PAYANGAN, BALI – September 2026** – Anantara Ubud Bali Resort welcomes I Wayan Agus Palguna, known as Chef Paul, as Chef de Cuisine at Amerta, the resort’s signature wood-fire restaurant in Payangan, Bali. Bringing nearly two decades of culinary experience, Chef Paul will lead the kitchen alongside Executive Chef Gianni Stargiotti, contributing a distinctly Balinese perspective to the restaurant’s culinary direction.

A graduate of Bali Hotel School, Chef Paul began his culinary career in 2007 and has developed his expertise across luxury hospitality kitchens in Bali and abroad. His approach combines contemporary culinary techniques with strong local knowledge and a respect for ingredients.

At Amerta, Chef Paul will contribute to a menu shaped by fire, seasonality and quality produce. The restaurant focuses on Mediterranean-inspired wood-fire cooking, featuring carefully sourced meats, fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients prepared to highlight their natural flavours.

Set against the rainforest landscape of Payangan, north of Ubud, Amerta offers a dining experience connected to its surroundings. Chef Paul’s appointment brings local culinary knowledge and international kitchen experience to the restaurant’s continued development.

“Bali has always shaped the way I understand food, from the ingredients around us to the way we gather around the table,” said Chef Paul. “At Amerta, I want to bring that connection into the kitchen while continuing to explore new techniques and ideas. For me, good cooking starts with quality ingredients and allowing each one to speak for itself.”

Working closely with Executive Chef Gianni Stargiotti, Chef Paul will oversee daily kitchen operations, contribute to menu development and help guide the restaurant’s evolving culinary offering.

“Paul brings strong local knowledge, experience and an instinctive understanding of ingredients,” said Chef Gianni. “There is a natural connection between his approach and what we are creating at Amerta, and I look forward to seeing his own character come through in the restaurant.”

Chef Paul’s arrival marks a new chapter for Amerta, strengthening the culinary team at Anantara Ubud Bali Resort and reinforcing its focus on thoughtful dining experiences inspired by local culture, produce and craftsmanship.

About Anantara Hotels & Resorts

Anantara is a luxury hospitality brand connecting guests with the places, people and stories of its destinations. Established in 2001, the brand operates more than 50 hotels and resorts across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean. Anantara is part of Minor Hotels and a member of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.

For more information, visit anantara.com.

About Minor Hotels

Minor Hotels is a global hospitality group operating more than 550 hotels, resorts and residences in 56 countries. Its portfolio includes Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks and Tivoli, alongside related hospitality businesses. Minor Hotels is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance and participates in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.