Reviews

Here is what others say about us.



Murni

 

Warna-Warna Kehidupan Ni Wayan Murni

"Kolektor barang seni dan pusaka serta perintis pariwisata di Ubud ini mengenang masa hidupnya yang susah sebagai pengalaman yang sangat berharga...."

Rani R. Moediarta
Persona, November 2007

Read the full article (in Indonesian) -- Warna-Warna Kehidupan Ni Wayan Murni

 

Meeting Ni Wayan Murni

" I arrived early for my meeting with Ni Wayan Murni. Ni Wayan Murni tells us four things..."

John Braine
The Times, Lombok, July - August 2007

Read the full article -- Meeting Ni Wayan Murni

 

 

Ni Wayan Murni: Balinese entrepreneur and traveler

"From a very small enterprise, Murni has moved on to become one of Ubud's most successful entrepreneurs and the restaurant is one of the most famous on the island....."

Andrew Charles
Jakarta Post, 21 July 2006

Read the full article -- Ni Wayan MurnI: Balinese entrepreneur and traveler

 

 

The Interview: An Ubud Original

"I am an Ubud original. I was born in Penestanan, about 5 minutes walk from Murni's Warung..."

Suanda, Hello Bali, April 2006

Read the full article -- The Interview: An Ubud Original

 

 

Ni Wayan Murni: Ubud's First Restaurateur

"Ni Wayan Murni is a pioneer of tourism in Bali....."

Siapa...?
Al Hickey, Bali Advertiser, May 2005

Read the full article -- Ni Wayan Murni: Ubud's First Restaurateur

 

 

Ni Wayan Murni

"Ibu Murni is a well-known character in Ubud as owner of Murni's Warung, Murni's Villas and many other enterprises but it wasn't always like this...."

Andrew Charles
Editor, Hello Bali, April 2005

Read the full article -- Ni Wayan Murni

 

 

"I was having dinner with an international businesswoman based in Singapore. I asked if she knew Murni's Warung in Bali. Without blinking she said, "Know Murni? Of course I know Murni! Everyone knows Murni. She is a legend. Travelers to Bali call her 'the Ibu (mother) of Ubud'. In October this year I traveled to Ubud to meet this living legend."

Rob Goodfellow
The Jakarta Post, 11 January 2001


Read the full article -- Murni, The Ibu of Ubud

 

 

"Murni's Warung is justly famous. It was the first warung to cater for the tourist trade, and since then has maintained its standards and trade. Murni has an uncanny eye for beautiful and rare objects and she has established her own signature shop at the top of the hill from the Campuhan bridge (where her warung is located). The shop is a museum in itself, each object with a history and a provenance. Her textiles are first rate, as are the old Javanese gold ornaments, now rare indeed. Murni loves to travel, and has friends all over the world. Ask for her, but she may well be up the Nile, in Brazil, or at the opera in London."

James Murdoch, Sayan, Bali
Ubud is a Mood, 2004

 

 

"What a wonderful surprise to meet such a dear old friend on the web! Ni Wayan Murni is an international treasure! Murni's kindness, warmth, gracious hospitality and genuine caring for her community, family, guests and friends around the world have endeared her to all of us who have had the great pleasure of knowing her."

Mary Letterii, San Francisco
6 December 2000

 

Murni's Villas

 

“I never thought it would be like this!” Julie shrieked. “I love it”. I had taken Julie to Murni’s Villas...

Frank Besant
Hello Bali, July 2006

Read the full article - An Experience

 

 

"For more luxury, hide yourself in Villa Kunang-Kunang, set in three hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens above the valley. The elegantly-furnished villas are divided into two independent storeys, with a jacuzzi upstairs. The saltwater pool merges with breathtaking views of rice terraces. Walk around the peaceful surroundings and ask the owners for an introduction to Ubud and its culture. Transportation is available at reasonable cost."

The Natural Guide to Bali, 2005

 

 

"Paradise is a vastly overused word in Bali but Villa Kunang-Kunang is genuinely a little slice of paradise all by itself, set in three hectares of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens and overlooking one of the sources of the dramatically scenic Ayung River..."

 

Richard Mann
Bali Off the Beaten Track, Gateway Books, 2005

Read the full article - Bali Off the Beaten Track

 

 

"Once upon a time, deep in the heart of Bali where two rivers meet, there was an abandoned rice paddy..."

Carol Walker
Travel Today Egypt, September/October 2004

Read the full article - Rapture Among the Rice Fields

 

 

"High in the cool, central highlands of the Island of Bali, far from the troubles of this world, is a small piece of paradise that has not been lost. The sun rises through the layers of mist that hang like white lace against the gold of the ripening harvest. It is sometime mid-morning and breakfast is served."

Rob Goodfellow
Tourism, Trade and Investment News, April 2004

Read the full article -- Breakfast in Paradise

 

 

"Murni has built an unbelievable hideaway outside of Ubud overlooking the rice terraces and within view of the sacred volcanic mountains of Mount Batur and Mount Agung...

On the night of our arrival, we drove along a path filled with firefies, for which the name of the place, Villa Kunang-Kunang, is derived. The lava stone Buddha, carved in Java near Borobodur, nodded a knowing greeting. Murni greeted us with a hug, as a chorus of frogs began a jungle symphony that lasted through the night. Murni said that they were welcoming us back home."

Pat Agles
Pirate Coast, December 2003


Read the full article -- Away to Bali

 

 

"Murni's latest venture is the creation of Villa Kunang-Kunang. This is about 15 minutes outside Ubud, on the road up to the landmark Mount Batur. Kunang-Kunang means "firefly" in the Indonesian language. Here Ibu Murni has built two fabulous villas, which are said to have the best views in Bali. The Villas look out over the ancient rice fields and are set in 3 hectares of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens"

Rob Goodfellow
The Jakarta Post, 11 January 2001


Read the full article -- Murni, The Ibu of Ubud

 

 

"Breathtaking, unspoilt views of a small valley await guests at Villa Kunang Kunang, situated 20 minutes drive north of Ubud, transportation is therefore essential. Accommodation is luxurious and extremely homely, traditional furnishings blend effortlessly with modern conveniences, there are only two villas so guests can enjoy total privacy and exceptional personalised service. This includes traditional Balinese food, taken in your villa, and beautiful guided walks and tours of the surrounding area. The newly completed infinity pool provides a beautiful addition to this secluded hide-away. Recommended for those who want nothing more to escape to peace and quiet."

Asia Hotels

 

 

"Luxe tropical à Villa Kunang-Kunang. Ces villas dues à Ibu Murni se cachent dans trois hectares de jardin tropical au-dessus de la vallée. Décorées avec goût, elles se divisent en deux niveaux independents avec jacuzzi à l'étage. La piscine d'eau salée se fond dans une vue extraordinaire des rizières en terrasses. Demandez à vos hôtes de vous aider à découvrir les paysages et la culture des environs. Des véhicules sont disponsibles à prix raisonables. Des repas à la carte sont préparés par la cuisinière personnelle de Ibu Murni."

 

Guide Naturale de Bali, 2005

 

Murni's Houses

 

"Lovers of old Ubud will relish the four guest-houses of Murni's, hidden in the nice garden of a cosy Balinese compound on the edge of rice fields - there is no signboard, so you may need to ask for directions. Everything is made to make guests feel at home in peaceful seclusion, yet it is within walking distance from Ubud's main street. Gourmets will appreciate the great breakfasts, with Murni's famous home-made yoghurt. "

The Natural Guide to Bali, 2005

 

 

"If you decide to go, be forewarned, people become hopelessly lazy here listening to serenading geckos and crowing roosters. Breakfast turns into lunch and you're still sitting in the restaurant, surrounded by gardens, eating, talking, thinking. But at Murni's you always have tomorrow."

Kathy Cox
Travel and Leisure

 

 

"Long a favorite of Jakarta-based expats, Murni's Houses lies below the restaurant by the same name... maid service and helpful staff. Each accommodation is whimsically decorated with Balinese paintings and hanging winged gods. From your veranda contemplate some of the area's most impressive examples of agricultural engineering."

Bill Dalton
Bali Handbook

 

 


"Murni's Houses: east of her famous warung, is up the stairs... and overlooks the rice fields. Four rooms. This idyllic setting is perfect for those who want to rest. Murni's famous  breakfasts are served here. Rooms range from a single room with bath and verandah to large house with two bedrooms and two baths (can sleep six). All rooms are screened, have hot water and fans. Baby sitter available. Credit cards accepted."

Insight Guide Bali, 2002

 

 


"Murni's Houses: ostlich von Murni's Warung, die Treppen hinauf nach Andangan. Blick auf die Reisfielder. Ideal fur einem langeren Aufenthalt. Alle Zimmer mit Warmwasser und Ventilator. Babysitter sind zu bekommen."

Bali Polyglott Apa Guide, 2002

 

"À la balinaise chez Murni's Houses: Les amoureux du vieil Ubud appreciéront les quatre guest houses de Ibu Murni, 'la mère d'Ubud', dans le beau jardin d'une accueillante demeure balinaise en bord de rizière. Il n'y a pas de panneau, il faut donc demander votre chemin pour trouver l'endroit. C'est le lieu idéal pour se sentir chez soi au calme, à quelques pas de la grand-rue d'Ubud. Le site internet regorge d'informations sur Bali."

Guide Naturale de Bali, 2005

 

Murni's Warung

 

Ubud News

"I remember a time when you were lucky to find anything more than fried bananas on local restaurant menus. Then came Murni's Warung..."

Ayu Intipid
Bali Advertiser, December 2007

Read the full article -- Ubud News

 

All roads lead to Murni's Warung

Mary, Martha, Murni's Warung and Me

"Mary is my wife, Martha is my mistress, Murni’s Warung is a famous restaurant and I am myself...."

Bud Smith
The Times, Lombok, August - September 2007

Read the full article -- All roads lead to Murni's Warung

 

 

Murni's Warung

"Renowned antique collector Ibu Murni founded the first real restaurant in Ubud in 1974, and still manages it actively..."

ShopSmart
Bali & Lombok 2006

Read the full article -- Murni's Warung

 

Murni's Warung

"As you approach through the highly-carved Balinese doors, you know you are in a place dedicated to the finer things of life..."

Andrew Charles
Editor, Hello Bali, April 2005

Read the full article -- Murni's Warung

 

 

Eat in the Gorge at Murni's

"In 1974, Ni Wayan Murni opened Ubud's first restuarant, where she served a mix of Western and Balnese food. Since then, generations of travellers have enjoyed the quality of her cuisine. Despite increasing road traffic, the four open-air levels facing the splendid river gorge offer absolute tranquility in a totally out-of-this-world atmosphere. It's a most pleasant place for a great healthy breakfast (Rp 45,000) or dinner (Rp 75,000). Vegetarian meals, home-made yoghurts, fantastic fruit juices, cakes, and pies are also on the MSG-free menu. "

The Natural Guide to Bali, 2005

 

 

"Since 1977 Murni's Warung has been an Ubud favourite. The setting is beautiful and a four level dining room overlooks the lush river valley. Indonesian dishes, curries and Western options are available. There's a cosy bar on the second level down. One quibble: the gift shop gets bigger every year!"

[Note from Murni: Actually, it's since 1974]

Lonely Planet Guide, Bali, 2005

 

 

Where to Eat: Murni's Warung

"This three-level restaurant is an Ubud institution. The freshly baked breads are delicious, especially in a chilli club sandwich, and you can sit on the top terrace for curries, burgers, hot dogs, steaks and more. For dessert, you'll want to stay for the cakes and the homemade yoghurt and ice cream."

Insider's Guide to Ubud
Delicious, voted the World's best food magazine, March 2005

 

 

"Murni's Warung: Follow the stairs all the way down to the lowest level of this multi-tiered restaurant and you'll approach the setting for it's built into the wall of the steep-sided Wos River valley. This restaurant is an Ubud institution and serves curries, home-made soups and Indonesian specialties as well as serving things, such as strawberry cheesecake and banana caramel cake."

Rough Guide, Bali, 2005

 

 

"Murni's Warung: An old favourite, on the Ubud side of Campuhan Bridge overlooking the Wos river. This multi-storied restaurant is where the eclectic mix of American and Balinese favourites got its start in the late 1970s. The hamburger has stood the test of time, and the satay, gado-gado and grilled fish are delectable. The lower dining areas offer tranquility, with only the sound of the river to disturb the peace. Outstanding deserts and freshly-squeezed fruit juices."

Periplus Guide to Bali, the Island of the Gods, 2005

 

 

"Murni's Warung, In-spot for a meat fix; ribs earn local raves. Under $10."

Miami Herald, 11 September 2005

 


"Murni's (tel: 975233) located over the Campuhan River can't be beaten - there are now three levels of seating, the grill is open for scrumptious barbecues of fish, prawns and chicken." [Now four levels]

Insight Guide Bali, 2002

 

 

"Murni's Warung down by the Campuhan Bridge is one of just a few places which have been catering for travellers since they began to come to Ubud in the 1960s. The warung is actually a restaurant with an excellent menu of traditional and Western-style food, including mouth-watering delicacies such as frozen banana cheesecake."

Cadogan Guides, Bali

 

 

"Murni's Warung: Beside a small ravine just outside Ubud, this multi-level restaurant is spacious yet intimate. The street level dining room has terrific views (particularly of a nearby waterfall), as does the downstairs bar. Throughout the shadowy wood interior is complemented by simple bamboo furniture and Indonesian art, creating a rustic and very Balinese feel. Both Indonesian and Western dishes are served, and special buffets are available on Western holidays. The Balinese duck - stuffed with spices and baked so thoroughly that the meat falls off the bones - is tried and true. The friendly, cheerful staff are ready to offer advice on local activities or simply rock babies while parents eat. A shop on the upper floor is a veritable gallery of Balinese items. Murni's also has some accommodation, including two rooms, a bungalow and a house - all moderately priced."

Fodor's Indonesia, 1999

 

 

"Murni's Warung: Sur Jalan Raya Ubud juste avant le pont. Tel: 975233. Bien indiquée de la route. Pleusieurs niveaux, une boutique, un bar-salon… terasse dominant la rivière et l'épaisse vegetation. Superbe addresse où curries, poisson, viande et desserts sont realisés avec brio. Également cuisses de grenouilles, gaspacho et d'autres choses originales et raffinées. "

Le Guide du Routard, Indonésie, 2002-3

 

 

"Murni's Warung: Das bekannteste und schönste Restaurant Ubuds findet sich am Ortsausgang (Campuan) an einer alten Hängebrücke (parallel verläuft die neue Strassenbrücke nach Kedewatan). Das Restaurant ist in den Abhang einer Sclucht gebaut und bietet Sitzmöglichkeiten auf drei Etagen. Die seit langem etablierte Gaststätte hat sich dem westlichen Essensgeschmack angepasst: Auf der Karte stehen neben indonesischen Speisen auch joghurt und Sago-Pudding, Guacamole und Lasagne, ebenso eine grosse Auswahl von hausgemachten Torten und Kuchen."

Merian Live! Bali Reisen mit Erlebnis-Garantie, 2002

 

 

"Murni's Warung: Jalan Raya v. Wos-floden pa gransen til Campuhan. Righoldigt menukort og hyggelig atmosfaere."

Turen Gar Til Bali Lombok, Af Jens Erik Ramussen, 2001

 

"Face à la gorge à Murni's Warung: En 1974, Ni Wayan Murni ouvrait le premier restaurant d'Ubud, où elle servait un mélange de recettes occidentales et balinaises. Depuis, des generations de touristes ont savouré la qualité de sa cuisine. Face aux rochers coverts de mousse de la gorge entroite de Campuhan, les quatres étages en terrasses semblent hors de ce monde. Les petits déjeuners sont extraordinaires, et à toute heure vous apprécierez les spécialités locales, les plats végétariens, les yaourts maison, les jus de fruits et les gâteaux inoubliables."

Guide Naturale de Bali, 2005


Murni's Shops

Note from Murni: My collection is in Murni's Warung Shop, which is part of the restaurant.

 

Murni's Warung Shop

"I feel as if I grew up in Bali, as I went there so often as a teenager and young woman. Murni's is a veritable Aladdin's cave of luscious Asian objets d'art, furniture and textiles. It's a wonderful place to shop and there is a great restaurant attached."

Jane Rutter is Australia's best-known flautist and one of the most versatile; she performs in the classical, jazz and pop arenas.

Jane Rutter's Favourite Places in the World
The Australian, 8 December 2007


 

"Murni was the first person to have a proper gallery of antiques, textiles, costumes, old beads, tribal jewelry, stone carvings, masks and other ethnic pieces in Ubud..."

Richard Mann
Treasures of Bali, A Guide to Museums in Bali, 2006

Read the full article -- Treasures of Bali

 

 

Murni's Warung Shop

"Ibu Murni is the grande dame of Ubud antique and handicraft dealers, as well as a legendary local restauranteur..."

ShopSmart
Bali & Lombok 2006

Read the full article -- Murni's Warung Shop

 

 

Murni's Warung Shop

"Traditional arts and crafts from all over the archipelago assiduously collected by Murni who has formidable fine arts credentials and seasoned and sophisticated taste."

Periplus Guide to Bali, the Island of the Gods, 2005

 

 

"Ubud armed Murni with formidable fine arts credentials and an exquisite, seasoned, sophisticated sense of taste. Murni's knowledge of and ability to select and scout out collector-quality antiques have made her both personally famous and professionally trusted around the globe as a leading art buyer. Each piece of original artwork in her outlets has been personally smiled on and chosen by Murni to please and excite her customers. "

Dr. Vivienne Kruger
Bali & Beyond Magazine, October 2002

Read the full article -- Art Treasures of Ubud

 

 

"Upscale Murni's in Campuhan is one of the most fashionable antique shops in the Ubud area."

Bill Dalton
Bali Handbook

 

 

"As to quality, if you’re not sure of your ability to judge and you care about getting the best, visit Murni’s Warung Shop ... You’ll get honest answers, fair fixed prices, and a selection of the best textiles from throughout Indonesia and elsewhere. These are the only stores recommended for geringsing."

Carol Walker
Travel Today Egypt, September/October 2004

Read the full article - Buying Textiles in Bali

 

 

"Murni's shops are fabulous. Her taste is exquisite and her sources are the best. For jewelry, textiles, tribal art and antiques and some furniture she is the best. "

Indopac website

 

 

Through the years, I continued to dream, hopelessly I thought, of owning a piece of this mythical cloth. So this spring I was stunned to see several examples of genuine geringsing available for about $100 and up, at Murni’s Warung Shop in Ubud, Bali.

Carol Walker
Travel Today Egypt, September/October 2004

Read the full article - Weaving a Spell

 

 

"I was lucky enough to spend 14 of my 18 days in Ubud at Murni's Houses...Aside from running one of the area's best-known restaurants, the enterprising Murni (in Bali, last names are considered sacred and never used) is also the proprietor of a group of stylish boutiques in Campuhan called Kunang-Kunang that sell Indonesian goods in a sedate atmosphere tailored to Western tastes."

Carey Lovelace
The New York Times, 9 April 1995

 

 

"Murni's Warung ... sell quality Indonesian antiques..."

Julie Gaw
Driving Yourself Around the Bend in Bali
Time, 9 October 2000

 

 

 

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Meet Murni at the San Francisco Arts of Pacific Asia Show, Feb 2009