaurant’s ground floor location, which fosters smooth communication between the guests and the kitchen staff. She describes a typical day in the kitchen involves preparing ingredients, cooking, and washing dishes, with occasional deep cleaning during idle times. For her, food quality preservation largely depends on the kitchen’s cleanliness, which is of utmost importance.
“Cleanliness is very important to preserve the quality in the food.”
Ibu Saminem takes pride in her signature dishes – Tom Yum and Thai rice soup with group pork, which is also a personal favorite of Kit and Andrew, the directors of Solitude World. Despite catering to guests from diverse backgrounds worldwide, she makes a conscious effort to deliver authentic Indonesian dishes alongside appealing Western dishes, creating a resort culinary journey that satisfies diverse palates.
Discover Authentic Indonesian Cuisine and Culinary Tourism at Solitude Lembeh Resort
For nearly two decades, Ibu Saminem has been a valued member of the Kasawari Solitude family. During this time, she has come to deeply appreciate the balance between discipline and creative freedom the management team has afforded her. Such an environment is incredibly motivating for her to introduce guests to Indonesian culture through its famous dishes and flavors.
Ibu Saminem encourages guests to embrace the local dishes and try more of them, particularly those passionate about diving and good food. She urges them not to shy away from trying classic Indonesian food, as she knows how to prepare it to their liking. Her message to guests who share her passion for diving and good food is:
“Don’t be afraid to try the local cuisine, as Ibu Saminem knows how to cook it the way you like it.”
Ibu Saminem’s culinary talent and passion have made her an indispensable member of the Solitude Lembeh Resort team. Her dedication to providing authentic food experiences and quality ensures that guests have an unforgettable culinary journey filled with the flavors of Indonesian cuisine and beyond.
With her encouragement, guests can explore and appreciate the flavors of the local cuisine. Whether indulging in traditional foods, exploring foods to try, or savoring dishes infused with Indonesian spices, her cooking offers a taste of Indonesian culinary tourism at its finest.
Visit Tembaga Restaurant & Bar for a Culinary Adventure
As you dive into the vibrant travel stories and experiences of Solitude Lembeh Resort, don’t miss the chance to savor the delights of Tembaga Restaurant & Bar. Nestled within the heart of the resort, this exceptional Indonesian restaurant offers a perfect blend of local cuisine and international dishes that cater to every palate. Whether you’re seeking the best Indonesian food or wish to explore new flavors crafted with authentic Indonesian recipes, Tembaga is the ideal destination for your next culinary journey.
Make your visit to Tembaga a highlight of your stay at Solitude Lembeh Resort and embark on an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Indonesian culinary and eco-friendly tourism. Whether you’re a food enthusiast searching for your next favorite cuisine or a traveler seeking authentic flavors, Tembaga promises a memorable chapter in your travel stories.
Book your trip with Solitude World and experience the perfect fusion of flavors and eco-friendly tourism!