Bungkus Bagus
Bungkus Bagus was founded by sisters Celene and Tara Carrara, who grew up immersed in the vibrant culture and rich culinary traditions of Bali, Indonesia. With their formative years spent in a place known for its artistic heart and exceptional food, the sisters learned the art of Indonesian cooking from their Ibus. However, their professional lives initially took different paths—Celene as a doula and Tara as a makeup artist.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, both found themselves without work and back under the same roof in Los Angeles for the first time in a decade. Exploring the city, they stumbled upon ingredients that reminded them of home: fresh galangal, long beans, and banana leaves. This serendipitous discovery sparked an idea: to recreate the beloved dishes of their childhood and share them with the LA community.
With restaurants closed and a desire to reconnect with their heritage, the sisters launched Bungkus Bagus, which means "Good Package." They began by selling 100 banana leaf bundles filled with rice, curry, and veggies, quickly winning over customers with their authentic flavors and heartfelt approach. Today, Bungkus Bagus stands as a tribute to Bali's culture and cuisine, offering Angelenos a taste of the island's spirit through thoughtfully prepared, delicious meals.