Indonesian restaurants are a rare find in the Bay Area. Fortunately, a new one has arrived to fill the void: Nusa Bakeshop. This new establishment in Emeryville’s Public Market is the brainchild of chef Jennifer Huang, who grew up in Sumatra. Nusa offers a tempting array of traditional Indonesian sweets and savories, bringing the flavors of her childhood to the local community.
Nusa’s menu features a range of delectable treats, including the iconic thousand-layer cake, a toothsome dessert combining European butter with warm spices like clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon. The bakery also offers pineapple tartlets, a classic Indonesian pastry filled with sweet pineapple jam. For those seeking savory options, Nusa has you covered with mochi chicken rolls, featuring tender chicken wrapped in chewy mochi dough, and chicken satay, succulent chicken skewers served with rice cakes and pickles.
Larger appetites can be satisfied with Nusa’s hearty offerings, such as caramelized spiced-beef rendang with seasonal vegetables and shrimp chips, a flavorful Indonesian curry dish. Other savory choices include coriander-braised tofu and tempeh with sambal and tapioca, and Indonesian fried rice with a fried egg and crispy onions.
Complementing the food menu, Nusa offers a concise yet enticing beverage selection. Cold Java jasmine tea and red-ginger tea are refreshing options, while fruit juices in flavors like soursop, passion fruit, and dragon fruit provide a burst of tropical sweetness.
Nusa’s website proudly proclaims, ‘Indonesian food is uniquely diverse as it is a fusion of traditions and cooking methods native to the indigenous people and cultures spread across the archipelago.’ The menu draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of Indonesian cuisine, blending Chinese, Indian, Dutch, Portuguese, and Middle Eastern influences. Nusa truly embodies the diversity and richness of Indonesia’s 17,000+ islands.
Currently, Nusa is open for lunch with a limited menu. The grand opening is scheduled for May 15th, when dinner service will be added to the offerings. Located at 5959 Shellmound St. in Emeryville, Nusa is set to become a beloved destination for those seeking the authentic flavors of Indonesia.
