A small island of Bali, Indonesia, but when it comes to restaurants it is still able to have its say. Thanks to its culinary scene being among the most exciting, innovative, and accompanied by beautiful structures.
As a predominantly Hindu island in a Muslim country, roast suckling pig – commonly called babi guling – is one of the most unexpected dishes, but it’s not the only thing to eat here in Bali. On this splendid island you can taste cuisines from all over the world.
From the beaches of Jimbaran to the forests of Ubud, every corner of Bali seems to offer new flavors and new gastronomic experiences.
Here we tell you about exceptional tables to book in 5 different restaurants in Indonesia.
Alila Seminyak
The Restaurant is the restaurant of the charming Alila Seminyak; the name might sound simple. But in no time the place has earned a reputation as the coolest and coolest restaurant in Bali. The setting couldn’t be more stunning, with the waves crashing on the beach, just a few meters from the lounge. Contrasting with the endless swimming pool behind and the centennial Hindu temple around which the resort was built.
Dutch chef Stefan Zijta oversees the eclectic and international menu built from local raw materials. The result is genuine and spicy flavors. Given the location, the centrality of the fish is not surprising. Try the wave of umami given by the delicious fish to stay.
Cuca
Charismatic Canadian Kevin Cherkas heads Bali’s most popular restaurant, Cuca. Walkthrough the elegant garden and under a palm tree here is a decidedly contemporary space, with plates influenced by Indonesian flavors.
A young brigade in the kitchen that always manages to serve successful dishes, such as local pickled mushrooms with ricotta cream pancakes, clay pot mushrooms with organic Balinese rice. And bbq octopus with Asian apple gazpacho, caramelized cauliflower, and coriander. The biggest surprise? A passable Balinese Pinot Noir that goes with the whole dinner.
Intercontinental Bali Resort
Inside an elegant wing of the resort, just a few meters from the beach and the famous Bali sunset, you will find Bella Cucina. An Italian restaurant in Bali serving regional specialties with some innovative twist and modern presentation. Here you will find Jatiluwih red rice risotto, perfectly paired with lobster braised with white wine and served with peperonata.
The chef is from Milan and his name is Riccardo Ioana; textbook desserts and an enviable carpaccio section close the gastronomic picture.
Locavore
Ranked 49th in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Locavore is led by chefs Ray and Eelke who serve contemporary European cuisine using seasonal ingredients, 95% of which are local.
The restaurant’s garden additionally supplies them with vegetables and herbs, while their staff is not hired based on experience but on the desire to learn. All this creates a truly special place, where food continues to receive praise from customers. Papuan crab is served with a lightly spiced cream, while their dish Into the Sawah mixes high-quality rice from central Bali, with snails, garlic, and egg cooked at 64 degrees.
Mozaic Restaurant
The tropical ambiance for the Mozaic Restaurant Gastronomique. Here is the full name of the restaurant, demonstrating the ambition of the French-American chef Chris Salans. Its tasting menus – 6 or 8 courses – feature Western ingredients such as foie gras and salmon, which contrast with local raw materials, such as Balinese Jack Fruit or Javanese Pomelo.
