From talented young chefs elevating Indonesian cuisine to beloved culinary heroes celebrating the classics in style, this year’s Festival is a testament to the nation’s astonishing culinary identity and a reminder that heritage is not just about the past—it is actively nurtured and sustained every day.
“In our 10th year, we honor Indonesia’s rich culinary traditions, celebrating the flavors, techniques, and stories passed down through generations,” said Founder and Director Janet DeNeefe. “Over three-days, foodies can discover lesser known regional specialties and enjoy recipes that have shaped our diverse food culture.”
As in previous years, gourmands can savor flavors at the Festival’s famous free Food Market while also enjoying a curated lineup of Special Events. Masterclasses will place attendees on the front line of culinary excellence, offering personal tips and hands-on guidance for perfecting their dishes. Live cooking sessions at the Teater Kuliner stage will guarantee festival-goers plenty of facetime with culinary talents as they unveil their most iconic dishes.
Meanwhile, the Food for Thought stage will bring together consumers and producers to share stories, network, and collaborate in shaping a vibrant and sustainable culinary future. Featuring outstanding local changemakers, environmental heroes, hard-working farmers, and pioneering organizations, this platform brings together the region’s movers and shakers to bite into big issues and new ideas.
Along with the theme launch, the Festival also unveiled its official artwork by Balinese illustrator Gusde Sidhi. The piece is Gusde’s attempt to honor Indonesia’s culinary landscape through cultural symbolism, drawing inspiration from traditional aesthetics. With its rich motifs and detailed illustrations, the artwork celebrates the beauty of Indonesia’s most beloved dishes and the deep-rooted connection between food, tradition, and community.
“Much like a vintage poster, it tells a story—one of flavors and the enduring legacy of food as a cultural identity,” commented Janet DeNeefe. “At its center stands a strong female figure, embodying the vital role of women in preserving and passing down culinary traditions, surrounded by iconic Indonesian dishes that celebrate generations of cherished flavors. This connection between food and heritage is at the heart of our 2025 Festival, and we can’t wait to welcome you to embark on a journey with us to explore the rich history behind every bite.”
Gusde Sidhi, who created this year’s festival artwork, is an illustrator and history enthusiast based in Bali, Indonesia. He loves to tell stories through his unique and detailed illustrations, often inspired by history and mythology from the books he reads, the documentaries he watches, or the songs he listens to. He graduated from the Indonesian Art Institute Denpasar with a degree in Visual Communication Design in 2020 and has since embarked on a career as a professional illustrator. He has collaborated with renowned clients, including Adidas, Uniqlo, Bodrex, Palari, and many others. To learn more about the artist and his work, click here.
