Looking for the best restaurants Bali has to offer? Our guide covers top dining spots around the island, from Seminyak to Ubud. Discover good food and unique dining experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Seminyak, Ubud, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Sanur are Bali hotspots with standout restaurants offering a mix of local and international cuisines.
- Unique dining experiences across Bali include sustainability-focused outlets, cliffside views, historical settings like The Cave, and immersive tasting menus.
- From casual beachside spots to fine dining establishments, Bali’s culinary scene caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences, making it a top destination for food lovers.
Seminyak’s Culinary Gems
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Seminyak, one of Bali’s most vibrant areas, is home to some of the best restaurants on the island, offering diverse and trendy dining experiences. From contemporary seafood fusion to modern Indonesian cuisine, Seminyak’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or a place to enjoy a casual meal with friends, you’ll find it here.
One of the standout restaurants in Seminyak is Seasalt, known for its contemporary fusion of seafood dishes. Another gem is Breeze at Samaya, which serves a variety of Asian and International cuisine, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. For those who prefer a mix of international, Asian, and healthy Indonesian dishes, BKeto Bali is the place to be. And if you’re in the mood for Indonesian cuisine with a modern twist, Merah Putih won’t disappoint.
Must-try dishes in Seminyak include prawn fried rice with softshell crab at Sangsaka, flatbread tacos at Neon Palms, and Birria De Res Tacos at Motel Mexicola. These dishes showcase the rich flavors and culinary creativity that make Seminyak one of Bali’s best dining destinations.
Next, we’ll explore some of Seminyak’s culinary highlights, starting with Barbacoa, Sangsaka, and Ijen.
Barbacoa
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Barbacoa offers an asado-style dining experience that is truly unique in Seminyak. Imagine whole pigs roasted over charcoal, bringing an authentic and rich flavour to the meat. The restaurant also serves quick-grilled seafood, adding to the variety and freshness of their menu.
The ambiance at Barbacoa is warm and inviting, with a dining room that exudes rustic charm. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration with friends. As you savour dishes like fish tacos and steak tartare, you’ll appreciate the attention to detail and the use of locally sourced ingredients.
Barbacoa’s commitment to delivering an exquisite dining experience makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring Seminyak’s culinary scene. Whether you’re seated at the chef’s table or enjoying a drink at the cocktail bar, you’re in for a treat.
Sangsaka
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Sangsaka is a popular eatery in Seminyak that serves delicious Indonesian classics. One of the must-try dishes here is the prawn fried rice with softshell crab, a delightful combination of flavours and textures that will leave you wanting more.
The restaurant’s warm and casual atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. If you’re looking to experience authentic Indonesian cuisine in Seminyak, Sangsaka is a great choice.
Ijen
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For those who prioritize sustainability, Ijen is a must-visit. Located at Potato Head Beach Club, this eco-friendly restaurant offers sustainable fresh seafood dishes, including fresh oysters, that are both delicious and environmentally conscious. A must-try dish at Ijen is the clams cooked in citrus vinegar and avocado cream, a perfect example of their innovative culinary approach.
The restaurant’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and unique raw preparations makes it a standout in Seminyak’s dining scene.
Ubud’s Exquisite Dining Experience
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Ubud, often referred to as the sacred heart of Bali, is renowned for its refined dining experiences. The town offers some of the island’s most innovative tasting menus and exquisite dining settings, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. From the innovative tasting menu at Locavore NXT to the all-dessert concept at Room4Dessert, Ubud’s culinary scene is both diverse and inspiring.
One of the highlights of dining in Ubud is the use of local ingredients and modern cooking techniques to create unforgettable flavours. Restaurants like Locavore NXT showcase the best of what Ubud has to offer with their progressive approach to dining. Meanwhile, Room4Dessert takes a unique approach by focusing entirely on desserts, offering a 15-course dessert tasting menu that is both creative and delicious.
In addition to these innovative dining experiences, Ubud is also home to restaurants like Mozaic, which blends Indonesian flavours with molecular gastronomy to create a truly unique culinary experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, Ubud has something for everyone.
Next, we’ll delve into some of Ubud’s top dining spots, starting with Locavore NXT, Room4Dessert, and Mozaic.
Locavore NXT
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Locavore NXT is a standout restaurant in Ubud, offering a unique 20-course tasting menu that features locally grown ingredients and modern cooking techniques. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of ingredients grown in a rooftop food forest, subterranean mushroom vault, and koji fermentation lab, as well as their selection of natural wines.
The dining experience at Locavore NXT is progressive, with courses served in various intimate locations within the building, enhancing the overall ambiance. The architecture, with floor-to-ceiling glass overlooking rice fields, adds to the restaurant’s charm and provides a stunning backdrop for the meal.
Locavore NXT’s innovative approach and dedication to using local ingredients make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Ubud’s culinary scene.
Room4Dessert
Source: room4dessert.com
Room4Dessert is a unique dining spot in Ubud, dedicated entirely to desserts. The restaurant offers a 15-course dessert tasting menu that employs garden-fresh ingredients and native plants, resulting in avant-garde desserts that are both a unique tasting experience and visually stunning.
The intimate dining room and the creative presentation of each dish make Room4Dessert a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast or simply looking for a unique dining experience, Room4Dessert is sure to impress.
Mozaic
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Mozaic in Ubud is known for its innovative approach to blending Indonesian flavours with molecular gastronomy. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines local ingredients with advanced culinary techniques, resulting in dishes that are both flavourful and beautifully presented.
The magical setting, with a glass dining room that enhances the overall experience, makes Mozaic a standout restaurant in Ubud. If you’re looking to explore the best of Indonesian cuisine in a refined and innovative way, Mozaic is the place to be.
Canggu’s Trendy Spots
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Canggu, with its laid-back vibe and surf culture, is a hotspot for trendy dining experiences. The area offers an eclectic mix of culinary offerings, including:
- Fire-powered cooking at Skool Kitchen
- Tasty Indonesian dishes at Ulekan
- Mediterranean cuisine
- South American flavors
- Party Dining at Monsoon
Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Indonesian food or a refreshing Mediterranean dish, Canggu has something to satisfy every palate.
One of the standout spots in Canggu is Skool Kitchen, known for its fire-powered cooking and dishes like Wagyu rib eye and octopus with salsa verde. Another popular restaurant is Ulekan, which serves traditional Indonesian dishes like the all time favourite, nasi goreng, beef cheek rendang and barramundi cooked in banana leaves. These restaurants showcase the rich flavours and diverse culinary influences that make Canggu a must-visit for food lovers.
In addition to these culinary gems, Canggu is also home to trendy spots like Kong, Shelter Restaurant, Times Beach Warung and Monsoon at FINNS Beach Club. Each of these restaurants offers a unique dining experience, making them worth a visit.
Next, we’ll examine some of Canggu’s trendy locations, starting with Kong, Shelter Restaurant, Times Beach Warung and Monsoon party dining at FINNS Beach Club.
Kong
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Kong is a trendy restaurant in Canggu that emphasises European-styled dishes with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients, including coconut milk, organic vegetables and plant based options. One of the must-try dishes at Kong is the vegetarian lasagna with tempeh bolognese, basil, and triple-cheese bechamel sauce, a delightful combination of flavours and textures.
The restaurant’s chic and modern ambiance, combined with its commitment to using fresh and local produce, makes Kong a popular dining spot in Canggu. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a special dinner, Kong is sure to impress.
Shelter Restaurant
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Shelter Restaurant in Canggu offers a unique blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. The menu includes dishes like edamame falafel with tabouleh and chermoula-crusted chicken, providing a diverse and flavourful dining experience.
One of the must-try items at Shelter is the warm za’atar pretzel paired with house labneh cheese, a perfect starter to any meal. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Times Beach Warung
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Times Beach Warung is the epitome of casual beachside dining in Canggu. Known for its laid-back vibe, this spot is perfect for enjoying a relaxed meal while taking in the ocean views. Popular dishes include the flavourful satay skewers and the ever-popular fish tacos, which are a hit among both locals and tourists.
The atmosphere at Times Beach Warung is unbeatable, making it an ideal place to unwind with friends or family. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely lunch or dinner, this Canggu gem offers a dining experience that includes:
- a relaxed and laid-back vibe
- stunning beach views
- delicious and affordable food
- friendly and attentive staff
It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the area’s relaxed lifestyle.
Monsoon at FINNS Beach Club
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If you are seeking a unique experience combining dining and entertainment as never seen before in Bali then a visit to Monsoon is a must! Take part in Bali’s most iconic party dining experience as you embark on a mouthwatering journey around the world with an extraordinary selection of 10 different international cuisines, each crafted to perfection.
From the fiery spices of Mexico to the delicate sushi rolls of Japan, the diverse menu offers something for every palate. Savour the aromatic spices of India, sizzling flavours of Asia and hearty comfort food of Italy. With expert chefs at the helm, enjoy an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
Start with drinks at sunset and continue to party into the evening as the entertainment ramps up with live singers, DJs, dancers, iconic performers. Monsoon is more than just a restaurant, its a total experience.
Jimbaran’s Luxurious Dining
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Jimbaran Bay is synonymous with luxurious dining, offering sophisticated atmospheres and refined cuisine that cater to the most discerning palates. The area is home to some of Bali’s best restaurants, each providing an exquisite dining experience.
At Rumari, guests can embark on a nine-course exploration of Indonesian cuisine, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the archipelago. Meanwhile, Cuca is known for its creative tapas, diverse desserts, and signature lobster roll, making it a must-visit for those seeking inventive comfort food in a relaxed beachside setting.
In addition to Rumari and Cuca, Jimbaran also boasts other luxurious dining spots that offer a variety of culinary experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner or a sophisticated tasting menu, Jimbaran’s dining scene has something for everyone.
Next, we’ll examine some of Jimbaran’s top dining spots, starting with Rumari and Cuca.
Rumari
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Rumari is celebrated for its nine-course tasting menus that provide an immersive exploration of Indonesian flavours. Each course is meticulously curated to highlight the rich culinary heritage of the Indonesian archipelago, using 80% locally sourced ingredients to ensure freshness and authenticity.
Their extensive wine collection features over 250 labels, paying homage to the classics as well as selections from independent winemakers around the globe.
The restaurant’s elegant setting and commitment to showcasing Indonesian cuisine make it a standout in Jimbaran’s dining scene. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply looking to experience the best of Indonesian food, Rumari offers an unforgettable dining experience.
Cuca
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Cuca, with its relaxed beachside atmosphere, is the perfect place to enjoy creative tapas and diverse desserts. You should definitely try the signature lobster roll here, which is served warm and buttered in a fresh sesame bun with generous chunks of lobster and a delicious lemon mayonnaise. It’s a must-have dish at this restaurant.
The restaurant’s inventive approach to comfort food, designed for sharing and bursting with flavour, makes Cuca a favourite among food lovers. Whether you’re visiting for a casual meal or a special occasion, Cuca’s unique offerings are sure to impress.
Uluwatu’s Cliffside Cuisine
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Uluwatu is renowned for its dramatic cliffside views and legendary sunsets, making it a prime destination for unforgettable dining experiences. The area’s restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, each with a unique twist that complements the stunning surroundings.
Ours Uluwatu stands out for its commitment to sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices into its dining experience. Bartolo offers delectable European cuisine with bold flavours, while La Terrazza serves up Italian dishes with signature desserts, all set against breathtaking cliffside views.
Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, Uluwatu’s culinary scene has something to offer. Next, we’ll delve into some of the top dining spots in Uluwatu, starting with Ours Uluwatu, Bartolo, and La Terrazza.
Ours Uluwatu
Ours Uluwatu is a standout restaurant that incorporates sustainable produce in its dishes, reflecting a commitment to eco-friendly dining practices. A must-try dish at Ours Uluwatu is the avocado on toast topped with feta, watercress, and confit cherry tomatoes, a delightful blend of flavours that highlights the restaurant’s culinary creativity.
The restaurant’s focus on sustainability and fresh, local ingredients makes it a favourite among eco-conscious diners. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast or a relaxed dinner, Ours Uluwatu offers a dining experience that aligns with the natural beauty of its surroundings.
Bartolo
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Bartolo is a European-style bistro located in Uluwatu, known for offering delectable European cuisine with stunning cliffside views. One of the must-try dishes at Bartolo is the rigatoni pasta with sautéed eggplant, a flavorful and hearty dish that showcases the restaurant’s expertise in European cooking.
The combination of bold flavours and a breathtaking setting makes Bartolo a must-visit for anyone exploring Uluwatu’s culinary scene. Whether you’re dining for a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal with friends, Bartolo offers an exquisite dining experience.
La Terrazza
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La Terrazza is an Italian restaurant in Uluwatu that offers stunning cliffside views and a menu filled with delicious Italian dishes. The signature dessert at La Terrazza is the affogato al caffe, featuring a scoop of vanilla and bourbon gelato with a shot of fresh espresso, a perfect way to end a meal.
The restaurant’s combination of exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views makes it a standout in Uluwatu’s dining scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends, La Terrazza offers a dining experience that is both memorable and delightful.
Sanur’s Coastal Flavors
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Sanur, with its coastal charm and diverse culinary scene, offers a wide range of dining experiences that cater to every taste. From fresh Mexican fusion at Warung Sanur Segar to the famous pork ribs and martinis at Naughty Nuri’s Sanur, this area is a food lover’s paradise.
One of the standout spots in Sanur is Naughty Nuri’s, known for its mouthwatering pork ribs and signature martinis, which have been praised by Chef Anthony Bourdain. Another popular restaurant is Jalapeño, offering upmarket tacos, tequila, and locally sourced cocktails. For those looking for a vegan-friendly menu with beach views, Genius Cafe is the place to be.
Sanur’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Bali’s dining offerings. Next, we’ll examine some of the top dining spots in Sanur, starting with Naughty Nuri’s Sanur, Jalapeño, and Genius Cafe.
Naughty Nuri’s Sanur
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Naughty Nuri’s in Sanur is famous for its mouthwatering pork ribs, which are a must-try for any meat lover visiting Bali. The restaurant is also known for its signature martinis, which have been praised by Chef Anthony Bourdain as the best outside of New York.
The combination of delicious food and a lively atmosphere makes Naughty Nuri’s restaurant a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re visiting for a casual meal or a special occasion, the restaurant’s offerings are sure to impress.
Jalapeño
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Jalapeño in Sanur is best known for serving upmarket tacos, tequila, and locally sourced cocktails. Popular starters include guacamole and crispy battered jalapenos, which are perfect for sharing with friends.
A must-try at Jalapeño is the spicy margarita ‘Los Jalapeno’, which perfectly complements the restaurant’s vibrant and flavourful dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a night out, Jalapeño offers a dining experience that is both fun and delicious.
Genius Cafe
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Genius Cafe is a vegan-friendly spot in Sanur that offers beach views and a holistic approach to dining. The restaurant’s menu accommodates all dietary requirements, with standout dishes like the ‘Three Heavenly Dips’ featuring hummus, beetroot, baba ganoush, olives, and warm bread. The Genius Zinger Burger is packed full of vegetables offering plant based goodness in every bite.
The combination of delicious food, stunning views, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Genius Cafe a must-visit for anyone exploring Sanur’s culinary scene. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian or simply looking to enjoy a healthy and flavourful meal, Genius Cafe has something for everyone.
Fine Dining Highlights
Bali’s fine dining scene is marked by world-class restaurants that offer a diverse range of exquisite culinary experiences. From the degustation menu at Apéritif to European techniques applied to Latin American ingredients at Santanera, Bali’s fine dining offerings are sure to impress even the most discerning food lovers.
At Apéritif, you can enjoy a fine-dining degustation menu that blends European classics with subtle Indonesian flavors, creating a unique and memorable dining experience. Kubu at Mandapa offers Mediterranean-European cuisine served in a tranquil bamboo setting by the river, making it a perfect spot for special occasions.
Next, we’ll explore some of Bali’s top fine dining spots, starting with Apéritif and Kubu at Mandapa,
Apéritif
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Apéritif, one of Balis best restaurants, offering a fine-dining degustation menu that features a blend of European classics and subtle Indonesian flavors, creating a unique and memorable dining experience. The restaurant’s black and white 1930s influenced design contrasts beautifully with the surrounding jungle atmosphere, enhancing the overall ambiance.
Guests can choose from a vegetarian and a signature degustation menu, with notable dishes like the red snapper in gulai sauce. The Avant Garde degustation menu also includes a wine pairing option, allowing diners to enjoy a complete culinary journey.
Before dinner, guests are sometimes offered a complimentary cocktail and canapés at the bar, adding an extra touch of elegance to the dining experience with a carefully curated drinks menu and extensive wine list.
Kubu at Mandapa
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Kubu at Mandapa offers a unique dining atmosphere set in a bamboo cocoon by the river, providing a tranquil and romantic setting for any meal. The restaurant’s Mediterranean-European cuisine is beautifully presented and crafted with the finest ingredients, making it a wonderful choice for international food and a unique fine dining experience in Bali.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to enjoy an exquisite meal, Kubu at Mandapa offers a dining experience unlike any other. The combination of stunning surroundings and exceptional cuisine makes this hidden gem a must-visit for anyone exploring Bali’s fine dining scene.
Unique Dining Experiences
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Bali offers a range of unique dining venues that go beyond just great food, providing extraordinary atmospheres and settings for unforgettable meals. Among the best restaurants in Bali, you can find options like dining 50 metres above the ground at Lounge In The Sky for those feeling adventurous or experiencing Bali’s first aquarium restaurant at Koral Restaurant. These unique dining experiences add an extra layer of excitement to your culinary journey.
Rock Bar Bali, located at Ayana Resort, features a cliffside inclinator and custom DJ booth carved into rocks, offering sunset views that are truly spectacular. Kisik Restaurant at Ayana Resort offers seafood dining with tables right on the beach and a pier for a romantic experience.
Merlin’s Magic in Ubud provides a mystical dining atmosphere with unique decor and an Oracle Experience menu, while Frankensteins Laboratory in Seminyak offers a horror-themed dining experience with daily horror cabaret shows. These unique dining spots showcase the creativity and diversity of Bali’s culinary scene.
Next, we’ll delve into some of Bali’s most unique dining experiences, starting with The Cave, Sokasi, and The Long Table Lunch at John Hardy.
The Cave
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The Cave is a unique subterranean restaurant located inside a 25,000-year-old natural cave discovered in 2013. The restaurant offers modern cuisine with a 7 or 10-course menu prepared by chef Ryan Clift, providing an intimate and immersive dining experience.
Patterns are projected onto the cave walls between courses, creating an immersive visual experience that enhances the overall dining atmosphere. With a seating capacity of just 22 guests, The Cave caters to those seeking a truly unique and intimate dining experience when visiting Bali.
Sokasi
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Sokasi at Four Seasons Sayan offers a unique riverside bamboo pavilion, providing an intimate and serene dining setting. The chef’s table experience at Sokasi focuses on exploring Balinese heritage dishes, which are traditionally cooked for Bali’s ceremonial and festive occasions, often featuring sweet soy sauce.
The combination of a beautiful setting and traditional Balinese cuisine makes Sokasi a standout dining experience in Bali. Whether you’re looking to learn more about Balinese food or simply enjoy a delicious meal, Sokasi offers an unforgettable culinary journey.
The Long Table Lunch at John Hardy
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The Long Table at John Hardy offers a family-style feast with a menu that changes monthly, featuring unique dishes from across Indonesia using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Each course is presented by the chef at the chef’s table, who explains every dish in detail, adding an educational element to the dining experience.
The beautiful and relaxing setting, combined with the delicious food and notable wine list, makes The Long Table a must-visit for anyone exploring Bali’s unique dining experiences. Whether you’re dining with family or friends, The Long Table offers a memorable and enjoyable meal.
Summary
Bali’s culinary scene is as diverse and exciting as the island itself. From the trendy eateries of Seminyak to the refined dining experiences in Ubud, the eclectic spots in Canggu, the luxurious restaurants in Jimbaran, and the cliffside cuisines of Uluwatu, Bali offers something for every food lover. Each region has its unique charm and culinary offerings, making it a paradise for those seeking new and delicious experiences.
Whether you’re craving traditional Indonesian dishes or looking to indulge in a sophisticated tasting menu, Bali’s top restaurants have you covered. The island’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and innovative cooking techniques ensures that every meal is a memorable one.
So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a culinary journey through Bali. With its diverse dining experiences and breathtaking settings, Bali is sure to impress and inspire food lovers from around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-try dishes in Seminyak?
You must try prawn fried rice with softshell crab at Sangsaka, flatbread tacos at Neon Palms, and Birria De Res Tacos at Motel Mexicola when in Seminyak. Enjoy!
What makes Ubud’s dining scene unique?
Ubud’s dining scene is unique because of its innovative tasting menus, use of local ingredients, and refined dining settings, offering unforgettable culinary experiences. Enjoy!
What are the standout dishes at Naughty Nuri’s Sanur?
The standout dishes at Naughty Nuri’s Sanur are the mouthwatering pork ribs and signature martinis, which have received high praise from Chef Anthony Bourdain. So, make sure to try them out when you visit!
What makes The Cave a unique dining experience?
The Cave offers a unique dining experience because it is located in a 25,000-year-old natural cave and provides an immersive visual experience with pattern projections on the cave walls. It gives a whole new meaning to dining in a one-of-a-kind setting.
What can I expect from the dining experience at The Long Table Lunch at John Hardy?
You can expect a family-style feast with a monthly changing menu featuring unique dishes from Indonesia. The chef presents each course and explains every dish in detail, adding an educational element to the dining experience. Enjoy!
