Culinary diplomacy: Serving Nusantara flavours in the Land of the Aztecs

Mexico City (ANTARA) - Raising Indonesia’s profile on the world stage is not solely achieved through political diplomacy or sporting events. Dishes made from ancestral recipes can also be a way to introduce Indonesia to the world. That is the path taken by Renta Uli Panggabean, an Indonesian citizen living in Mexico City, Mexico. Separated by the vast Pacific Ocean, Uli introduces Indonesia in the Land of the Aztecs, another name for Mexico, through speciality dishes from various regions across the Nusantara. Through Restoran Enak, which she founded three years ago in the heart of Mexico City, the Cuauhtemoc district, the name Indonesia is gradually becoming more recognised among Mexicans and other foreign nationals. This is especially true as the 2026 World Cup is currently taking place in Mexico City, bringing many people from various countries to the city situated over 2,000 metres above sea level. “Most of the foreign visitors who come to Restoran Enak are those who have been here for three days,” said Uli, the nickname for Renta Uli Panggabean. According to her, they grow tired of Mexican dishes, which have a nearly uniform sour flavour profile. For that reason, Uli said, these tourists seek out other food varieties.