Bali, a lush Indonesian paradise, is as much a haven for gourmet travelers as it is for surfers and spiritual seekers. The island’s culinary scene is a vibrant mosaic of flavors, where traditional Indonesian spices meet innovative dining concepts. In this review, we journey through four of Bali’s most distinguished eateries, each offering a unique gastronomic adventure that promises to delight your palate and enrich your travel experience. From intimate omakase settings enveloped by rainforest to artistic venues that blend cuisine with culture, these top restaurants of Bali redefine dining in the tropics.
Api Jiwa
Nestled in the heart of Capella Ubud, the award-winning luxury tented camp, Api Jiwa offers more than just a meal; it delivers a full-sensory dining encounter. This intimate-seat restaurant, meaning ‘fire to the soul’ in Sanskrit, lives up to its name with an omakase-style menu that dazzles with bold, refined Asian flavors. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Nicola Russo, diners are treated to a bespoke dining experience, where each dish is tailored to personal tastes and explained personally, creating an interactive, farm-to-table spectacle.
The restaurant’s setting contributes significantly to its charm. The decor is a rich tapestry of Dutch and Balinese elements, with antiques and artifacts that transport you back to the 1800s. The open grill kitchen, surrounded by a dining counter for ten, is the centerpiece, allowing diners to witness the magic as it happens. Offering ten to twelve courses, the meal unfolds as a culinary journey, featuring hand-harvested ingredients and fresh seafood, culminating in show-stopping desserts. It’s an epicurean adventure that combines luxury, culture, and nature in every bite.
The new service of complimentary return transportation from Ubud is available. The service extends to a maximum distance of 15 km from Capella Ubud. 24-hour advance reservation is recommended.
Address: Banjar Triwangsa, Jl. RY Dalem, Keliki, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar
Phone: +62 361 2091888
Website, Instagram
Il Ristorante – Luca Fantin
Il Ristorante – Luca Fantin at the Bulgari Resort Bali offers an exquisite dining experience, marrying classic Italian cuisine with local, organic ingredients. Since its inception in 2017, this intimate 36-seat restaurant has captivated guests with its seductive ambiance overlooking a reflection pool. Executive Chef Luca Fantin, renowned for his fresh interpretations of Italian classics, delivers visually stunning and flavor-packed dishes that fuse tradition with innovation. The wine list, boasting predominantly Italian labels and an exceptional Champagne selection, complements the culinary journey perfectly.
Resident Head Chef Alessandro Mazzali, handpicked by Chef Fantin, brings his expertise to the table, ensuring a seamless continuation of the restaurant’s culinary philosophy. The seasonal tasting menu, featuring local and international ingredients, offers a symphony of flavors that celebrate the essence of spring in Bali. A highlight is the Javanese crayfish with white asparagus, Beluga caviar, and saffron zabaglione, showcasing Italian cuisine with an Eastern twist. Il Ristorante – Luca Fantin is not just a dining destination; it’s a culinary journey that delights the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
Address: Bulgari Resort Bali, Jl. Goa Lempeh, Banjar Dinas Kangin, Uluwatu, Kabupaten Badung
Phone: +62 815-1403-8549
Website, Instagram
Hoshinoya Bali
For those seeking a tranquil dining experience that embraces Balinese culture, Hoshinoya Bali presents the Bali Harmony Set Course and NUSANTARA Dinner Set. This resort excels in providing an immersive experience that blends local culinary traditions with elegant Japanese influences. The dining area overlooks the lush surroundings of Ubud, offering a serene backdrop to an exquisite meal.
The Bali Harmony Set Course is a celebration of local flavors, meticulously plated to please both the eye and the palate. The set is inspired by the local ethos of living in balance with nature, featuring dishes that incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding environments. Meanwhile, the NUSANTARA Dinner Set takes guests on a deeper exploration of Indonesian cuisine, with dishes that showcase the rich diversity of the archipelago’s culinary heritage. Each meal at Hoshinoya Bali is a delicate balance of flavors, prepared with precision and served with a deep respect for traditional methods and ingredients.
Address: Jl. Pengembungan, Pejeng Kangin, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar
Phone: +62 361 8493080
Website, Instagram
Morabito Art Villa
Located in the trendy Canggu area, Morabito Art Villa is more than just a dining destination; it’s a cultural immersion. The venue combines a luxury stay with an artistic dining experience, surrounded by breathtaking ocean views and eclectic art pieces. The menu features a variety of international and local dishes, prepared with a focus on fresh, local ingredients that highlight the flavors of Bali.
The ambiance of Morabito Art Villa is unmatched, with its art-filled spaces and elegant, beachfront setting. Dining here is not just about the food; it’s about experiencing the artistic heart of Bali, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Address: Jl. Pantai Brawa, Canggu, Kuta Utara, Tibubeneng
Phone: +62 821-1717-4646
Website, Instagram
Miss Fish
Strategically situated in the vibrant Berawa area of Canggu, Miss Fish is a Japanese culinary gem that specializes in hand-rolled sushi, meticulously crafted in the traditional edomae style. Each roll reflects a perfect balance of authenticity and innovation, showcasing the restaurant’s dedication to Japanese culinary tradition.
Complementing the exceptional sushi menu is a selection of expertly crafted cocktails, curated by talented mixologists, to elevate the dining experience to new heights. With its focus on simplicity, pureness, and tradition, Miss Fish offers a dining experience that transcends mere meals, leaving guests craving more of its exquisite offerings. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or a cocktail enthusiast, Miss Fish promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey that celebrates the best of Japanese culture with delicate touches from around the world.
Address: Jl. Raya Semat No.4, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung
Phone: +62 813-9000-6477
Website, Instagram
Wild Ginger
Wild Ginger, nestled within the Nandini Jungle Resort, offers a culinary journey through Indonesia’s rich flavor palette. The restaurant specializes in traditional Indonesian cuisine, made from locally sourced ingredients that ensure each dish is bursting with authentic flavors. The setting, surrounded by the dense jungle of Ubud, adds an exotic touch to the dining experience, making it both a visual and sensory delight.
From spicy sambals to rich, coconut-based curries, the menu at Wild Ginger is a testament to the island’s culinary traditions. Each dish is carefully crafted to represent the diverse culinary landscape of Indonesia, providing diners with a taste of local culture and tradition in a stunning natural environment.
Address: Br. Susut, Buahan, Kec. Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar
Phone: +62 812-3687-1170
Website, Instagram
This roundup of top restaurants of Bali handpicked by Chic Icon showcases the island’s diverse culinary offerings and its commitment to providing unique dining experiences that are deeply rooted in local culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, these restaurants promise to make your visit to Bali deliciously unforgettable.
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