One of my new favorite restaurants is Selamat Pagi, a local hideaway in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, that will temporarily export your senses to the exotic island of Bali. Before entering, I was thrilled to try a cuisine new to me but a little skeptical about what Balinese food actually is. After leaving I am obsessed with the culmination of cultures blending together to create a melting pot of delicious flavors. A food lovers paradise right off the G. There is no fuss or frill just exceptional ingredients and perfectly blended spices. Writing this, I am already craving the coconut long beans, and beef rendang. This is a place you go to try new things and after one bite, wonder how you lived with out these exotic yet homely dishes. Indonesia a country made up of over 6,000 islands and cultures Indian, Chinese, Middle Eastern, and European, so how could you not have something fantastic? We need a second to talk about the name, Selamat Pagi, I must have had to write it 15 times before I got the spelling down, and I’m glad I did because now I can say “Hello” in Indonesian. Growing up in Hawaii, local island fare really hits the spot and even with a new twist on spices and ingredients, the same care and spirit goes into the preparation of each recipe. Selamat Pagi is a phenomenal local joint that everyone should wish they have in their neighborhood.
First and second Photo Credit: Hazel Kiesewetter
A note on the the outstandingly delicious ice cream trio. The owners of Selamat Pagi also own my all-time favorite ice cream company Van Leeuwen so don’t forget dessert!
Selamat Pagi
Van Leeuwen
Photo Credit: Hazel Kiesewetter
Photo Credit: Lauren Volo
