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Ayana Komodo Launches Manggarai Cultural Dining at Waecichu Beach

Ayana Komodo Waecichu Beach has launched “Kisik Seafood & Grill: Living the Heritage,” a weekly cultural dining experience held every Friday and Sunday. Set against the sunset at Waecichu Beach, the event transforms the restaurant into a cultural stage where a seafood BBQ is accompanied by live music, traditional dance, and storytelling. This initiative aims to showcase the cultural depth of Labuan Bajo and the East Nusa Tenggara region, providing guests with an accessible way to engage with Manggarai traditions that are often difficult to experience without private arrangements.

Seafood BBQ platter with lobster and traditional sides
The seafood BBQ highlights local ingredients and traditional spices.

A Beachfront Celebration of Flores Heritage

The experience is designed to immerse visitors in the local atmosphere of Labuan Bajo. By integrating culinary offerings with regional history, the resort provides a platform for the preservation of Manggarai customs. The evening unfolds on the sands of Waecichu Beach, offering a direct connection to the coastal environment that has shaped the region’s identity.

Resort view at sunset overlooking the pier and islands
The experience takes place at sunset on Waecichu Beach.
Aerial view of Ayana Komodo Waecichu Beach and its pier
Ayana Komodo Waecichu Beach serves as the backdrop for the cultural evening.

Traditional Manggarai Performances and Rituals

The program begins with a ceremonial sunset procession inspired by Manggarai customs. Guests are welcomed with the Tiba Meka, a ritual dance representing respect and hospitality. This is followed by Caci, a stylized ritual duel featuring whips, shields, and the rhythmic beats of gongs and drums. The evening also features Rangkuk Alu, a lively bamboo dance that emphasizes precision and coordination, with opportunities for guest participation. Throughout the night, the soft melodies of the Sasando, a traditional string instrument from Rote Island, provide a continuous musical backdrop.

Performers engaged in the Caci ritual duel on the beach
The Caci ritual duel is a centerpiece of the Manggarai performance.
A musician playing the traditional Sasando instrument
The melodic Sasando provides a musical backdrop to the evening.

Coastal Flavors and Authentic Local Cuisine

The culinary offering centers on a set menu designed to highlight the coastal bounty of Flores through charcoal grilling. The meal begins with a fragrant lemongrass seafood soup, followed by fresh fish, squid, shellfish, and shrimp seasoned with traditional spices. Guests can also opt for a premium seafood platter including lobster. Dessert options blend tradition with modern flair, ranging from classic Pisang Goreng (fried bananas) to Moringa Financiers served with raspberry mousse and lemon curd.

Local seafood set including grilled fish and condiments
The menu features charcoal-grilled seafood and authentic local condiments.

Property details

Property
Ayana Komodo Waecichu Beach
Address
Labuan Bajo, Flores, Indonesia
Official site
https://www.ayana.com/labuan-bajo/komodo/
Pricing
IDR 800,000++ per person

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