
Atelier Binchotan’s First Southeast Asian Pop-Up Showcases Shared Passion for Open-Fire Cooking
Pop-up collaborations have transformed from mere guest chef appearances into powerful platforms for culinary innovation, brand storytelling, and professional development. These dynamic partnerships offer diners fresh experiences, amplify restaurant visibility, and cultivate growth within kitchen teams—collectively enriching the local food landscape.
ABSteak by Chef Akira Back’s “Beyond the Plate” program captures this progressive spirit. The initiative gained momentum in early 2025 following the appointment of Chef William Rusli as Corporate Executive Chef of Akira Back Group Indonesia. Drawing from an impressive resume—spanning Joël Robuchon Macau, Amuz Group Jakarta, and leading roles in the group’s Riyadh and Bangkok branches—Chef Rusli brings a network of global culinary excellence to the forefront.
Joining him is Executive Pastry Chef Sharon Augustine, a Jakarta newcomer with credentials from Janice Wong MGM COTAI and Akira Back Group Riyadh. Her creative collaborations with Chef Rusli are a defining feature of the “Beyond the Plate” experience.
The inaugural edition, Beyond the Plate Vol.1, launched on 22 May 2025 with guest chef Yohans Gozal of YOUNG. Known for a modern twist on Thai grill cuisine, YOUNG has infused new energy into Jakarta’s F&B scene. Chef Yohans—whose experience spans Singapore hotspots like DB Bistro, Santi (MBS), Kilo, and BAM!, as well as Bali’s Merah Putih and Sangsaka—brings a collaborative spirit that aligns with ABSteak’s ethos of creative exchange across disciplines.
In June, “Beyond the Plate Vol.2” introduced a daring partnership with Atelier Binchotan from Kuala Lumpur. The Michelin-Selected barbecue bistronomy, named among Tatler’s Best 20 Restaurants in Malaysia for 2025, makes its Jakarta debut with a bang. Founded by Chef Ka Hong Lau (formerly of Atelier de Joël Robuchon and Restaurant André) and Celine Chong, Atelier Binchotan blends French finesse with bold fire-grilling in an immersive open-kitchen experience.
YOUNG returns for this edition, offering its Thai grill flair to complement Atelier Binchotan’s flame-focused techniques—resulting in a three-way exploration of fire, flavor, and philosophy.
ABSteak by Chef Akira Back
T: +62 852 91919887
Ig: @absteakjakarta
About YOUNG
Location: Jl. Wijaya II No.42, South Jakarta
T: +62 811 1180 0187
Ig: @young.restaurant